Spielberg's Summer Decisions

In New York, anticipation has been building among studio executives regarding a pivotal decision that could shape their summer 2001 plans. Steven Spielberg, meanwhile, has been preoccupied with award ceremonies, making speeches, and dealing with health issues, including the loss of a kidney.

The suspense surrounding his choice has captured more attention than many popular game shows. While it was anticipated that Spielberg would announce his decision last week, he did not provide any updates to the studios, which primarily revolved around two major projects: "Minority Report" from Fox and "Harry Potter" from Warner Bros.

Despite Spielberg's insistence that he was still deliberating, insiders suggest that "Minority Report" is becoming the frontrunner, indicating that he is unlikely to take the helm of "Harry Potter." This shift would be surprising given that many had previously speculated that "Potter" was his next venture, a belief echoed by various media outlets in the U.S.

"Harry Potter" marks the beginning of a seven-film series based on J.K. Rowling's beloved fantasy novels. The script, penned by Steve Kloves, was initially handed to Spielberg, who has held onto it for an extended period. However, speculation intensified last week that he may opt out of directing or producing the "Potter" series, although both Spielberg and Warner Bros. have refuted these claims.Scott Frank, known for his work on "Out of Sight," has recently finished yet another revision of "Minority Report." This latest draft is more about refining the script than the extensive structural rewrites he previously undertook to address plot issues that had prevented Spielberg from committing to this intricate sci-fi project, which was initially slated for a summer 2000 release by Fox and DreamWorks.

Tom Cruise, along with Fox executives, is gearing up for production on "Minority Report" soon. After completing what seemed like an interminable shoot for "Mission Impossible 2," Cruise has intentionally left his schedule open, displaying a keen interest in collaborating with Spielberg next.

Following a two-year break after "Saving Private Ryan," Spielberg appears ready to embark on a back-to-back film project, reminiscent of his approach during the making of "Jurassic Park" and "Schindler’s List."

Should Spielberg decide against "Harry Potter," it is anticipated that while he directs "Minority Report," Warner Bros. could begin preparations for "A.I." Despite having several high-profile projects like "Lindbergh" and "Memoirs of a Geisha" in his pipeline, Spielberg has shown significant enthusiasm for "A.I.," marking it as the first script he has penned himself since "Close Encounters of the Third Kind" in 1977. He is currently working from an outline by Stanley Kubrick, and while it remains uncertain if another writer will join the project, Warner Bros. is already looking into logistics. Spielberg is also on the lookout for a young actor, similar to Haley Joel Osment, to play the lead role.

If Spielberg opts out of "Harry Potter," it won't spell doom for the adaptation of one of the most significant publishing phenomena ever. Numerous top-tier directors, including Chris Columbus, Jonathan Demme, and Brad Silberling, are eager to take on the project. Rob Reiner, despite his recent struggles, is also among the contenders, having a history with Warner Bros. as a former partner of Alan Horn.

In other news, Universal Pictures has ended its three-picture deal with Sylvester Stallone, which was initiated in August 1995, coinciding with the studio's agreement with Jim Carrey for "Liar Liar." This decision follows the departure of Ron Meyer, who had represented Stallone at Creative Artists Agency, to become the president of MCA.

Stallone's Recent Film Deal

The recent deal involving Stallone has generated significant buzz, primarily because it was rumored that the studio would pay him $60 million, translating to $20 million per film. However, Universal Pictures clarified that this was actually a first-look agreement, meaning Stallone would only get compensated if they chose to proceed with the films.

Under this arrangement, Stallone and Universal committed to producing just one film, titled “D-Tox,” which is a thriller set to be released later this year. Previously, Universal had released Stallone’s movie “Daylight” in late 1996, which did not perform well in the domestic market but fared better internationally. It's worth noting that “Daylight” was part of a different agreement.

Currently, there is no scheduled release date for “D-Tox.” Meanwhile, Warner Bros. is gearing up for a fall launch of “Get Carter,” a remake of the 1971 classic featuring Stallone.

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— Dave McNary

In the film “Boiler Room,” the fictional brokerage firm at the center of the plot is named J.T. Marlin, a title that suggests a prestigious background. Interestingly, the creator of the film, Ben Younger, derived this name from an ex-boss, John Tepper Marlin, who worked in the New York City Comptroller’s office.

The real J.T. Marlin, who served as the chief economist for the comptroller, did not appreciate being associated with the film's portrayal of unethical business practices. He has taken legal action against New Line Cinema and Younger, claiming that the film has caused him significant emotional distress.

Marlin is seeking at least $11 million in damages for the suffering he claims to have endured due to the movie and its promotional materials. He also believes that Younger and New Line should face an additional penalty of $11 million.

A settlement between the parties appears to be on the horizon, with both sides expected to appear in court today.

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— Lindsay Chaney

This summer, the movie season will kick off a bit earlier, as Universal Pictures has decided to move the release date of “The Flintstones in Viva Rock Vegas” to the final weekend of April.

Initially scheduled for May 12, the sequel to the beloved 1994 comedy was first pushed to May 5, and eventually, the studio confirmed April 28 as the new release date.

Nikki Rocco, president of distribution, expressed enthusiasm about the film’s early debut, citing its quality and the alignment with a promotion from Burger King.

Summer Movie Season Begins

In recent times, the summer movie season has started earlier, kicking off in early May.

This trend has been fueled by the popularity of blockbuster hits like “Twister,” “Deep Impact,” and “The Mummy.”

Now, DreamWorks is gearing up for the release of “Gladiator,” which is set to launch on May 5.

On the same day, “Rock Vegas” will face off against three dramatic films: New Line’s “Frequency,” Warner Bros.’ “Gossip,” and 20th Century Fox’s “Where the Heart Is.”

Excitement is building as these films prepare to compete for audiences.

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