Ever since Joss Whedon put in his open request for the rights of the Terminator franchise back in November, things have been pretty quiet on the front of studios bidding for the sci-fi property. The first news came through yesterday, as Lionsgate put in an offer for $15 million, with a 5% cut of future gross receipts.
The property was originally put up back in September, as the company currently holding the rights, The Halcyon Group, filed for bankruptcy. The auction includes just about anything Terminator, which include the rights to future films, TV series, DVDs, and any merchandise that gets produced.
Up until now, the films have been around the block, so to speak. Pacific West helped produce the rights to the first films, while distribution rights went to MGM, then Artisan and Columbia/Tri-Star, then to Warner Bros and Sony for the final two films. A purchase by Lionsgate could mean a resurgence in the franchise, as they are known for mildly successful reboots with Punisher: War Zone, 3:10 To Yuma, and Bangkok Dangerous.
Other studios have until February 4th to submit their offers, which have to top Lionsgate’s bid by at least $500,000 in order to count. The auction for all other “Terminator” assets will take place on February 8th in Los Angeles. No word on if Joss Whedon has plans on taking out his credit card to outbid the studio, but he’s still got time.
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