The company has cut a new multi-year distribution deal with Sony Pictures.
Legendary Entertainment, the film production company behind action blockbusters like the new Godzilla and Dune films, has been a longtime partner of Warner Bros., who has published and backed their films. However, this week, Legendary announced that effective immediately, they are ending their ongoing dealings with Warner Bros. in favor of a new contract with Sony Pictures. Warner Bros. will still have rights to any Legendary films they’ve already paid for, such as the upcoming Dune: Part Two, but all future Legendary films will go through Sony.
In a joint statement, Sony and Legendary claimed that the companies are in agreement on their “ongoing commitment to theatrical distribution as a driver for other ‘downstream’ windows and the theatrical window’s long-term value for films.”
“It’s a rare opportunity to partner in this mutually beneficial way with true pros, who are completely aligned in our theatrical commitment and vision for this business,” said Josh Greenstein and Sanford Panitch, presidents of Sony Pictures Motion Picture Group. “The creative brilliance and power of Legendary is huge and we look forward to bringing their work to theaters across the world.”
“As we continue to grow our content offerings, we are excited to forge this relationship with Tony, Tom, Sanford, Josh and the rest of the exceptional Sony team,” Legendary CEO Joshua Grode said. “Sony’s commitment to theatrical distribution aligns with our vision of how to best derive the most value for Legendary’s movies. The incredible slate of movies that Mary Parent has amassed are built for the theatrical experience and we are excited about our partnership with Sony for this next phase of Legendary’s growth.”