Based on the recent Barbie director Greta GerwigUpcoming classics The Chronicles of Narnia series, these epic movies might just be the key to a relationship with Netflix and Imax.
The two companies are indeed in preliminary negotiations on related matters The Chronicles of Narnia. hollywood reporter One plan being discussed is reportedly to release images from the event during Thanksgiving 2026 and then make them available to subscribers over Christmas.
Whether that’s a long enough window for theater circuits to operate Imax auditoriums is a big question and a potential stumbling block.
News of Gerwig’s campaign has reopened old wounds and stoked anxiety among studios and the nation’s top movie theater chains.
The studio wouldn’t be happy if Imax made time during the holidays for a Netflix movie that doesn’t have a traditional window, which has been significantly shortened to 30 to 65 days in the post-pandemic era (smaller titles can Even go home early).
Those conversations began after Gerwig personally approached Imax. Sources say she eventually spoke directly to Imax CEO Rich Gelfond, whose big-screen credits include James Cameron and Christopher Nolan. Filmmakers such as Christopher Nolan.
OppenheimerAlthough Nolan is an adult historical drama, much of it was shot with Imax-certified cameras, and it has been a huge success on Imax screens.
Imax shares rose on Tuesday on news of Imax’s talks with Netflix, which co-CEO Ted Sarandos has long been reluctant to adhere to traditional theatrical windows, leaving investors including Martin Scorsese Filmmakers including Martin Scorsese were frustrated.
Netflix breaks its own precedent and offers Scorsese irish Exclusive releases, but not for long enough (Netflix started trying a year ago Romans).
Gelfond did not comment on the status of conversations with Netflix during Wednesday’s earnings call but did not refute reports. “In fact, as you know, directors, movie studios are leaning toward the Imax experience,” the CEO said. He added, “We are always innovating and finding new ways to eventize content.”
It’s unclear how far Imax would be willing to go in alienating its exhibition partners if it joined forces with Netflix.
Gerwig signs on to direct The Chronicles of Narnia Announced in early July 2023, a few weeks ago Barbie The film was a box office success upon its debut and became a cultural phenomenon, grossing over $1.44 billion at the box office. Needless to say, her influence has grown exponentially, and she seems eager to use that influence to bring The Chronicles of Narnia Go to the theater.
I think it would be a smart move for Imax to bet on a movie with broad appeal and epic scope. The Chronicles of Narniaespecially during the holidays. I look forward to seeing what Gerwig does with this story.
