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US
media conglomerate Disney is reorganising its film division. The
movie studio is looking to axe 650 employees in an effort to trim
$90 to $100 million from its annual bottom line.
One
of the first people to lose their jobs is Nina Jacobson who was
the head of the Walt Disney Motion Pictures Group.
Media
reports indicate that Disney Studio chairman Dick Cook had a conversation
with Jacobson. Jacobson's role will be taken up by Oren Aviv who
was the marketing and chief creative officer.
In
a statement Cook says, "Disney is the number one name in filmed
entertainment around the world. It's the name on the door, it's
what we do best, and when we do it right, not only do moviegoers
of all ages benefit from the finest in quality entertainment, but
it lifts the entire company as well. The depth and breadth of great
Disney movies range from Pirates of the Caribbean to Cars to
The Chronicles of Narnia and we look to expand our global reach
even more. Cutbacks such as these are difficult on so many levels,
and we will do everything in our power to make the transition as
smooth as possible."
As
had been reported earlier by Animation Xpress.com
that Disney is set to cut the number of films made each year from
18 to eight. What is interesting is that Jacobson had argued with
M Night Shyamalan about the script for his new film Lady in the
Water. The tepid reviews that the film is getting indicate that
her concerns were not misplaced. The relationship between Shyamalan
and Disney came to an end as a result of the dispute.
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