Netflix’s Rumored Controversial Plan Gives Warner Bros Movies Too Few Days in Theaters
Netflix is facing criticism from theater owners over how long it plans to keep Warner Bros. movies in cinemas. As the streaming giant moves closer to completing its acquisition of Warner Bros., exhibitors are pushing for a clear commitment to traditional theatrical releases.
Many fear Netflix could drastically shorten the time films spend on the big screen.
The company recently rolled out the “Stranger Things” finale in theaters, which some industry insiders see as a test run and a way to smooth relations with cinemas.
Despite this, Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos has avoided giving firm answers on the length of future theatrical windows. He told the press, “There’s been a lot of talk about theatrical distribution, so we want to set the record straight: we are 100% committed to releasing Warner Bros. films in theaters with industry-standard windows.”
Hollywood, however, is skeptical. Sources familiar with Netflix’s plans told Deadline that the streamer may only keep films in theaters for 17 days after acquiring Warner Bros.
This is far shorter than the roughly 45-day window that major chains like AMC typically insist on.
Critics warn that such a move could harm the traditional movie business and limit the cultural impact of blockbuster films.
Sarandos has previously described theatrical releases as “an outmoded idea” and suggested that watching films on streaming platforms can be just as impactful as seeing them in theaters.
He also called big-budget theatrical releases “inefficient” compared to streaming. Many see this as part of a broader strategy to shift movie consumption toward Netflix and other streaming services.
The debate has sparked tension between Netflix and Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav, who stands to benefit financially from the acquisition. Some insiders argue that Zaslav’s focus on profits has already reduced the influence of traditional cinema.
Have something to add? Let us know in the comments!