We have yet another twist in the saga of “No Time to Die‘s” release plans, which by this point is approaching “Tenet” levels of twists and turns. The latest news involves MGM reportedly exploring selling the latest James Bond film to streaming services, for a whopping $600 million.
READ MORE: ‘Bond’ Producer Hasn’t Even Begun The Search For A New 007 But Knows It Won’t Be A Woman
Variety reports that the studio was “at least open to the possibility of unloading their crown jewel for a princely sum,” looking for a deal of around $600 million. It seems, however, that this was simply too high a sum for two streaming services Variety describes as “free-spending,” which probably refers to Netflix and Apple which are named in the report. A spokesperson for MGM denied any streaming deal “We do not comment on rumors. The film is not for sale. The film’s release has been postponed until April 2021 in order to preserve the theatrical experience for moviegoers.”
Another issue is whether Bond producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson would have to sign off on the deal. According to Variety, a sale so big would be led exclusively by Kevin Ulrich, CEO of MGM’s majority owner, Anchorage Capital Group. Bond informers at MI6 HQ report that MGM is looking to sell only the North American distribution rights to “No Time to Die,” which would still allow Universal Pictures to release the film internationally.
MGM has already lost between $30 and $50 million already due to the delays in releasing “No Time to Die,” adding to a financially difficult year for the studio. Earlier this year it was reported that the studio was maybe looking into selling out to either Netflix or Apple (both of which also made offers for the latest Bond film) as the studio was hit with a wave of layoffs due to the pandemic.
