Hollywood studios follow a fashion set when it comes to releasing their content. Movies usually go up in theaters around the country, then they are offered on DVD and after a significant time, they make it to ‘on demand’ TV services. Netflix aims to change this by offering movies the same day they are released in theaters.
The idea was first floated during the company’s earnings call last week. Ted Sarandos, Netflix’s content head, stated that the company was interested in getting deeper into the movie business. Later on, in a speech, Sarandos revealed exactly what he meant by that.
According to him, “What we’re trying to do for TV, the model should extend pretty nicely to movies. Meaning, why not premiere movies on Netflix, the same day they’re opening in theaters? And not little movies — there’s a lot of ways, and lot of people to do that [already]. Why not big movies? Why not follow the consumers’ desire to watch things when they want?”
The idea sounds very interesting and without a doubt, many viewers would want Netflix to premiere movies the same time they are screened in theaters. The bigger question, though, is that how will Netflix woo Hollywood to agree to such a deal.
As it is, Hollywood hasn’t exactly been keen on changing its methods or distribution model over the years. The industry is currently stuck to the model where movies are initially available only in theaters and nowhere else. Netflix certainly stands to gain a lot if it could premiere ‘big’ movies, but will Hollywood accept a bargain where it may see its revenue from theaters erode?
It will take Netflix a lots of effort and time to pull off such an ambitious strategy. We will certainly keep an eye on this one but don’t get your hopes up just yet.
Courtesy: All Things D
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