Netflix Challenges French Media Chronology Rules in Court

The streaming giant seeks to reduce the 15-month theatrical release delay to 12 months without increasing its financial contribution to French cinema.

Netflix has filed a legal challenge with France's Conseil d’État to contest the media chronology rules formalized in February 2025.
The company aims to shorten the mandated 15-month delay between theatrical releases and streaming availability to 12 months.
Netflix has stated it will not increase its current annual contribution of 50 million euros to French cinema as part of this request.
The new rules were negotiated earlier this year and grant shorter delays to platforms like Canal+ (six months) and Disney+ (nine months) in exchange for higher investments in French and European cinema.
Netflix's legal action highlights ongoing tensions between streaming platforms and French regulators over balancing competitive streaming strategies with cultural funding obligations.