According to the recent surrounding discussion Barbie director Greta Gerwigis the imminent undertaking of the classic Chronicles of Narnia series, these epic films might just be the key to trading a relationship for Netflix and Imax.
The two companies are in fact in preliminary negotiations on the matter Narnia. The Hollywood journalist reports that one plan under discussion is to release the event image during Thanksgiving 2026 before making it available to its subscribers during Christmas.
Whether this would be a long enough window to satisfy the theater circuits that operate Imax auditoriums is the big question and potential obstacle.
News of Gerwig’s campaign has reopened old wounds and sparked angst among both studios and the country’s major film circuits.
Studios won’t be happy if Imax carves out time during the holiday season for a Netflix movie that doesn’t have a traditional window, which has already shrunk dramatically in the post-pandemic era from 30 to 65 days (smaller titles can go to home even before).
The conversations originated after Gerwig personally approached Imax. Sources say he eventually spoke directly to Imax CEO Rich Gelfond, whose large-format screens are revered by filmmakers including James Cameron and Christopher Nolan.
Oppenheimerwhich Nolan shot largely on Imax-certified cameras, did big business on Imax screens despite being an adult historical drama.
Imax shares jumped Tuesday on news of talks between Imax and Netflix, where co-CEO Ted Sarandos has long been reluctant to stick to a traditional theatrical window, much to the frustration of filmmakers, including Martin Scorsese.
Netflix broke its own precedent by distributing Scorsese The Irish an exclusive release, but it wasn’t long enough yet (Netflix had started experimenting a year earlier). Rome).
During an earnings call Wednesday, Gelfond did not comment on the status of conversations with Netflix, but did not deny the reports. “In fact, as you know, filmmakers and studios are all moving towards the Imax experience,” the CEO said. He added, “we are always innovative and looking for new approaches to organizing content.”
It’s unclear how far Imax would be willing to go in terms of alienating its exhibition partners if it joined forces with Netflix.
Gerwig’s deal to direct Narnia it was announced in early July 2023, weeks early Barbie opened at the box office and turned into a cultural phenomenon, grossing over $1.44 billion. Her power, needless to say, has increased exponentially and she seems eager to use it to push forward Narnia to theatres.
I think it would be a smart move for Imax to bet on a film with such broad appeal and epic scope The Chronicles of Narniaespecially during the Christmas holidays. I can’t wait to see what Gerwig does with the story.
by Jessica Fisher
Source: Geek Tyrant
Lloyd Grunewald is an author at “The Fashion Vibes”. He is a talented writer who focuses on bringing the latest entertainment-related news to his readers. With a deep understanding of the entertainment industry and a passion for writing, Lloyd delivers engaging articles that keep his readers informed and entertained.
