More than $ 200 million Godzilla is one of two legendary films caught in Warners’ surprise movement. The situation is more complicated for Dune, although the parties are also approaching an agreement on this project. Filmmaker Denis Villeneuve wrote with passion about his desire for an exclusive film release and Legendary is supporting him in this demand, according to a well-informed source. This film is scheduled to be released in October, which means that cinemas may be operating again while millions are vaccinated.
According to one source, conversations about various approaches to theater windows are underway and it remains unclear which option will be acceptable to Villeneuve. Another potential problem: it looks like Warners may have used Dune images to promote your streaming service without approval.
A Legendary spokesman declined to comment.
If Warners gives Dune an exclusive launch that could set a precedent by allowing others, such as Matrix 4 filmmaker Lana Wachowski, to demand similar treatment. As negotiations continue, it is unclear whether Warner Media will be able to maintain the line in its daily strategy to bolster its streaming service. Wachowski is said to be adamant about an exclusive theatrical season.
Legendary was considered the most likely of Warners’ financial partners to go into litigation after the studio’s surprise decision. It financed 75 percent of Godzilla and was prepared to accept an offer of more than $ 225 million from Netflix for the film. Warners blocked that deal.
Legendary could have argued in challenging Warner’s decision that, by placing the film unilaterally on its own streamer, Warner Media was dealing with itself. But Netflix’s November offering effectively set the price for Godzilla, simplifying this negotiation. Legendary is still dealing with talent in Godzilla but that should not make a business unfeasible. The film will maintain its May 21 release date in theaters, including IMAX, as well as HBO Max. Legendary will release the film in China.
Adam Wingard, known for Netflix’s Death note and horror movies like You’re next and The guestdirected Godzilla x Kong. It stars Alexander Skarsgard, Millie Bobby Brown, Rebecca Hall and Kyle Chandler.
Aaron Couch contributed reporting.