Why Disney AND MGM Studios?

[WEDWDW]

Why did Disney include MGM in this park?Why did they not just theme the park entirely around Disney movies instead oy Disney and MGM movies?Does MGM own part of the park?I love the park as it is-just curious.

 

[Serenity]

I am sure someone will post with the correct answer, but I THINK it is because MGM paid a hugh amount of money as a sponsor- this helped Disney with the construction costs so the park could be built. Kind of like how they do some of the rides/things at the other parks. Remember when Lion Kion show was in Fantasyland (where Philharmagic is now)? It used to be the Kodac theater. Universe of Energy is sponsored by Exxon, Test Track by GM, McDonalds pays a hugh sponsorship fee to be the only chain fast food on property, etc. They get these companies to pay for the construction and then the company gets advertisement in the parks.

 

[ErikdaRed]

Actually as I understand it, it was just the reverse. Disney wanted access to MGM's extensive film library, so wooed MGM.

 

[We Believe]

ErikdaRed is right. When the studios park was planned, it was felt that Disney did not have enough content to open such a park. Disney therefore paid for use of the MGM name and access to the library for attractions, themeing, etc. I have read over and over that Disney received MGM usage rights for a paltry sum because they negotiated at a time when MGM was desperate for cash. Supposedly, the CEO of MGM was so enraged by the deal that he threatened litigation, etc. but Disney already had a legitimate contract.

There has been ongoing speculation that the deal with MGM is due to end soon and will not be renewed. IMO, who cares - Disney has enough content now and 'Disney Studios' sounds better.

 

[Chuck S]

Also MGM was rumored to want to pull out because it was considering opening their OWN parks. Well, they tried that in Las Vegas...the park didn't last long.

Disney probably entered into the agreement for two reasons. Access to the rights for use in attractions (like the Great Movie ride) and background park music from those classic MGM musicals.

 

[DavefanBen]

Ok Folks,

MGM and Disney originally partnered up because Disney wanted to extend its movie collection to show and use in the park.

About 5 years back MGM was nearly folding and going bankrupt. That is why if you remember for a brief period of time Disney started to fade in the name "Disney Studios" instead of "Disner-MGM Studios". However, at the last minute MGM and Disney made a deal to extend the contract, therefore securing Disney's right to show the movies.

It's a good thing too. GMR would have to be totally changed...

MGM's on big movies they have now are James Bond...

 

[QuickGold]

This page should be helpful: http://www.mgmstudios.org/history.html

 

[Tiggerlover91]

Originally posted by QuickGold
This page should be helpful: http://www.mgmstudios.org/history.html

Excellent article! Thanks!!

 

[WEDWDW]

QuickGold-Thanks for the link!Is it still being used as a production facility?

 

[DavefanBen]

Hey QuickGold, have you never stayed on property?

You really outta check it out. Of course, I dunno how old you are, whether you choose where you want to stay or not.

Good site by the way

 

[MouseClubMom]

I remember right before the Studios opened that there was some disagreement between Disney and MGM about the length of time of the Wizard of Oz scene so Disney had to cut part of the scene. The "Fantasia" scene was originally the tornado that took you to OZ.

 

[QuickGold]

Originally posted by DavefanBen
Hey QuickGold, have you never stayed on property?

You really outta check it out. Of course, I dunno how old you are, whether you choose where you want to stay or not.

Good site by the way

Haven't stayed on property yet....too expensive

 

[missypie]

Great question - I've wondered that as well. Note that the similar park at Disneyland Paris that opened in 2002 is simply called "Walt Disney Studios" park.