What does a film or TV licensing deal give the buyer?
A licence gives the buyer permission to use specified rights. A streaming service can secure the right to show a series without buying the series or its producer.
Reading the rights that changed hands
Suppose a buyer acquires exclusive subscription streaming rights in Germany for two years. The announcement answers where, how and for how long that buyer may show the title. It tells you nothing by itself about cinema, airline or remake rights.
Does the announced deal value equal this year’s revenue?
The headline alone cannot tell you. Check the rights covered, the licence start, availability of the title and the seller’s revenue recognition disclosures. Signing, delivery, payment and recognition can fall in different periods.
Read the source
Disney’s annual report: Content Sales/Licensing