Universal and Legendary extend Imax deal

The parties said the deal – their first multi-title deal with Imax – covers Fast & Furious 7, Jurassic World and Warcraft.

The extension incorporates Imax into Universal and Legendary’s release strategy for their tentpole roster, which includes Dracula Untold in October, Seventh Son in February 2015, Fast & Furious in April 2015, Jurassic World in June 2015, Everest in September 2015, Crimson Peak in October 2015 and Warcraft in March 2016.

“The IMAX platform has performed over and over again for Legendary, and through this deal we will continue to deliver an unparalleled filmed entertainment experience, as well as showcase the work of our directors in a way that resonates with audiences around the world,” said Legendary chairman and CEO Thomas Tull.

“Universal and our partners at Legendary are committed to the tentpole business and this deal ensures audiences will experience our films in the unparalleled environment of an IMAX theatre,” said Universal Filmed Entertainment chairman Jeff Shell. 

“We believe 2015 is shaping up to be a powerhouse year and today’s agreement with Universal and Legendary will help further strengthen our film portfolio for years to come,” said IMAX CEO Richard L Gelfond.

“Today’s announcement is a testament to the success we’ve been able to achieve together and I would like to thank our friends at Universal and Legendary, particularly longtime supporter and partner Thomas Tull, for their support of The Imax Experience and delivering action-packed, engaging films that clearly resonate with our core audience, ”said IMAX Corp senior evp and Imax Entertainment CEO Greg Foster.

• Universal has signed a two-year first-look production agreement with Josh Schwartz and Stephanie Savage’s Fake Empire. Schwartz and Savage are writing and will produce the studio’s live-action Mattel adaptation Monster High with producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron. Most recently they produced Endless Love with Scott Stuber and Pamela Abdy for the studio.