Disney's ready to handle the Marvel Studios projects and just spent $115 million to get the distribution rights for Iron Man 3 and The Avengers from Paramount Pictures. In a deal announced today, Walt Disney Studios, Paramount, and Marvel Studios confirmed the transfer while stating Thor (hitting theaters on May 6, 2011) and Captain America: The First Avenger (July 22, 2011) will remain with Paramount."In completing this agreement, Disney will now assume worldwide marketing and distribution of The Avengers and Iron Man 3 and leverage these two highly-anticipated films across the multiple global platforms of The Walt Disney Company," stated Chairman of The Walt Disney Studios Rich Ross. "We appreciate the tremendous momentum that Paramount established with these iconic Marvel characters and look forward to propelling the brand even further in the coming years."
Chairman & CEO of Paramount Pictures Brad Grey added, "Five years ago, when Paramount and Marvel made our initial deal, both our businesses were in very different places. We are grateful for the partnership we have had with the terrific Marvel team over these years and proud of the work we have done together. Today, this new agreement is the right deal for Paramount, for Marvel and for Disney. We look forward to working together on Thor and Captain America, and we wish Disney and Marvel the utmost success, in what we know will be a very productive and wide-ranging partnership."
Disney also revealed they're targeting a May 3, 2013 release date for Iron Man 3. The Avengers is aiming for a May 12, 2012 release.
(Photo © Paramount Pictures)
Join Hollywood Movies on Facebook / Follow Hollywood Movies on Twitter
Comments