Disney axes 650 global film jobs

Johnny Depp returns as Captain Jack Sparrow in the Disney sequel

US entertainment giant Disney is to cut 650 jobs worldwide as part of plans to produce fewer adult-oriented films and concentrate on family blockbusters.

The firm is to reduce its film output from about 18 to 12 movies a year, with only two or three from adult-oriented subsidiary Touchstone Pictures.

Touchstone releases do not match Disney films' profits or provide the same marketing tie-ins, the company said.

The Pirates of the Caribbean sequel has been a huge success for Disney.

A hit like Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest can spawn other products including video games and action figures.

Expensive flops

"When we do it right, not only do moviegoers of all ages benefit from the finest in quality entertainment, but it lifts the entire company as well," Walt Disney Studios chairman Dick Cook said.

Among those leaving the company will be Walt Disney Motion Pictures Group president Nina Jacobson, who had been in charge of live-action films for 10 years.

Recent Touchstone films have included the box office flops The Alamo and The Ladykillers.

Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man's Chest has become the most popular film of the year so far in North America, while also topping the UK and Ireland box office chart.