Universal President Ron Meyer is feeling bullish about the studio in advance of Universal's 100th anniversary.
In an email to staff, Meyer said that the studio is planning a year-long campaign that will include special events, a theme park component and the restoration of films from the library.
Meyer said plans will also include the launch of a new audio visual and print logo
"Throughout Universal's hundred years, we've created films that have touched the hearts of millions, and fostered our culture's love affair with cinema," Meyer said. "Some films have been more successful than others, but all of them have a place in our history."
That's a bit of a change from comments the outspoken Meyer made at the Savannah Film Festival earlier in November when he created a media storm by saying "We make a lot of shitty movies. Every one of them breaks my heart."
Meyer said in a statement that media reports failed to acknowledge that he also said that the studio made a great many quality films such as "United 93."
"I'm confident that we'll continue to pursue the best version of every film we greenlight in keeping with our rich 100 year tradition," Meyer said in a statement.
Universal's centennial plans will be unveiled in January.
Here's the full text of the email to staff:
As many of you already know, Universal will mark its 100th Anniversary in 2012. This is a proud and exciting moment for our company, which celebrates the studio's rich history and cultural impact. In January, we're going to be unveiling an extensive year-long campaign that includes a significant restoration commitment for some of our most beloved films, fan engagement through special events, a home entertainment offering, theme park activities, promotions, and fun social media and web outreaches. All of this is designed to connect a new audience to our extraordinary library of films, as well as bring these memories back to longtime movie lovers. Part of our centennial celebration includes the launch of a new audio visual and print logo which we will unveil early next year.
Throughout Universal's hundred years, we've created films that have touched the hearts of millions, and fostered our culture's love affair with cinema. Some films have been more successful than others, but all of them have a place in our history.
The strength of Universal, as with any company, is the talent of its team. We're fortunate to have an incredible group of individuals as well as gifted filmmakers who are at the heart of this studio.
We want to thank all of you—from our longest serving employees to our newest employees—as all of us have a role to play in preserving and continuing the iconic legacy of this studio.
In 2012, we will be honoring our past, and celebrating our future.
