Here’s something strange, Martin Scorsese’s next film, SHUTTER ISLAND, has possibly been removed from 2010 Academy Awards consideration. The reason is apparently economic.
Brad Grey, Paramount Pictures Chairman and CEO, released this official statement.
"Our 2009 slate was greenlit in a very different economic climate and as a result we must remain flexible and willing to recalibrate and adapt to a changing environment. This is a situation facing every single studio as we all work through the financial pressures associated with the broader downturn. Like every business, we must make difficult choices to maximize our overall success and to best manage Paramount's business in a way that serves Viacom and its shareholders, while providing the film with every possible chance to succeed both creatively and financially.
Martin Scorsese is not just one of the world's most significant filmmakers, but also a personal friend. Following a highly successful 2009, we have every confidence that Shutter Island is a great anchor to lead off our 2010 slate and the shift in date is the best decision for the film, the studio and ultimately Viacom."
This is surprising because the film is another teaming of Scorsese with Leonardo DiCaprio, last time yielding a number of Oscars and great financial success with 2006’s THE DEPARTED. And it is based on a Dennis Lehane (MYSTIC RIVER) novel. The original release date was October 2nd, 2009, and will now be February 19, 2010, which is kind of a black hole release date.
We’ll just have to see how this turns out, but THE DEPARTED also had an October release date and went onto make more than a $132 million domestically.
