MGM Losing Bond Franchise?
Oct 06, 2009 - By Krystal Clark
Poor MGM can’t catch a break. The legendary studio has been at the center of a serious financial crisis over the past few weeks, and there seems to be no sign of relief in sight. According to WAMG, MGM could be losing its livelihood with the possible loss of Ian Flemings James Bond franchise. Some reports are suggesting that Twentieth Century Fox may be stepping in to buy the property.
According to the site, MGM has already sold off the 007 franchise to Fox.
A source close to the dealings has let We Are Movie Geeks know that Bond is alive and well, and will be settling into his new domicile for marketing and distribution at 20th Century Fox. That’s right, expect the official word to come out any day now, but it looks like ‘Bond 23′ is going to be running behind the Fox banner.
The last two Bond films were released by Sony, who acquired MGM back in 2004. Twentieth Century Fox has already been dealing with the home entertainment and international marketing for the films, which will make the transition a lot easier. When Fox was asked about the rumor they insisted that it’s not true, yet WAMG expects an announcement “any day now” that will prove it is.
Who do you believe? I understand MGM has been backed into a corner, but selling off Bond would be an idiotic move. The franchise is their bread and butter. How many film franchises do you know that can go up to 23 installments?! Bond is more than a film or a character, it’s a legacy, and the last time I checked so was MGM.
What do you think about the possibility of Fox buying Bond from MGM?
Thursday, October 8, 2009 3:12AM
MGM s main legacy is losing money. They had to merge with UA in the 1970s to survive and they are bought and sold every few years by some foolish investors who think they can turn business around and then lose millions of dollars. It doesnt make financial sense to keep it around just because its one of the original studios. Just kill it and sell off its assets.
Thursday, October 15, 2009 9:31AM
I do not believe the story at all. EON Productions producers Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli have not said a word about it. It would be a big announcement from them if it were true. Let's just wait and see what develops in the next few months.
Friday, October 23, 2009 12:51PM
[...] Bond property is still afloat. Rumors have been circulating that the longstanding series would be sold off to another studio, because MGM could no longer afford to produce the films. Yet, according to a video brought to our [...]