Gamers of the world rejoice! Fox and Universal have locked up the rights to make Microsoft‘s hit game HALO into a feature. Plans are to release it as a tentpole flick for the summer of 2007. Microsoft is getting $5 mil up front against 10% of the gross. while Fox and Universal will split 50/50 on the remainder.
I’m sure there won’t be any lawsuits arising from that arrangement when all is said and done.
Actually though, one of the sticking points of the deal wasn’t finances, but Microsoft‘s level of involvement in the project. According to Variety: Tech giant is now guaranteed extensive consultation on the project, but won’t have approval over any elements. Several employees at Bungie, the Microsoft-owned development studio that created “Halo,” will serve as Microsoft’s creative consultants.
That sounds like good news to me. You don’t want non-film people having creative control, but you definitely want input from the creators – especially since they have a lot vested in protecting the brand name.
Even better news is that the original script that went out to studios came from 28 DAYS LATER scripter Alex Garland, and he will stay on board for the rewrites. No word on the specifics of the script, but here’s a description of the original game from the XBox site:
Halo is a sci-fi shooter that takes place on a mysterious alien ring-world. Packed with combat, Halo will have you battling on foot, in vehicles, inside and outdoors with Alien and Human weaponry. Your objective: to uncover Halo’s horrible secrets and destroy mankind’s sworn enemy, the Covenant.
Works for me! You can check out the HALO page for more info and background on the game.
The comment section exists to allow readers to discuss the article constructively and respectfully, focused on the topic at hand.
What’s Not Allowed