Netflix has confirmed that Warner Bros. films will remain in cinemas for 45 days before becoming available on streaming. The decision follows industry concern surrounding Netflix’s planned acquisition of Warner Bros. studios and HBO Max.
Theatrical Strategy Confirmed
Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos addressed the company’s approach to theatrical releases, stating that cinemas will remain central to Warner Bros.’ distribution strategy.
“When this deal closes, we will own a theatrical distribution engine that is phenomenal and produces billions of dollars,” Sarandos said.
“We will run that business largely like it is today, with 45-day windows. I want to win opening weekend. I want to win box office.”
Cinema Economics Reassessed
Sarandos also addressed assumptions around cinema profitability, saying:
“The general economics of the theatrical business were more positive than we had modelled.”
Netflix, traditionally built around direct-to-streaming releases, has already experimented with theatrical runs. These include screenings for the Stranger Things finale and limited cinema releases for KPop Demon Hunters.
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