X17 Industry Wrap

Avatar Pulled From Screens To Make Way For Chinese Film
The Chinese government has pulled Avatar from 1,628 2-D screens to make way for a Chinese produced film about the philosopher Confucius starring Chow-Yun Fat.

A Hong Kong newspaper said the move was in response to propaganda officials who are concerned that the film is drawing too much attention to the parallel issue of forced evictions some Chinese are currently suffering to make way for make way for high rises.

Despite Chinese withdrawal, Avatar is on track to surpass Titanic as the most successful film of all-time later this week.


Simon Cowell Inks Five-Year Deal With Sony
Simon Cowell has struck a five-year deal with Sony that will combine his television properties, The X Factor and America's Got Talent with his musical acts Leona Lewis, Susan Boyle and Il Divo.

The deal, reports THR, will give Cowell back 50% of his production company, Syco, that was previously controlled by Sony in exchange for a partnership in future television, music and new media properties.


Saw VI Director Signs On For Paranormal Activity Sequel
Paramount has tapped Saw VI writer Michael R. Perry and director Kevin Greutert to write and direct the sequel to their surprise hit, Paranormal Activity.

Heat Vision reports that the duo behind the original film, Jason Blum and Oren Peli, will serve as producers.

Ironically, Paramount plans to premiere the sequel on the pre-Halloween weekend, where it will go up against Saw VII.