The Head of Operations for a Movie Studio Wants to Determine

question 160

Multiple Choice

The head of operations for a movie studio wants to determine which of two new scripts they should select for their next major production. (Due to budgeting constraints, only one new picture can be undertaken at this time.) She feels that script 1 has a 70 percent chance of earning about $10,000,000 over the long run, but a 30 percent chance of losing $2,000,000. If this movie is successful, then a sequel could also be produced, with an 80 percent chance of earning $5,000,000, but a 20 percent chance of losing $1,000,000. On the other hand, she feels that script 2 has a 60 percent chance of earning $12,000,000, but a 40 percent chance of losing $3,000,000. If successful, its sequel would have a 50 percent chance of earning $8,000,000, but a 50 percent chance of losing $4,000,000. Of course, in either case, if the original movie were a flop, then no sequel would be produced.
What would be the total payoff if script 1 were a success, but its sequel were not?

• A)$15,000,000
• B)$10,000,000
• C)$9,000,000
• D)$5,000,000
• E)$−1,000,000

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Definitions:

Business Organization

A structured entity set up by individuals or shareholders to engage in business activities, usually for profit.

Death Of A Partner

An event in a partnership business that triggers the need to re-evaluate and possibly restructure the business agreement due to the passing away of one of the partners.

Remaining Cash

The amount of cash a business has available after all expenses and liabilities have been paid.

Partnership Agreement

A legal document that outlines the rights, responsibilities, and profit and loss distribution among partners in a business venture.