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:

Consolidate

In financial context, to combine assets, liabilities, and other financial items of two or more entities into one.

Consolidated Balance Sheet

A financial statement that aggregates all assets, liabilities, and equity of a parent company and its subsidiaries, presenting the financial position of the entire group.

Subsidiary

A company that is controlled by another company, referred to as the parent company.

Loaned

Refers to money or assets that have been lent to another party under an agreement to be repaid, often with interest.