Netflix is facing sharp criticism from cinema operators. The backlash targets its upcoming “Narnia” film. The streamer plans an exclusive two-week IMAX run before streaming. This decision has angered major theater chains.
Vue Entertainment, a leading European operator, publicly condemned the move. Its CEO called the plan restrictive and damaging. The film is scheduled for a Thanksgiving 2026 release.
Vue CEO Slams “Restrictive Model” as Harmful to Industry
Vue CEO Tim Richards voiced strong objections in a letter. He stated the deal would limit the film’s reach drastically. According to his comments, “Narnia” will not play on 99% of global cinema screens.
Richards argued only IMAX theaters breaking traditional release windows will show it. He claimed IMAX threatened other operators with a “nuclear option.” This refers to pressure to accept the shortened exclusive run.
The CEO warned of long-term damage. He said IMAX and Netflix might see a short-term gain. But the wider film industry and global audiences would ultimately lose. Millions of families would be deprived of a theatrical experience.
Broader Industry Impact and Release Window Tensions
This dispute highlights the ongoing battle over release windows. Traditional chains rely on a long exclusive theatrical period. Streaming giants increasingly experiment with hybrid models.
Netflix’s deal directly challenges that status quo. Richards accused IMAX of encouraging other filmmakers to follow suit. This, he warned, risks undermining the entire theatrical ecosystem.
The success of a film in theaters often fuels its later performance on streaming. Shrinking the exclusive window could disrupt this synergy. The “Narnia” deal is now a flashpoint in this evolving conflict.
The exclusive Netflix Narnia IMAX deal has clearly struck a nerve. It sets a contentious precedent for how major event films are released, pitting streaming innovation against theatrical tradition.
Info at your fingertips
What is Netflix’s plan for the new Narnia movie?
Netflix plans a very limited theatrical release. The film will play exclusively in IMAX theaters for just two weeks around Thanksgiving 2026. After that, it will move directly to the Netflix streaming platform.
Why are theater chains upset about this deal?
Chains like Vue say it breaks the traditional theatrical window. It limits the movie to less than 1% of global screens. They argue it deprives most audiences of seeing it in a cinema and hurts industry revenue.
What did the Vue CEO say about IMAX?
Vue CEO Tim Richards stated IMAX is encouraging a restrictive model. He claimed IMAX threatened theaters with a “nuclear option” if they didn’t agree to the short window. He believes this strategy risks the wider theatrical business.
When is the Narnia movie scheduled for release?
The film is currently scheduled for a release over the Thanksgiving holiday in 2026. This timing targets a major family movie-going period, making the limited screen access more controversial for exhibitors.
জুমবাংলা নিউজ সবার আগে পেতে Follow করুন জুমবাংলা গুগল নিউজ, জুমবাংলা টুইটার , জুমবাংলা ফেসবুক, জুমবাংলা টেলিগ্রাম এবং সাবস্ক্রাইব করুন জুমবাংলা ইউটিউব চ্যানেলে।
