Microsoft's 'Halo' effect in Hollywood
Microsoft's "Halo" is hardly the first successful computer game to be made into a movie, but all the press surrounding the project would leave one to believe that it's a historic cinematic event. The real reason for its significance, however, will never appear on screen.
Microsoft has been negotiating for unprecedented control (and money) from its would-be Hollywood partners not simply for the kind of creative authority often sought by writers and actors; accounts of contract discussions with Universal and Fox make clear that it wanted to own the entire franchise around the "Halo" film, from sequels and licensing to clothing and action figures--constructing the kind of instant empire that Disney has elevated to an art form.
Hollywood studios learned long ago that byproducts of the franchise were essential to help defray the astronomical costs of making movies. And Microsoft is not about to turn over the keys to its own magic kingdom, especially after having invested so much in the marketing of the "Halo" brand. So unlike "Doom," "Mortal Kombat," "Lara Croft: Tomb Raider" and other cross-over movies, the true success of "Halo" may not become clear until long after the box office closes.
Blog community response:
"Most comic book and video game based movies are synonymous with, well, let me just say it, crap! Creators take them too seriously or, in most cases, not seriously enough. Thankfully, it seems Microsoft has no intention of letting 'Halo,' its video game crown jewel, fall into this category."
--The Daily Bauble
"So what about their property. I mean, after all, Halo 2 did take in over $125 million in its first day out. There are fans all over the world, rabid, loyal, and just as excited at the prospect of a movie. If...and ONLY IF..it's done right."
--Veritas: Truth in all its forms
"I'm not really sure how I feel about that. To me, Halo just isn't Halo if there is not copious amounts of shouting, swearing, and me snickering as I finally get the flag--one time out of ten."
--The View From Now
