In a highly competitive situation, Sony Pictures Entertainment has emerged as the victor by securing the theatrical distribution rights for two highly anticipated Apple Original Films. The first film is “Wolfs,” featuring Hollywood heavyweights George Clooney and Brad Pitt, while the second one is “Project Artemis,” starring Scarlett Johansson and Channing Tatum. This news comes shortly after Apple Original Films’ release of “Napoleon,” directed by Ridley Scott, which has been a global success, grossing nearly $200 million worldwide through its distribution pact with Sony.
A Global Theatrical Window
Both “Wolfs” and “Project Artemis” have been developed and produced by Apple Original Films and will enjoy a global theatrical window before being made available for streaming worldwide on AppleTV+. While specific release dates have not been announced, it wouldn’t be surprising if both films secure coveted spots in the 2024 exhibition marketplace, as there is a strong demand for exciting new projects.
The Return of Jon Watts to Sony Culver City
One notable aspect of this deal is the return of filmmaker Jon Watts, famous for his work on the Spider-Man franchise. Watts, who directed the highly successful “Spider-Man: No Way Home,” earning a staggering $1.92 billion worldwide, will now helm “Wolfs.” Furthermore, Watts also wrote and produced the film, which revolves around two lone-wolf fixers assigned to a challenging mission. The cast is nothing short of impressive, with Academy Award-nominee and SAG Award-winner Amy Ryan joining Clooney and Pitt. Clooney produces the film through Smokehouse Pictures, while Pitt produces alongside Dede Gardner, Jeremy Kleiner, and Dianne McGunigle.
“Project Artemis” takes viewers on an epic journey set against the backdrop of the 1960s space race. Directed by Greg Berlanti, a two-time Primetime Emmy nominee, and written by Rose Gilroy, the film stars Johansson and Tatum, accompanied by a talented ensemble cast. The cast includes Jim Rash, Emmy Award-winner Ray Romano, newcomer Anna Garcia, Donald Elise Watkins, Noah Robbins, Colin Woodell, Nick Dillenburg, Christian Zuber, and Woody Harrelson. Johansson also serves as a producer under her These Pictures banner, alongside Jonathan Lia and Keenan Flynn.
A Growing Slate of Apple Original Films
“Project Artemis” and “Wolfs” join an expanding slate of Apple Original Films produced under Apple Studios. One of the notable films in their lineup is Martin Scorsese’s “Killers of the Flower Moon,” which has received critical acclaim and accolades. It was named the Best Film of the Year by the National Board of Review, one of the top 10 films of the year by the American Film Institute, and the No. 1 Best Film of 2023 by The New York Times, The New Yorker, and The New York Film Critics Circle. The film, which opened on October 20, has already amassed over $155 million worldwide. It was released on PVOD and digital platforms on December 5.
Apple Original Films has made its mark in the entertainment industry by securing the Academy Award for Best Picture with “CODA,” becoming the first streaming service to achieve this prestigious honor. Additionally, their film “The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse” won the Academy Award for Best Animated Short.
Fans can look forward to more highly anticipated Apple Original Films in the near future. One such film is the star-studded spy thriller “Argylle,” directed by Matthew Vaughn. The cast includes Henry Cavill, Sam Rockwell, Bryce Dallas Howard, Bryan Cranston, Catherine O’Hara, John Cena, Dua Lipa, Ariana DeBose, and Samuel L. Jackson. “Argylle” is set to have a theatrical release via Universal on February 2, 2024.
As Apple Original Films continues to expand its influence and deliver captivating stories to audiences worldwide, their partnership with Sony Pictures Entertainment ensures that these highly anticipated films will reach a broader audience through global theatrical distribution. Movie enthusiasts can expect an exciting lineup of films that will capture their imagination and keep them eagerly anticipating what’s next on the horizon.