Ellison Proposes 30-Title Pact for Theaters in Paramount‑WBD Merger Talks
David Ellison is reportedly offering AMC and Regal three-year, contractually enforceable commitments to guarantee a 30-film annual slate for the Paramount‑WBD merger, including a 45-day exclusive theatrical window and a 90-day streaming moratorium, with penalties for noncompliance. The move aims to counter antitrust concerns in the merger and curb hoarding of output for Paramount+/HBO Max, while Paramount signals willingness to put the pledge in writing; however, industry observers note that more titles don’t guarantee bigger profits, and Paramount’s recent results show pressure on theatrical revenue, leaving the plan uncertain and contingent on the merger timeline.