Amazon MGM Studios partners with Scott Stuber for a new cinematic era
A new chapter for United Artists
Amazon MGM Studios has embarked on an exciting multi-year film partnership with Scott Stuber, the former head of film at Netflix. This collaboration marks a significant milestone as Stuber’s new production company will operate under the iconic United Artists label, a name synonymous with cinematic classics like The Pink Panther, Rocky, One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, Network, and the James Bond series.
Reviving a legendary brand
Stuber’s new venture will be based at Amazon MGM Studios’ Culver City lot, with a first-look deal that gives Amazon MGM Studios the initial opportunity to finance and release the films developed by Stuber’s team. This partnership aims to produce several films annually, which will be available both in theaters and on Amazon’s streaming service, Prime Video.
Jennifer Salke, head of Amazon MGM Studios, expressed her enthusiasm: “With his proven track record of delivering global hits and an eye towards theatrical fare, Scott’s expertise and vision align perfectly with our film strategy. We are so proud to welcome him to our lot and partner with him on the relaunch of the legendary UA brand, as we work to leverage existing and new IP into big, broad films that resonate with worldwide audiences.”
A visionary leader
Scott Stuber brings a wealth of experience to this new role. Reflecting on his journey, he shared, “I’ve had the pleasure of working with Mike Hopkins, Jen Salke, and Courtenay Valenti over the years, and I’m thrilled to partner with them to produce a slate of films and to relaunch the iconic UA brand that has such a rich history of cinematic storytelling. During this dynamic and transformative time for our industry, I am excited to have the opportunity to work with partners who are committed to telling stories that reach and resonate with global audiences. I look forward to producing a wide range of films with great filmmakers, using both original story concepts and MGM and United Artists’ incredible library of existing IP.”
A legacy of cinematic excellence
At Netflix, Stuber played a pivotal role in elevating the company’s original film productions. He collaborated with top-tier directors like Martin Scorsese (The Irishman), Jane Campion (The Power of the Dog), Alfonso Cuarón (Roma), and Bradley Cooper (Maestro). His departure from Netflix in January marked the end of an era, with producer Dan Lin stepping in to lead the film division as the streaming giant shifts its focus towards more mainstream content.
Before his tenure at Netflix, Stuber founded and led Bluegrass Films, producing hits such as Ted, Central Intelligence, and Safe House. He also served as the vice chairman of worldwide production at Universal Studios, overseeing acclaimed films like A Beautiful Mind, Meet the Parents, and the Bourne and Fast and the Furious franchises.
The rise, fall, and resurgence of United Artists
United Artists has a storied history, marked by both triumphs and setbacks. The studio faced a significant challenge with the 1980 box office failure of Heaven’s Gate, a Western epic directed by Michael Cimino. This led to its sale to MGM in the 1980s. Despite mixed results in revitalizing the brand, United Artists continued to produce notable films such as The Birdcage, Leaving Las Vegas, and a remake of The Thomas Crown Affair starring Pierce Brosnan. However, it also experienced flops like Showgirls.
Looking ahead
The partnership between Amazon MGM Studios and Scott Stuber promises to usher in a new era for United Artists, blending the rich legacy of the past with innovative storytelling for contemporary audiences. As cinema and TV series enthusiasts, we can look forward to a diverse slate of films that will captivate and inspire viewers around the world.
For those eager to explore the trailers and information pages of the mentioned movies, here are the links:
- The Pink Panther
- Rocky
- One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest
- Network
- James Bond
- The Irishman
- The Power of the Dog
- Roma
- Maestro
- Ted
- Central Intelligence
- Safe House
- A Beautiful Mind
- Meet the Parents
- The Birdcage
- Leaving Las Vegas
- The Thomas Crown Affair
- Showgirls
This partnership is a testament to the enduring power of storytelling and the magic of cinema. As we anticipate the upcoming projects, it’s clear that the future of United Artists is bright, promising a blend of nostalgia and innovation that will captivate audiences for years to come.