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Following the announcement of Paramount Global's planned takeover of Warner Bros. Discovery, the first details regarding the strategy of the new film giant have emerged. One of the main assumptions is a significant increase in the number of cinema premieres. After the merger of both companies, the new group plans to release around 30 major films a year, with 15 productions from each studio. This is a clear increase compared to the current situation – in recent years, Paramount has been releasing an average of about 8-9 theatrical films annually, while Warner Bros. has released around 10-12.
Largest Franchises Under One Roof
If the transaction is approved by regulators, the new company will control many of the world's most recognisable film brands. The portfolio will include series such as Harry Potter, Mission: Impossible, The Lord of the Rings, as well as the DC Universe. Additionally, popular productions such as Game of Thrones, Transformers, Star Trek, and SpongeBob SquarePants will be part of it. Such a wide library of IP is expected to ensure a steady influx of high-budget productions to cinemas.
Cinemas still important minimum 45 days exclusivity
Paramount has also announced the maintenance of the classic model of film distribution. Each production is to receive a minimum of 45 days of exclusive presence in cinemas before it goes to digital distribution (VOD). In practice, this means that the biggest productions can remain on the big screen for 60-90 days before appearing on streaming platforms such as HBO Max or Paramount+. This approach is in contrast to the strategy of Netflix, which often releases films directly for streaming.
However, not all analysts believe that the plan is realistic. Some industry experts think that 30 major premieres a year may be difficult to maintain. Organisations related to the cinema industry also emphasise that large studio mergers often lead to a decrease in the number of films produced, rather than an increase.
If Paramount's acquisition of Warner Bros is approved, it will create one of the largest players in the history of the film industry. The plan for 30 theatrical releases per year could significantly impact the future of Hollywood and cinemas worldwide. For now, however, everything depends on the decision of regulators and whether the studios can actually maintain such an ambitious production pace.
Source: FlatpanelsHD
