What are we going to do with MGM Studios? It seems like they are moments away from going under and yet everyday more news comes out regarding their future production slate that looks promising. I wish someone would hurry up and buy them so we can at least know what to expect.

As you may or may not know, MGM is hurting financially. Back in September Variety reported that MGM might have to auction off their properties, which includes The Hobbit and the next Bond film, in order to try and alleviate their debts. Different studios from Warner Bros. to Lionsgate have indicated interest in purchasing the rest of the MGM properties. As of right now, MGM is for sale.

The Next Bond Status

Just yesterday it was reported by Slashfilm that the next Bond film, Bond 23, was officially put on hold with all of the MGM stuff floating in the air. Both producers Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli said, “Well, our timeline is a little up in the air what with the situation at MGM, so we have to be flexible. We just don’t know enough about the situation to comment, but we know it’s uncertain.” If Bond is put on hold then I fear what that means for the future of the beloved Hobbit film. How about the proposed Darren Aronofsky remake of Robocop that we are all waiting for?

It’s amazing what can happen in a day. As of yesterday, Nikki Finke broke the news that director Sam Mendes was in talks to possibly direct the next Bond film at MGM. What?! I thought it was put on hold! And now you’re telling me that they are fast tracking the film for a 2011 release date…(side note to consider: Kate Winslet as a Bond girl? I would like that)

The Hobbit

As for The Hobbit, Production Weekly is reporting that production is set to start in June and shoot for 14 months with shooting and post-production overlapping on both of the films. If they are starting filming this summer then that means we should start to hear some casting news pretty soon, especially who will be starring as Bilbo.

Robocop

That leaves us with Robocop…and it’s not looking so good. According to a report from Moviehole, who received their information from Robocop Archives, it looks like the film is frozen:

I’ve spoken with Phoenix Pictures [and] asked them about the status of Robocop… they told me that the project is on hold. The problem is that Mary Parent, Chairperson of MGM, wants a 3D movie for the new Robocop.

Apparently, Darren Aronofsky isn’t keen on using a lot of CG and especially a gimmick like 3D. For me, this is good news. I don’t want to see a video-game-movie-remake of Robocop where I have blood and bullets coming at me. I want a good ole’ traditional 2D killing spree with Robocop mulling bad guys down. And I want Darren to do it! Way to stick to your guns Aronofsky!

What do you think about the crazy carousel that is MGM Studios? Will they be able to survive a buy out? Will the film slate be hampered by the negative press they are receiving because of their financial woes?

Related posts:

1. Casting Rumor: Tobey Maguire as Bilbo Baggins in The Hobbit?