Legendary in Talks With Paramount for New Theatrical Deal

Legendary is negotiating a multi picture global theatrical distribution deal with Paramount under David Ellison.

Legendary in Talks With Paramount for New Theatrical Deal

EXCLUSIVE: Legendary is in talks for a new multi picture global theatrical distribution deal with Paramount, led by David Ellison. The agreement is being drafted with a streaming window and a built in transactional window, and terms include the possibility of co financing and how the Legendary slate would fit into Paramount's release plan. Paramount aims to raise annual film output to 15 features, with a long term goal of 20 films per year. Legendary’s current distribution relationships see major titles at Warner Bros, including the MonsterVerse and Dune franchises, while other projects such as Animal Friends and the Minecraft Movie are part of industry chatter. Paramount declined to comment.

Meanwhile, Legendary still has ongoing ties with Warner Bros that continue to anchor key franchises. The talks illustrate how studios are recalibrating distribution power and production in a crowded market. If the pact moves forward, it could influence release strategies, financing and the balance of power across the two companies as they navigate a evolving landscape of streaming windows and box office expectations.

Industry observers see this as part of a broader shift toward flexible partnerships that share risk across projects. A multi picture arrangement could speed up production cycles and give both firms more control over marketing and rollout timing. The absence of a China component signals selective market focus and risk management in a shifting global landscape.

The deal also raises questions about competition, creative balance and how future projects will be chosen. Critics may worry about a two studio corridor squeezing smaller players, while fans will watch to see if the plan preserves a diverse mix of voices and genres. The next moves from Ellison and Grode will reveal whether this is a rescue mission or a blueprint for a steadier, more scalable future.

Highlights

Industry watchers will be watching how this shapes the studio map and the next cycle of releases.