😡 James Cameron vs. Netflix

The filmmaker believes Netflix’s business model is fundamentally at odds with theatrical distribution. In his view, the streaming giant only creates the illusion of theatrical releases (for awards purposes), while in reality it will reduce both the number of films produced and the number of jobs.

Cameron is skeptical about Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos’ promise to keep Warner Bros. films in theaters for 45 days. He is convinced that as soon as the deal closes, Netflix will shrink this theatrical “window” to the bare minimum.

Sarandos hit back, accusing Cameron of taking part in a “disinformation campaign” orchestrated by rival studio Paramount.

Sarandos stated that he has never planned to cut theatrical runs to 17 days and reaffirmed his commitment to the 45‑day window.

Netflix is focusing on investments in the United States: in 2026, the company plans to spend 20 billion dollars on content production, bringing shoots back from overseas to American soil.

For now, WBD is leaning toward a deal with Netflix (valued at 83 billion dollars), while Paramount has mounted an aggressive counteroffensive by offering to buy shares at 30 dollars apiece. The WBD board of directors has paused until February 23 to review Paramount’s proposal, but the shareholder vote on the Netflix deal is still scheduled for March 20.

The fate of franchises like Harry Potter, Batman and other Warner Bros. properties now depends not only on money, but also on antitrust regulators and the stance of U.S. President Donald Trump.