😱 Theaters Frightened by Netflix–WBD Merger

They argue that the Warner Bros. acquisition by streaming giant Netflix would lead to an “economic and cultural catastrophe.”

The merger would reduce the number of films released in theaters. Investors fear that Netflix would simply “ban” big premieres on its platform.

Traditionally, streaming deals begin 90–100 days after a film’s premiere. Netflix is pushing for a 45-day window, which experts say would kill theater revenue and cost the industry jobs.

If the deal is approved, control over production and distribution would be concentrated in the hands of one dominant platform. Even if the buyer isn’t Netflix—for example, Paramount—this could concentrate up to 40% of the market in a single set of hands.

💬 “Consolidation always leads to fewer films,” summarized Cinema United.