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Paramount’s potential acquisition of Warner Bros. remains on shaky ground, but both Paramount and California attorney general Rob Bonta are digging in their heels. After new Paramount CEO David Ellison made commitments that would benefit movie theaters, Cinemark joined AMC and Regal in recommending the merger go through. “The enduring success of our industry requires a healthy theatrical ecosystem supported by financially sound studios and exhibitors that can effectively create, distribute and exhibit high-quality films to consumers around the world,” Cinemark said in a press release. “We join those who have recently called for an expedited resolution of the proposed Paramount Skydance and Warner Bros. Discovery merger as prolonged uncertainty runs the risk of diverting time and resources away from achieving these priorities.” In order to get the chains on his side, Ellison reportedly committed to releasing 30 films per year with his new combined studio and to keep them exclusive to theaters for 45 days.
On the other end of the spectrum, Bonta is continuing to lead 12 states suing Paramount to block the merger with the trial slated to begin on March 2, 2027. Ellison has threatened to move Paramount out of California if Bonta doesn’t agree to a settlement, but Bonta still says he sees no threat. “If their goal is to apply pressure, no pressure felt, no pressure applied,” he told The Hollywood Reporter. “Honestly it reveals more than it tries to impose. What it reveals is that they’re on the back foot, they’re reeling. They’re losing in court. And David Ellison has to explain why he’s talking out of two sides of his mouth.” Regarding the groups that have now come out in support of the deal, Bonta just attributed those opinions to strategy. “I think what some of these stakeholders are interested in is a resolution as soon as possible,” he said. “Certainty is something they’re looking for. To me it’s important to know that they value it and why they value it. But I don’t see that as pressure.” Guess this isn’t coming to an end anytime soon.
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