Roaring into China

Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Studios Inc. has signed a licensing agreement with two Chinese firms to develop and construct MGM Studio World, a lifestyle entertainment/retail center built around the Hollywood studio’s brand and intellectual properties.

The 200,000-square-foot complex will be located in the Changfeng Ecological Business District in Shanghai. It will be an indoor venue, combining dining, retailing, night-time venues and entertainment. The complex is slated to be unveiled in the summer of 2010, to coincide with the World’s Fair Expo in Shanghai.

The studio’s properties include James Bond, Rocky, Pink Panther, Stargate and The Thomas Crown Affair, along with a library of classic films and television programs. According to initial designs plans, the historic MGM logo of a roaring lion will be prominently displayed at the entrances to the complex.

Large, colorful images will be selected from the studio’s film library of approximately 4000 titles and incorporated into the complex's décor. It will also house a central plaza featuring a multimedia show incorporating water features, special effects and films from MGM’s library.

“Given our studio’s rich history, MGM is synonymous with Hollywood and we are excited to bring this experience to consumers in Shanghai, which is one of the most dynamic cities in the world, says Harry E. Sloan, MGM’s chairman and ceo. “MGM Studio World is the first step in bridging traditional Hollywood entertainment with China’s film and television industry in the region. We are looking forward to utilizing this project as a way to build strong partnerships with China in the future.”

While MGM will not make any financial investments in the project or operate it, the studio will serve as the licensor and creative collaborator for the entire project. Developers of the project are Hong Kong’s Tengxun Entertainment and Management Ltd. and Shanghai’s Tianhong Real Estate Investment Co. Ltd.