Filmmakers Urge Firmness Against Netflix-Warners Deal
At the recent Red Sea International Film Festival in Saudi Arabia, acclaimed filmmaker Sean Baker addressed the film industry’s response to the significant Netflix and Warner Bros. deal. The Oscar-winning director emphasized the need for stronger theatrical windows rather than their reduction.
Filmmakers Advocate for Stronger Theatrical Releases
Baker, who is serving as the head of the competition jury at the festival, voiced his concerns during a public conversation. He criticized the current trend toward shorter theatrical releases, claiming they undermine the significance of film. “When you go straight to streaming or choose a day-and-date release, it diminishes the importance of a film,” Baker stated.
He advocates for a minimum of 100-day theatrical exclusivity for films, suggesting that this period allows filmmakers to secure more revenue before moving to streaming platforms. “That feels like a good amount at this moment,” he remarked.
Calls to Action for Audiences
Baker also highlighted the responsibility of film lovers to support theatres. He warned that audiences could lose access to cinemas if they do not actively engage in the theatrical experience. Furthermore, he noted how his recent successful film, Anora, attracted a significant audience from the Gen Z demographic, countering the narrative that young people are not interested in cinemas.
Impact of Netflix’s Acquisition
Netflix’s ambitious $72 billion deal for Warner Bros. has caused upheaval within Hollywood. Critics worry that this acquisition will centralize power in the film industry under a dominant streaming provider. Following dismissive comments from Netflix’s co-CEO, Ted Sarandos, regarding theatrical releases, the future of cinema seems uncertain.
- Deal Value: $72 billion
- Theatrical Window Suggested: 100 days
- Box Office for Anora: $57.4 million worldwide
- Domestic Gross: $20.5 million
- International Gross: $36.9 million
Continuing to Create
Despite the challenges, Baker remains optimistic about the future of cinema. He intends to maintain his low-budget filmmaking approach, emphasizing quality over budget size. “The opportunities are there — whether I take them or not, that’s the question,” he admitted. Baker expressed his commitment to creating films within the same budgetary constraints as his previous works, focusing on storytelling and collaboration.
As the film industry faces an evolving landscape with streaming giants, the voices of filmmakers like Sean Baker are essential. By advocating for a stronger theatrical experience, they seek to preserve the essence of cinema for future generations.
