Following intense industry debate over the bidding battle for Warner Bros.’ film and streaming assets in December 2025, Netflix is now positioning itself as a supporter of theatrical releases. The shift has eased concerns across the cinema industry.
Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos addressed the issue in a recent interview with The New York Times. He said Netflix plans to operate the theatrical business as it currently exists. That includes maintaining the traditional 45-day release window for major films.
Sarandos has previously described theatrical moviegoing as an outmoded idea for many people. Those remarks raised fears about Netflix weakening cinemas. He later clarified that he meant moviegoing had become less central for some audiences, not all.
Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos now says that they will keep 45-day theatrical windows for Warner Bros movies if the sale goes through.
“If we’re going to be in the theatrical business… we want to win. I want to win opening weekend. I want to win box office”
(Source:… pic.twitter.com/KrtgbG2uJi
— DiscussingFilm (@DiscussingFilm) January 16, 2026Industry sources had suggested Netflix pushed for a shorter 17-day theatrical window. Sarandos denied that claim and stressed respect for existing release models. His comments offered reassurance to cinema operators and film fans alike.
The Warner Bros. catalogue carries major global franchises. These include DC Comics, Harry Potter, and The Lord of the Rings. Any major change to theatrical strategy would have reshaped the global cinema landscape.
Cinema owners warn that shortening release windows hurts both exhibitors and audiences. Independent theatres face the greatest risk. More than 5,600 US cinemas have closed since 2020 as viewers increasingly choose streaming platforms.
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Theatre advocates also stress cinema’s social value. Studies show that shared cultural experiences strengthen community bonds and support mental well-being. Regular cinema attendance links to lower risks of depression and social isolation.
Netflix’s own track record suggests theatres still matter. Successful big-screen releases, including K-pop Demon Hunters, proved that audiences will pay for the communal cinema experience.
Cinema operators now hope Netflix’s Warner Bros. acquisition strengthens, rather than weakens, the theatrical ecosystem. For many in the industry, cinemas remain essential to storytelling, culture, and the future of film.
