LOS ANGELES, Oct. 15 (UPI) -- The Walt Disney Co., reportedly is ending its partnership with Miramax co-founders Bob and Harvey Weinstein after months of conflict between the parties.
The Weinsteins, who sold their successful independent film studio to Disney in 1993 but retained some creative control, received a "notification of non-extension" for their Disney contract, Britain's Telegraph reported Friday.
Although tbe current contract extends to next September, a new deal would have to be signed by March.
The Weinsteins, responsible for "Pulp Fiction," "The English Patient" and "Good Will Hunting," reportedly have asked to buy back Miramax from Disney and Wall Street sources claim the brothers sought funding to start a new studio if they part ways with Disney, the Telegraph said.
Tensions peaked earlier this year over the release of "Fahrenheit 9/11," when Disney chief Michael Eisner refused to distribute the anti-Bush documentary. The Weinsteins, apart from Disney, funded distribution of the film themselves.
Miramax released a statement in response to news of the notification of non-extension.
"Bob and Harvey hope for an amicable resolution that will allow them to continue to be productive members of the Disney family."
Disney declined to comment.
