Overview
- Deadline reporting says Netflix has advocated a roughly 17-day exclusive run for Warner Bros. films before streaming, though no policy has been finalized.
- Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos reaffirmed support for theatrical releases and said release windows will evolve, noting that WB titles already slated for theaters will continue to open there.
- Major theater chains, including AMC, favor about 45 days of exclusivity, and exhibitor group Cinema United called the proposed deal a threat to the exhibition business.
- The transaction, reported in December at about $82.7 billion, has drawn calls for close regulatory examination from industry stakeholders.
- Industry commentary warns shortened windows could strip a significant share of annual box-office revenue, and past critiques from filmmakers such as Christopher Nolan underscore creative concerns.