Netflix has acquired Warner Bros. Discovery’s film studio and streaming service, beating out other bidders like Paramount Skydance and Comcast. This move has left traditional movie theater operators anxious as Netflix has not followed conventional theatrical distribution practices. Cinema United opposes the sale, fearing a decline in films available for cinemas and annual box office ticket sales.

Concerns are growing in the industry over Netflix’s acquisition of Warner Bros. assets. Exhibitors worry about fewer theatrical releases and shorter theatrical windows. This consolidation trend has been seen before with Disney’s purchase of 20th Century Fox in 2019. Netflix plans to continue Warner Bros. releases in theaters before moving to streaming, but the impact on the industry remains uncertain.

With Netflix’s focus on streaming, the future of theatrical releases is in question. The industry has struggled post-pandemic, and the potential decline in films available to cinemas poses a significant threat. Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos plans to maintain Warner Bros.’ current practices but may push for shorter exclusive theatrical windows, worrying theater owners about the future landscape of the industry.

Read more at CNBC: Netflix-Warner Bros. film deal throws theater industry into upheaval