The end of big-screen cinema? What Netflix hopes to achieve by buying Warner Bros | Andrew Pulver

Netflix's purchase of Warner Bros has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry, raising questions about the future of big-screen cinema as we know it. The deal marks a significant shift in power dynamics, with a streaming giant acquiring one of Hollywood's most iconic studios.

At first glance, Netflix may seem to be content with simply offering successful intellectual property (IP) like DC Universe movies and Game of Thrones. However, beneath the surface lies a more complex strategy. Netflix has long sought to win over critical acclaim, including the coveted Academy Award for best picture. Despite its successes in TV production, the platform has struggled to produce feature films that resonate with mainstream audiences.

The acquisition of Warner Bros is seen as a bold move by Netflix to tap into the machinery of creating blockbuster hits. The company has consistently failed to achieve this goal on its own, with high-profile flops like "The Electric State" and "Red Notice." However, with access to Warner Bros' resources and expertise, Netflix now stands a chance.

The deal is also significant because it represents a change in the way streaming services approach film distribution. Historically, Netflix has prioritized individual films over overall marketability, relying on subscription sales rather than box office revenue. With this acquisition, Netflix may begin to adopt a more traditional studio model, focusing on creating blockbuster hits that appeal to broad audiences.

While there are concerns about the "window" – the period of exclusivity physical theaters enjoy before releasing films to home entertainment formats – it's clear that Netflix is committed to maintaining its presence in cinemas. This move will likely provide major marketing benefits and keep high-profile talent happy, who may not be willing to participate in streaming premieres.

In conclusion, Netflix's purchase of Warner Bros marks a significant turning point for the company. With this acquisition, Netflix aims to create blockbuster hits that appeal to mainstream audiences, something it has struggled with in the past. The deal also represents a shift towards a more traditional studio model, which may lead to changes in how streaming services approach film distribution. As the future of big-screen cinema becomes increasingly uncertain, one thing is clear: Netflix's acquisition of Warner Bros will have far-reaching implications for the entertainment industry.

Netflix buys Warner Bros and it's gonna be lit ! They're trying to make movies that people actually want to watch, not just stuff they can stream at home. Like, remember "The Electric State" and "Red Notice"... yeah, those didn't do so great . But with all the resources and expertise of Warner Bros, maybe they can finally make something that's, like, actually good?

The real question is what happens next? Will they finally make a movie that blows people's minds like "The Matrix" or "Inception"? Netflix has been trying to win Oscars for ages, and now with Warner Bros' help, they might just get their big break... or will they turn into another Disney or Universal? It's all about the balance between streaming original content and making blockbuster hits that appeal to everyone. And let's be real, who wouldn't want to see a Marvel movie on Netflix?

omg I'm low-key hyped about this deal it's like the ultimate power move by Netflix to get into the big leagues they've been trying to make a name for themselves in film production for ages, but it's not until now that they're finally pulling off something major with Warner Bros under their belt, I can already imagine some epic movies coming out on the platform and let's be real, having all those iconic IPs like DC Universe and Game of Thrones on board is a total game-changer

I think this deal is like a 2024 US midterm election – it's all about who gets control and what changes are gonna happen next? Netflix trying to win that Oscar, huh? Well, I got news for ya, they been playing with indie films like they was a game of Hollywood bingo. They need that big studio magic, and now they got it! But is this the end of Warner Bros' independent spirit? Can't say, but Netflix trying to create those blockbuster hits like it's an art form or somethin'. And what about the window thing? It's all about makin' a buck, right? They tryna keep that theater magic alive while still gettin' that streaming gold. I think we're lookin at a future where streaming and cinema get all cozy with each other

I'm low-key excited about this move by Netflix, tbh! They've been trying to create blockbuster hits on their own, but it seems like they needed a hand from someone with more experience, like Warner Bros. This acquisition is all about creating that wow factor and bringing in some serious box office cred The fact that they're committed to maintaining a presence in cinemas is also super smart, as that's where the magic happens for audiences! And let's be real, who wouldn't want to work with high-profile talent and have access to that sweet, sweet marketing budget ? I'm curious to see how this plays out and if Netflix can finally crack the code on creating films that resonate with mainstream audiences

OMG, this deal is like something straight outta a Marvel movie ! I mean, can you imagine Netflix and DC collabing on some epic flicks? It's about time they stepped up their game, 'cause let's be real, they've been stuck in the "Electric State" of mediocrity for too long.

I'm low-key hyped about this acquisition, tho. With Warner Bros' resources and expertise, Netflix might just become the go-to studio for blockbuster hits . And can you imagine the marketing benefits? It's like they're gonna have the entire box office on lockdown !

But for real though, the way streaming services approach film distribution is about to get a major shakeup . This deal could be the start of something big, and I'm here for it ! Bring on the blockbuster hits, Netflix!

so like i think netflix is trying to do 2 things here... first, they wanna make some actual good movies that people love and dont just end up on some obscure streaming list , and second, they wanna be able to compete with those big studios at the cinema and have their movies play out in theaters for a bit before it comes home . its also like super interesting to see how they plan to make all this work without just taking over the whole industry...

omg, I feel like this deal is gonna change everything and I'm low-key scared about it but at the same time, I think it's kinda awesome that Netflix is taking a risk to try and win over the Oscars I mean, who wouldn't want that kind of prestige? but yeah, it's also weird that they're trying to adopt this traditional studio model...like, are they gonna start making movies just for theaters or what?

So what do u guys think about this deal? Are we gonna see a lot more movies on Netflix that actually get awards buzz or are they just trying to boost their subscriber base with a bunch of mediocre films? I personally think it's a win-win for both parties - Netflix gets access to some serious Hollywood talent and resources, while Warner Bros gets a big financial boost. But the real question is what happens next? Do we see more movies in theaters or are they gonna be exclusive to streaming from day one?

This deal might be a game-changer for Netflix, but I'm still not sure about it. On one hand, having access to Warner Bros' resources and expertise could help them create some real blockbusters. Think of all the iconic IPs they can tap into - like DC Universe movies and Game of Thrones. But on the other hand, how will they balance that with their own unique content? I'm worried that they'll lose that 'edge' that makes Netflix so special.

And what about the whole "window" thing? It's a tricky one, especially if they want to keep their films in cinemas for a bit before releasing them on Netflix. That could be a major headache, but maybe it's something they can figure out?

Either way, this deal is definitely going to shake things up in the entertainment industry. I'm curious to see how it plays out - will they become the new Hollywood?

I think this deal is gonna change everything . Netflix needs a reboot in terms of producing blockbusters that actually make money at the box office. I mean, how many times can you watch "The Irishman" before it gets old? They need to bring back their A-game and start churning out movies that appeal to a wider audience. With Warner Bros under their belt, they might finally be able to tap into that magic . The fact that they're trying to adapt to the traditional studio model is smart on their part too - it's not like they can just keep making their own stuff and expect people to magically watch it in theaters .

I'm kinda thinking that this deal might be a double-edged sword ... On one hand, it's super exciting to see Netflix tryin' to tackle the big-screen game and potentially bring some of those Oscar wins they've been goin' on about . But at the same time, I'm worried it might change the game too much for other smaller studios or indie filmmakers. They're already strugglin' to make ends meet ... And what's gonna happen to all those movies that are released straight to streaming? Will they still get the same love and attention as a big ol' studio release? I guess only time'll tell, but for now, I'm keepin' an eye on this one