Joshua Grode Josh Greenstein Sanford Panitch

Source: Alex Berliner / Sony Pictures

Joshua Grode, Josh Greenstein, Sanford Panitch

Legendary Entertainment has struck a multi-year worldwide theatrical distribution deal with Sony Pictures as the parties affirmed their commitment to theatrical as a driver of downstream value on major releases.

The pact excludes China, where Legendary East will handle all marketing and distribution activities. Sony Pictures will also handle home entertainment and TV distribution for the titles it releases, and Legendary retains the option to produce and distribute features for streamers.

Legendary will continue to remain in business with its previous worldwide distribution partner Warner Bros on select existing titles including the upcoming Dune: Part Two, which is currently in production and scheduled for release on November 3, 2023.

“It’s a rare opportunity to partner in this mutually beneficial way with true pros, who are completely aligned in our theatrical commitment and vision for this business,” said Josh Greenstein and Sanford Panitch, presidents of Sony Pictures Motion Picture Group. “The creative brilliance and power of Legendary is huge and we look forward to bringing their work to theaters across the world.”

Legendary CEO Joshua Grode said, “Sony’s commitment to theatrical distribution aligns with our vision of how to best derive the most value for Legendary’s movies. The incredible slate of movies that Mary Parent has amassed are built for the theatrical experience and we are excited about our partnership with Sony for this next phase of Legendary’s growth.”

Grode added, “We are also grateful to Warner Bros. Pictures who has been a valuable partner to Legendary over many years, and we look forward to continuing our work with the talented executives at Warner/Discovery.”

Legendary’s film group highlights include Dune, Godzilla Vs. Kong, Pokemon Detective Pikachu, Enola Holmes and Enola Holmes 2, currently on Netflix.