Over the next few years, MGM is planning to release half a dozen films, some in the $150 million to $200 million-plus range. Studio is ready to unveil such high-profile projects as “Terminator 4”; one or two installments of “The Hobbit,” which Sloan hopes will be directed by Peter Jackson; and a sequel to “The Thomas Crown Affair” with Pierce Brosnan.
The idea of “Tentpole” movies has returned to MGM’s business plan. Backing a few guaranteed blockbusters to drag in some major piles of money, and let that bankroll all the other projects that they hope to also make money from.
Out of that list however, I can only see The Hobbit guaranteeing them money. They hope to get Jackson on board with it, and I am sure he wouldnt mind, but I dont think Jackson is a must. I would be happy to see ANY good director get behind that project and simply “do it right” Doesnt have to be Jackson. Id sooner see someone else do it and get to see it 2 years from now rather than wait for Jackson to finish Lovely Bones and Halo. Just because Jackson did a great job with Lord of the Rings doesnt mean he is the only one who can do Hobbit. Im sure he would do it fine, but WHEN?
I liked Thomas Crown Affair, and I loved the first two Terminator films, but I dont see these as being blockbuster staples to carry the rest of the studio. At least they already have the James Bond Franchise and a very hopeful Rocky sequel coming out.
For the love of Middle Earth, just bring out the Hobbit!!!
