Scott Stuber has found his post-Netlfix gig, re-launching the storied United Artists studio label under Amazon MGM.
The multi-year partnership will see Stuber finance and produce films via his soon-to-be-launched production company that will be released through United Artists, both theatrically and on streaming for Prime. Stuber will be involved in all UA releases, even those his company does not produce.
Stuber and his new shingle will also have a first-look deal with Amazon MGM and will be based out of the company’s Culver City offices.
Stuber joins Amazon MGM after announcing his departure as the film head of competing tech giant, Netflix, at the top of the year. Under Stuber’s direction, Netflix’s feature business aggressively entered the blockbuster space, courting filmmakers such as Zack Snyder and the Russo brothers, as well as award-winning auteurs like Martin Scorsese. To join Netflix in 2017, Stuber, who established himself as an executive at Universal, left his production company Bluegrass Films.
As for United Artists, the over century-old label founded by Charlie Chaplin, D.W. Griffith, Mary Pickford, and Douglas Fairbanks, this is the latest incarnation. The production and distribution outfits was founded on the premise that talent would control their own works. Storied releases include Modern Times, Of Mice and Men and The African Queen.
United Artists was acquired in the 80s by MGM and, more recently, was rebranded in 2019 as a distribution outfit, United Artsist Releasing, a partnership between MGM and Megan Elison’s Annapurna. When Amazon acquired MGM, United Artists was folded back into the studio where it has stayed until Stuber’s planned revival.
Said Stuber of today’s announcement, “During this dynamic and transformative time for our industry, I am excited to have the opportunity to work with partners who are committed to telling stories that reach and resonate with global audiences. I look forward to producing a wide range of films with great filmmakers, using both original story concepts and MGM and United Artists’ incredible library of existing IP.”
“With his proven track record of delivering global hits and an eye towards theatrical fare, Scott’s expertise and vision align perfectly with our film strategy,” said Amazon MGM head Jennifer Salke. “We are so proud to welcome him to our lot and partner with him on the relaunch of the legendary UA brand, as we work to leverage existing and new IP into big, broad films that resonate with worldwide audiences.”
