Apple continues to expand its television and film content division by entering into the race to win the film distribution rights to the James Bond franchise, writes The Hollywood Reporter, via MacRumors. While Warner Bros. is thought to be the frontrunner, both Apple and Amazon are said to be in “hot pursuit” of a deal, along with the likes of Universal and Fox.
Sony’s rights to the James Bond movie franchise ended with the release of 2015’s Spectre, thus sparking the ensuing bidding war, with many different studios and companies attempting to secure the rights. The Hollywood Reporter’s sources say that Apple and Amazon are prepared to offer “in the same ballpark” as Warner Bros., “if not much more,” in order to obtain the rights.
The package on offer includes streaming rights to the complete James Bond film back catalogue, and possibly even “the future of the franchise.”
The Hollywood Reporter’s sources say that Apple “is considered such a viable competitor that Warners is now pressing MGM hard to close a deal.”
Source: Apple Looking to Purchase 'James Bond' Film Distribution Rights
