Movistar Plus+ is set to launch two new temporary channels in May 2025, aimed at enhancing its programming with notable themes. As of May 6, 2025, one of the channels has already been active, while the second one is scheduled to go live on May 8, 2025. These channels will feature an array of films and documentaries, with a special focus on Hollywood star Tom Cruise.
The first channel, dedicated to Tom Cruise, will be available from May 8 to May 25, 2025, on dial 15. This channel celebrates Cruise's iconic role in the 'Mission: Impossible' franchise, which marks its 30th anniversary this year. Viewers can expect to see a lineup of films including 'Mission: Impossible', 'Mission: Impossible 2', 'Mission: Impossible III', 'Mission: Impossible – Protocolo Fantasma', 'Mission: Impossible – Nación Secreta', 'Mission: Impossible – Fallout', and 'Mission: Impossible – Sentencia mortal'. Additionally, other popular titles featuring Cruise, such as 'Top Gun: Maverick', 'Nacido el 4 de julio', 'Oblivion', 'Jerry Maguire', 'Austin Powers en Miembro de Oro', and 'Tropic Thunder: Una guerra muy perra', will also be part of the programming.
On May 9, 2025, viewers can look forward to the premiere of the documentary 'Tom Cruise. De oficio estrella', which will delve into the actor's illustrious career. The channel will not only air these films but also provide on-demand access for viewers to enjoy them at their convenience.
On the first day of the Tom Cruise channel, the schedule includes 'Austin Powers en miembro de oro' at 11:55 AM, 'Tropic Thunder: Una guerra muy perra' at 1:28 PM, 'Oblivion' at 3:22 PM, 'Nacido el cuatro de julio' at 5:24 PM, 'Jerry Maguire' at 7:45 PM, 'Misión: Imposible' at 10:00 PM, and 'Top Gun: Maverick' at 11:49 PM.
In addition to the Tom Cruise channel, Movistar Plus+ has also launched a pop-up channel called Top Comedia Española por M+, which has been available since May 1, 2025, and will run until June 1, 2025. This channel, accessible on dial 18, features a variety of Spanish comedy films and series. For example, on May 6, viewers can enjoy 'El robo más grande jamás contado' at 6:15 PM, 'Un mal día lo tiene cualquiera' at 8:05 PM, and the series 'Muertos S.L. T1: episodio 4' at 9:25 PM, among other titles.
As the month progresses, the Top Comedia Española channel will continue to showcase a diverse array of content, including films like 'El día de la bestia', 'Inconscientes', and 'Lázaro de Tormes'. The variety of programming aims to cater to a wide audience, ensuring that there is something for everyone.
However, this surge in new content comes amid a backdrop of uncertainty within Movistar Plus+. Since the appointment of Daniel Domenjó as CEO on March 6, 2025, there have been concerns among executives regarding the lack of a clear strategic plan. Despite several meetings, Domenjó has not yet communicated a defined direction for the platform, leaving many in the organization unsure about future objectives.
Insiders have suggested that Domenjó is looking to diversify content and attract new audiences, potentially moving beyond the platform's traditional focus on scripted series. "It seems there's a desire to broaden the content spectrum to reach more diverse audiences, but we haven't been told how or when," noted a long-time executive at Movistar Plus+.
New leadership changes, including the hiring of Jorge Pezzi from Boomerang TV and Hugo Tomás from ITV Studios Iberia, have raised further questions about the platform's future direction. These appointments suggest a shift towards incorporating more varied formats, but specific details remain unclear.
As Movistar Plus+ navigates this transitional period, the pressure is on to adapt to the evolving demands of the audiovisual market, which is increasingly competitive and fragmented. The upcoming months are expected to reveal more about Domenjó's plans and the company's strategy moving forward.
In conclusion, while Movistar Plus+ is launching exciting new channels featuring Tom Cruise and Spanish comedy, the internal uncertainty regarding leadership and strategic direction looms large. As the platform strives to innovate and attract a broader audience, the coming weeks will be crucial in shaping its future.
