James Cameron Slams Netflix in Latest Statement

James Cameron is voicing his deep concerns regarding the potential $82.7 billion merger between Netflix and Warner Bros. Discovery. The legendary filmmaker behind Avatar and Titanic recently sent a formal letter to Utah Senator Mike Lee, who chairs the Senate subcommittee on antitrust.

In the letter, Cameron argues that allowing a dominant streaming giant to take control of one of Hollywood’s most historic film and TV studios could have a catastrophic impact on the industry. Cameron emphasized that his nearly five-decade career has been dedicated to the preservation of the theatrical experience.

He noted that the cinema marketplace has already suffered a 30% contraction due to shifting consumption habits following the pandemic. In his view, the proposed sale would be disastrous for the theatrical motion picture business that serves as a vital pillar of global culture.

The director highlighted the fundamental difference in business models between the two entities. He pointed out that Netflix executives have previously referred to movie theaters as an outdated concept and an outmoded idea.

Cameron argued that because Netflix’s core mission is to keep viewers on its platform, its goals are directly at odds with the theatrical film production and exhibition business. One of the most contentious points of the merger is the theatrical release window for future Warner Bros. films.

While Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos has suggested a 17-day window, Cameron dismissed this as a token window that is grotesquely insufficient. He noted that current industry standards typically require a minimum of 45 days and a commitment to thousands of screens to be truly effective.

Furthermore, Cameron warned that any current promises to support theaters might eventually evaporate in a few years. He believes that once the merger is finalized and the initial scrutiny fades, the streaming giant will likely prioritize its digital library over the survival of brick-and-mortar cinemas.

This shift would impact not just the major studios but the tens of thousands of employees who work in local theaters across the country. Actor and activist Mark Ruffalo joined the conversation on social media, questioning whether the opposition is specific to Netflix or the idea of a monopoly in general.

He suggested that it would be very interesting for the film community to hear if Cameron and Senator Lee have similar reservations about the rival bid from Paramount. Ruffalo expressed concern that either deal might consolidate power among too few players, rather than making sure our business continues to work for the many and not the few.

Have something to add? Share your thoughts in the comments.