Apatow, Universal pact (THR, VAR)
By Nancy Tartaglione
Today's trades report Judd Apatow has signed a new deal with Universal to write and direct three films. This weekend marks the debut of Apatow's latest - and only his third - directing effort, "Funny People." The film - at 2.5 hours and costing a reported $75 million - and the subsequent deal with Universal confirm the studio's faith in the filmmaker. "It was a true mutual enthusiasm to really cement a relationship," said Universal Pictures chairman David Linde.
The deal allows Apatow to produce projects elsewhere. The prolific producer has made six movies at Columbia while his producing output at Universal has consisted of "Forgetting Sarah Marshall" and "Get Him to the Greek."
All of Apatow's directing efforts have been housed at Universal.
His first time out as helmer, 2005's "The 40-Year-Old Virgin," helped make Steve Carell a star, grossing $177 million worldwide.
Two years later, "Knocked Up" shone a spotlight on Seth Rogen and made more than $219 million worldwide.
"He has become a cornerstone for what this company prides itself on, which is excellence in comedies," Linde said.
Apatow has not yet committed to his next directing vehicle.
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