Get ready to be "Miramaxed" out.
The Weinstein Brothers have forged a deal to return to Miramax in order to "exploit the creative properties in the library that [they] left behind when they exited Disney. The deal will span multiple years and multiple titles for films, TV series and live stage productions." So, what does that mean content wise? For starters, Harvey Weinstein is dead set on sequels for both ROUNDERS and SHAKESPEARE IN LOVE, as well as TV shows for both GOOD WILL HUNTING and FLIRTING WITH DISASTER.
“In an age where there is so much demand for television, we see a lot of TV series. I personally have never made a sequel, but I will make Shakespeare In Love as one. I’ve always wanted to do that and now we have the impetus to. There is so much intellectual property, and we’re in an age where, for however long it lasts, content is king."
Weinstein is adamant about making a sequel to ROUNDERS, the 1998 gambling pic from director John Dahl, saying:
“I’ve discussed making Rounders 2 with Matt Damon and I would say that’s going to be instantaneous. The guys [writers David Levien and Brian Koppelman] have a great idea, a way to make it more international where you start the card game in Paris, that’s all I want to say. There might be a certain beautiful Parisian actress involved in it, and then we’re off to the racetrack and Vegas with Matty and Edward Norton, and a new supervillain to replace John Malkovich.”
Weinstein is apparently "eyeing Robert De Niro for [the villain] role."
To me, Miramax always felt like the indie playground that ushered in a few Oscar contenders each year, but wasn't exactly a major hub for franchise fare. It's interesting that Weinstein is so confident that all of these properties will translate to TV or continue on the big screen with any guaranteed level of success. I mean, SHAKESPEARE IN LOVE is one of the most overrated Oscar winners of all time. I can't imagine anyone dying for a sequel, unless they just want to see Gwyneth topless again. There's certainly potential in the massive library of titles in Miramax's library, but none of it is guaranteed to fly with sequels, spinoffs, and series. They're in the same predicament that comes with any follow up and that rests squarely with the writers, producers, actors, etc. making a quality product, regardless of what was established beforehand.
How do YOU like these apples? Is there a particular Miramax property you'd like to see as a sequel, spinoff, or TV show?