...is one of the most bodacious selling points of Spread, the Shampoo-style sex comedy that everyone thought would sell quickly after Saturday night’s premiere, even if they didn’t think the film was all that great. There his back end was, parading around the screen, thrusting on to Anne Heche and various other naked ladies his wannabe-gigolo character beds.

Ironically, Kutcher’s back end is also one big-ass factor that could be slowing a sale. Back end as in profit participation, that is. Despite widespread agreement the film has the appeal for a widespread theatrical release, not to mention video and Skinamax, it appears to be too high for even some big buyers.

(This isn’t always a stumbling block: Senator Entertainment was happy to pony up significant back end – plus just under $5 million, plus a $10 million p&a commitment – for some of the talent behind the under-$20 million Brooklyn’s Finest.)

Summit Entertainment was one of several upstart distribs to make a distribution deal offer, but sales reps thought it was low (low seven figures, rumor has it). Perhaps Kutcher’s wife Demi felt there were indecently low proposals and advised him against them, but whatever the reason, it’s led to sales reps CAA and Endeavor (the latter has taken pride in extended bidding periods) to not put out. Summit has since withdrawn interest, but may get back into bed with negotiations at some point if another distrib doesn’t pony up for Kutcher’s back end (and a higher MG) beforehand.