AllMovie: The Evolution of a Comprehensive Film Database
In the landscape of digital entertainment archives, AllMovie stands as a significant resource for cinema enthusiasts and industry professionals alike. Founded by popular-culture archivist Michael Erlewine—who also established AllMusic and AllGame—AllMovie was designed to be a definitive repository of cinematic knowledge.
The Foundation and Capabilities of the Database
From its inception, AllMovie was built to be comprehensive. The database provides a wide array of product information, including cast and production credits, plot synopses, professional reviews, and detailed biographies. To enhance discoverability, the system utilizes relational links, allowing users to navigate between connected films, actors, and creators.
Beyond its consumer-facing website, the AllMovie database was licensed to tens of thousands of retailers and distributors. This data powered point-of-sale systems, kiosks, and various websites. Additionally, the data was integrated into the AMG LASSO media recognition service, a technology capable of automatically recognizing DVDs.
Ownership Transitions and Corporate History
The ownership of AllMovie has shifted through several major corporate acquisitions. In late 2007, the TiVo Corporation acquired AMG (All Music Guide) for a reported $72 million.
By August 2013, Rovi sold the consumer-facing web properties—including AllMovie, AllMusic, and AllGame—to All Media Network, LLC. This acquisition group included the original founders of SideReel and investor Mike Ackrell from Ackrell Capital.
| Period/Date | Event | Key Entity Involved |
|---|---|---|
| Foundation | Creation of AllMovie, AllMusic, and AllGame | Michael Erlewine |
| Late 2007 | Acquisition of AMG for $72 million | TiVo Corporation |
| August 2013 | Sale of web properties to All Media Network, LLC | Rovi / All Media Network |
| Spring 2024 | Migration to a new data provider | AllMovie |
Modern Updates and Feature Changes
In the spring of 2024, AllMovie underwent a significant transition by moving to a different data provider. This shift resulted in both the addition of new utility features and the removal of legacy content.
The site introduced a collections feature, which allows users to organize films into thematic groups, such as grouping the Star Wars films under the "Skywalker Saga." Additionally, the platform now provides information on where films can be streamed. However, as part of this transition, AllMovie removed professional reviews and DVD-specific information from its listings.
Key Facts
- Founder: Established by Michael Erlewine, who also founded AllMusic and AllGame.
- Scope: Includes cast/production credits, plot synopses, and relational links.
- Acquisition: TiVo Corporation purchased AMG in 2007 for $72 million.
- Current Ownership: Sold to All Media Network, LLC in 2013.
- Recent Changes: Added streaming info and film collections in 2024, while removing professional reviews and DVD data.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who founded AllMovie?
AllMovie was founded by Michael Erlewine, a popular-culture archivist who also created AllMusic and AllGame.
What happened to the professional reviews on AllMovie?
Following a move to a new data provider in the spring of 2024, professional reviews were removed from the site.
How did TiVo become involved with AllMovie?
TiVo Corporation acquired AMG, the parent entity of AllMovie, in late 2007 for a reported $72 million.
What is the "collections" feature introduced in 2024?
The collections feature allows users to organize movies into specific series or groups, such as the "Skywalker Saga" for Star Wars films.
Can I still find DVD information on AllMovie?
No, DVD information was removed from the platform during the data provider transition in early 2024.