Miramax chiefs to buy Moore docu 'Fahrenheit 9/11' from Disney

Miramax chiefs to buy Moore docu 'Fahrenheit 9/11' from Disney

miramax

MUMBAI: Miramax chiefs Harvey and Bob Weinstein are preparing a deal to personally buy Michael Moore's award winning documentary Fahrenheit 9/11.

Hollywood studio Miramax, a subsidiary of Disney, had funded the Bush-bashing documentary that won the prestigious Palme d'Or, the top prize at France's Cannes film festival this year.

It is learnt that, Weinsteins would look for a distribution deal once the movie lands in their lap. Disney chief executive Michael Eisner had refused to distribute the movie sighting its politically sensitive treatment.

Now the latest developments saw Eisner giving a go-ahead to the Weinsteins to personally buy the movie and then look for distributors. Distribution rights for the film could go for $5 million to $10 million.

The documentary harshly criticizes US President George W Bush's handling of the war in Iraq. Moore's documentary Bowling for Columbine had won an Oscar two years ago.

Bowling For Columbine took in $22 million domestically at the box office, and $40 million worldwide. Overall, including DVD and pay TV sales, it brought in some $120 million. Analysts say the movie has got potential to match or surpass Bowling For Columbine's business.