If Amazon Cuts Ties With Woody Allen, It Might Mean A Costly Payout

So far, Amazon Studios has remained mum about that their plans are for Woody Allen‘s next film, “A Rainy Day In New York.” The movie is currently in post-production, but with the film’s stars such as Rebecca Hall and Timothée Chalamet already distancing themselves from Allen and the movie, there’s already rumblings that Amazon might dump the picture entirely, leaving it to find a new distributor. However, that’s a decision that will have consequences.

THR reveals that “A Rainy Day In New York” is the second movie of a five picture deal with Allen (the recently released “Wonder Wheel” was the first, and it appears the limited series “A Crisis In Six Scenes” is separate from this). Given the cloud hanging over Allen following Dylan Farrow‘s allegation of sexual assault, many believe that Amazon will have no choice but to end their relationship with the director — however, breaking that contract will likely mean they’ll owe a hefty payout to the filmmaker. Complicating matters a bit further is that Amazon Studios has yet to name a success to former chief Roy Price, who brokered the Allen deal, but resigned in October after allegations of sexual harassment. According to the trade, a final decision about what Amazon will do with Allen probably won’t be answered until new leadership is in place.

If Amazon deal ends for Allen, his camp doesn’t seem to be too worried. The director has long maintained his innocence, and is already planning his next film, which reportedly already has financing in place. However, casting remains up in the air, as the A-listers who once flocked to work with Allen may no longer want to be anywhere near the director.