Warner Bros’ future as a theatrical force is under threat, with Netflix reportedly looking to narrow the time its films sit in cinemas. Already, 2026 is shaping up to be a pivotal year in the history of cinema, with the ongoing future of Warner Bros central to conversations. As you more than likely know, at ... Warner Bros films pointing towards 17 days in cinemas under Netflix
Warner Bros’ future as a theatrical force is under threat, with Netflix reportedly looking to narrow the time its films sit in cinemas.
Already, 2026 is shaping up to be a pivotal year in the history of cinema, with the ongoing future of Warner Bros central to conversations. As you more than likely know, at the end of last year, Netflix secured an agreement to purchase Warner Bros, although Paramount owner Skydance is still trying to get in the way of that.
However, Netflix is still in pole position, and famously headed up by a man – Ted Sarandos – who feels that cinemas are outmoded and something of an inconvenience. He’s altered his language when it comes to trying to get the Warner Bros deal over the metaphorical line, but there’s still a sneaking suspicion he’s going to pay lip service to theatrical releases at best.
Against a backdrop then of Warner Bros films leading the charge for major awards this season, Deadline is now reporting that Netflix would look to move to a 17 day theatrical window for Warner Bros films. This is at a point when cinemas are looking for a minimum of 45 days.
Nothing official has come out about this of course, and it’s very much based on sources nattering to the outlet without putting their names to things. But still: few are expecting the full Warner Bros commitment to a solid cinema release surviving the sale to such an aggressive streaming service. And that’s even before we consider what’ll happen to its physical media output.
Cinema chains are obviously watching this eagerly and with some trepidation, and I do wonder if it’s going to need high profile filmmakers to hold the line, to at least guarantee good theatrical releases for their films. We’re already seeing Anora’s Sean Baker wanting a 100 day window for his next film, and I wonder how many will follow his lead.
Taxing times all round then, as extremely rich people get extremely richer, no matter what the artistic collateral damage. Happy new year!
