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Netflix is making a groundbreaking decision that could change the way films are released on the platform. The upcoming film Narnia: The Magician's Nephew will first hit cinemas and will be subject to a standard 45-day exclusivity window. This is the first time that Netflix has agreed to such a long delay for the streaming premiere of its own major production, something that seemed unthinkable until recently.
Netflix changes its approach to cinemas
Until now, Netflix treated cinemas mainly as a formality; short, limited screenings were primarily for qualification for awards. Now the situation looks completely different. "Narnia" will first appear in IMAX and wide theatrical distribution, and only after about 45 days will it be available on the platform. This means that viewers will have to wait over a month from the theatrical release before the film is available online. This move suggests that Netflix is starting to see cinemas as an important element of its strategy, rather than just an addition. It may also be the result of earlier discussions with cinema operators and attempts to delve deeper into the traditional film market.
Greta Gerwig and the grand ambitions of the project
The change is also driven by Greta Gerwig, who is responsible for directing and producing the film. It is her approach to the project that convinced Netflix to adopt a more "cinematic" distribution model. "Narnia" is set to be a large-scale event with an IMAX premiere and a global reach that goes beyond typical streaming productions. At the same time, this decision may be challenging for the platform's subscribers, who fund the productions and have become accustomed to quick access to new releases. Now they will need to muster some patience, which could provoke mixed reactions.
Netflix is taking a step towards cinema and changing its distribution strategy. "Narnia" could be the beginning of a new approach, where big productions first hit the big screen and only later move to streaming.
source: flatpanelshd
