HOLLYWOOD, June 23 (UPI) -- One of Hollywood's most bankable directors, M. Night Shyamalan, gives an an account of his turbulent relationship with Disney in a book set for release July 20.
In "The Man Who Heard Voices: Or, How M. Night Shyamalan Risked His Career on a Fairy Tale," the filmmaker sharply criticizes executives at Disney where he produced four films, including "The Sixth Sense."
The day after the book's release, Shyamalan's latest film, "Lady in the Water," will hit theaters. The $70-million movie, which was at the heart of his final dispute with Disney, was ultimately financed by Warner Bros., the Los Angeles Times reported.
Disney production chief Nina Jacobson had harshly critiqued the "Lady in the Water" script, saying she didn't "get" the concept.
Shyamalan alleges Disney is only interested in making money and does not support individualism or creativity.
Sports Illustrated writer Michael Bamberger penned the book, which he calls "Night-centric." Bamberger said he channeled "Shyamalan's deepest convictions."
But Bamberger also wrote that Shyamalan ultimately realized that "it wasn't Nina's fault that she didn't 'get' the original 'Lady' script, it was Night's fault."
Jacobson defended her actions, saying, "For us, being honest is the greatest show of respect for a filmmaker."
