Zach Cregger’s ‘The Flood’ Hits Snag at Netflix Over Theatrical Release
The clash stems from Netflix’s streaming-first stance that excludes a guaranteed theatrical run.
Overview
- Three insiders say the sci‑fi project is in limbo after Ted Sarandos rejected a theatrical release and Cregger insisted on a big‑screen debut.
- Two other insiders dispute a stall, saying talks continue and describing the film as in active development.
- Netflix Films chief Dan Lin traveled to Prague over the summer to court Cregger and reportedly dangled a theatrical commitment.
- Sarandos recently reaffirmed that Netflix prioritizes exclusive first‑run streaming, with only occasional limited theatrical outings like KPop Demon Hunters and Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein.
- Netflix plans 2026 theatrical events including a Stranger Things finale rollout in cinemas and an IMAX run for Greta Gerwig’s Narnia, as Cregger’s Weapons box‑office success ($267 million worldwide) increases interest in his next move.