AceShowbiz - Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav has expressed concern over the disappointing box office results of "Joker: Folie a Deux". Released last month with a reported budget of $200 million, the film has grossed only $204.7 million globally.

"Inconsistency also remains an issue at our motion picture studio, as reinforced recently by the disappointing results of 'Joker 2'," Zaslav stated during an analyst call. However, he also noted that the studio has achieved some successes this year, including "Beetlejuice Beetlejuice" and "Barbie".

Despite the setbacks, Zaslav emphasized that Warner Bros. Discovery's television studio is on track to have its most profitable year in scripted content in the last five years. "Even in an industry of hits and misses, we must acknowledge that our studios business must deliver more consistency," he said.

The CEO also addressed the underperforming gaming unit, stating that the company has an opportunity to improve its stability. He hailed the success of HBO's "The Penguin" series as an example of content that can shape culture and become appointment viewing.

CFO Gunnar Wiedenfels expressed optimism about a rebound for the studios business, highlighting the company's integrated approach and the potential for long-term growth. "We've made a ton of progress. We’re also still in the early innings, so we are definitely getting a return here from running WBD as one integrated company," he said.

Zaslav concluded by reiterating his commitment to improving green light governance and franchise management in the motion picture studio. "This is a business where translating operational changes into results takes time, but I believe we'll see those strategic shifts deliver improved outcomes in the coming years," he said.