- Netflix has clarified its stance on films landing in theaters amid its deal to buy Warner Bros.
- Company head Ted Sarandos rejected the idea that they'll only be available for a 17-day period
- Sarandos also disputed claims that he called the cinemagoing experience "outdated"
Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos has clarified the company's position on the theatrical release window model ahead of its potential acquisition of Warner Bros.
In an interview with The New York Times, Sarandos dispelled rumors that Netflix would shorten the time that new movies from Warner Bros. would spend in theaters. He emphasized that if Netflix's $82.7 billion deal to acquire Warner Bros. is approved, new films will remain in cinemas for the industry-standard 45 days.
Concerns about Netflix potentially changing the theatrical release model for Warner Bros. films first emerged in a Deadline article. The report suggested that Netflix favored a 17-day window, which could disrupt the theatrical business, while cinema chains like AMC advocate for a 45-day period.
This clarification comes shortly after Netflix reiterated its commitment to the traditional 45-day release window for Warner Bros. films. Sarandos stated, "Our intentions, when we buy Warner Bros., will be to continue to release Warner Bros. studio movies in theaters with the traditional windows."
Responding to skepticism from viewers regarding Netflix's commitment, Sarandos asserted, "I understand that folks are emotional about it because they love it and they don’t want it to go away. We haven’t changed our approach."
He further explained, "When this deal closes, we will own a theatrical distribution engine that is phenomenal and produces billions of dollars of theatrical revenue that we don’t want to put at risk. We will run that business largely like it is today, with 45-day windows. I’m giving you a hard number. If we’re going to be in the theatrical business, and we are, we’re competitive people – we want to win. I want to win opening weekend. I want to win [the] box office."
During the interview, Sarandos also addressed misconceptions about Netflix's view of the cinematic experience, stating, "I did not get in this business to hurt the theatrical business. I got into this business to help consumers, to help movie fans."
For more insights on Netflix, check out my review of The RIP, and stay updated on the latest news regarding Netflix's partnerships and film releases.