Netflix Still Doesn't Think Theaters Are Necessary, Despite Recent Success
The release of Stranger Things Season 5 in theaters on New Year's Eve marked a rare exception for the Netflix phenomenon. Despite being shown in only 620 theaters across North America, generating $25 million to $30 million in concession revenue, it appears that Netflix has not been swayed from its stance against theatrical releases.
This decision is largely due to contractual terms with the show's cast, which prevents the company from publicly disclosing box office figures. However, it seems that even without these numbers, Stranger Things remains a winner for theater chains like AMC. In fact, more than half of the show's fanbase opted for a cinematic experience over streaming.
One would think that this success story could be used to persuade Netflix to adopt a more traditional release strategy for its movies, particularly in light of its potential acquisition of Warner Bros.'s film library. However, according to sources close to Deadline, Netflix is considering a significantly shorter 17-day window for its films – less than half the standard 45-day period maintained by major studios and exhibitors alike.
This move would have far-reaching consequences for the movie theater industry, which relies on long theatrical runs to generate revenue. If Netflix were to implement such a short release window, it could "steamroll" the business model of cinemas everywhere, leading to devastating effects for exhibitors.
At present, Netflix is tight-lipped about its plans regarding Warner Bros., but it's likely that the company will reassess its stance on theatrical releases once the deal materializes. In the meantime, one thing is clear: the traditional movie theater experience remains an essential part of many fans' viewing habits, and Netflix would be wise to consider this when evaluating the best way to release its content.
The release of Stranger Things Season 5 in theaters on New Year's Eve marked a rare exception for the Netflix phenomenon. Despite being shown in only 620 theaters across North America, generating $25 million to $30 million in concession revenue, it appears that Netflix has not been swayed from its stance against theatrical releases.
This decision is largely due to contractual terms with the show's cast, which prevents the company from publicly disclosing box office figures. However, it seems that even without these numbers, Stranger Things remains a winner for theater chains like AMC. In fact, more than half of the show's fanbase opted for a cinematic experience over streaming.
One would think that this success story could be used to persuade Netflix to adopt a more traditional release strategy for its movies, particularly in light of its potential acquisition of Warner Bros.'s film library. However, according to sources close to Deadline, Netflix is considering a significantly shorter 17-day window for its films – less than half the standard 45-day period maintained by major studios and exhibitors alike.
This move would have far-reaching consequences for the movie theater industry, which relies on long theatrical runs to generate revenue. If Netflix were to implement such a short release window, it could "steamroll" the business model of cinemas everywhere, leading to devastating effects for exhibitors.
At present, Netflix is tight-lipped about its plans regarding Warner Bros., but it's likely that the company will reassess its stance on theatrical releases once the deal materializes. In the meantime, one thing is clear: the traditional movie theater experience remains an essential part of many fans' viewing habits, and Netflix would be wise to consider this when evaluating the best way to release its content.
they just rly need to rethink their strategy 2 theaters is not enough 4 a big show like stranger things especially wif all thos fans who r willing 2 shell out $$$ 2 watch it on the big screen 17 day window?? thats gonna crush cinemas 
i mean i get its probabely cost savings and all but come on 
cinemas are alrdy struggling, dont make it worse
... it's clear that a lot of fans still want to watch movies on the big screen, and for good reason - it's an immersive experience that can't be replicated online. 17 days just isn't enough time for most people to catch a movie, you know? I'm all for streaming convenience, but this short window thing could really hurt theaters that are already struggling to stay afloat 
... maybe Netflix should find a happy medium and give cinemas more of a chance to thrive? 
cinema experience is still a thing for many fans and ntflix should def consider dat when makin moves 
even tho netflix is being super stubborn about their theatrical plans lol what's up with that? and omg i just saw that half of the fanbase chose to watch it on the big screen and it's just SO cool!!! they really gotta reconsider their stance on this 
cinema lovers like me r already feeling the impact of all the new streaming services coming out & i dont think we want netflix to steamroll the movie industry lol lets just hope they change their minds about theaters 
. If they're gonna make movies, shouldn't they try to reach more people? I know some fans prefer the theatrical experience, and that's a valid thing 
.
. They gotta think about the bigger picture here 
. Theaters are an important part of pop culture, and Netflix should be like, "Okay, we get it" 
.
. Will they change their minds, or will they stick to their guns 
? Either way, I hope the fans win out in the end 
they're basically putting all their eggs in one streaming basket and its gonna be a disaster if they dont adapt to the times 
cinemas are where it's at for some fans, you gotta respect that 
. It'll be interesting to see how this whole situation unfolds and whether Netflix changes its tune after acquiring Warner Bros.'s film library 
. It's all about the benjamins, right? They gotta think about the bottom line, but at what cost 
. Netflix needs to consider this when they're planning their content release strategy... or else! 