Netflix Pledges Warner Bros. Theatrical Releases; Industry Skeptical

• Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos promises Warner Bros. films will continue theatrical releases post-acquisition.
• Sarandos stated Netflix supports theatrical releases but rejects "long, exclusive windows," expecting cinematic windows to "evolve" to be more "consumer-friendly."
• The $82.7 billion acquisition of Warner Bros. by Netflix has raised concerns among cinema owners about the future of theatrical distribution.
• Skeptics fear Netflix may revert to a streaming-first model with limited theatrical runs once existing obligations expire.
• The long-term impact on traditional cinema-going is uncertain, though a "consumer-friendly" model could offer quicker home access to new films.

Why It Matters: Netflix's Warner Bros. deal impacts cinema's future and how films reach audiences.