Pixar aims to break Disney link

13 April 2012

ANIMATED film-maker Pixar, with growing market recognition in its own right, may break off its relationship with giant partner Disney and go it alone, if increasingly bitter negotiations to renew the contract fail.

The argument revolves around the relative strengths of the brand names.

Pixar originally needed Disney's enormous drawing power to promote its films but that situation is changing. An audience poll of Monsters, Inc, Pixar's 2001 success, suggested Pixar was a marginally stronger attraction than Disney.

Pixar chief Steve Jobs has already upgraded Pixar's position in the partnership at the last contract negotiation several years ago. Some Hollywood insiders believe this time he may choose to go for full independence.

It has strengthened its position with current box office hit Finding Nemo, which last month became the top grossing animation film ever.

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