Streaming Giant Commits to Cinema Screenings Amid Potential $70 Billion Warner Bros. Deal
Netflix has informed Warner Bros. Discovery that if it successfully acquires the studio, it will continue releasing Warner Bros. films in movie theaters, reaffirming its commitment to theatrical distribution despite industry shifts toward streaming.
Sources familiar with the ongoing talks relay that Netflix intends to honor Warner Bros.’ existing contractual agreements with theaters, thereby ensuring the studio’s films continue to have traditional theatrical runs.
This assurance is part of Netflix’s bid to address concerns from filmmakers, theater chains, and industry stakeholders worried about the impact of a streaming giant owning a major movie studio.
Warner Bros. Discovery’s board is currently evaluating multiple acquisition offers, including competing bids from Paramount Skydance, Comcast, and Netflix, with initial bids due November 20, 2025.
Analysts view Netflix’s promise to maintain theatrical releases as a strategic step to smooth regulatory scrutiny and retain industry goodwill during the acquisition process.
The deal, potentially one of the biggest in entertainment history, would give Netflix control of iconic franchises such as Harry Potter, DC Universe, and HBO Originals.
Netflix reportedly plans to keep Warner Bros.’ theatrical releases while gradually integrating them with its streaming platform, balancing traditional and digital distribution.
The studio’s recent theatrical releases, including James Gunn’s “Superman” and “The Conjuring: Last Rites,” have collectively grossed over $750 million worldwide in 2025, underscoring the continued viability of cinema box office revenues.
Netflix’s commitment marks a significant shift from previous positions focusing primarily on streaming-first releases, highlighting evolving strategic priorities in Hollywood.
