Breaking News: Zach Cregger, the visionary director behind 'Barbarian' and the upcoming 'Weapons,' is standing his ground: no theatrical release, no 'The Flood' on Netflix!
It seems that Cregger, currently immersed in the production of a new 'Resident Evil' movie for Sony, had a potential deal brewing with Netflix for his sci-fi thriller, 'The Flood.' Dan Lin, Netflix Films chairman, even flew all the way to Prague to woo Cregger, dangling the possibility of a theatrical run – a smart move, considering Netflix had recently given Guillermo del Toro's 'Frankenstein' a theatrical release.
But here's where it gets controversial... Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos vetoed the theatrical release for 'The Flood,' and that, apparently, was a dealbreaker for Cregger. He's made it clear: if it's not on the big screen, he's not making it for Netflix. So, the project is currently in limbo.
A source revealed to The Wrap that the real question is whether Netflix will budge or let Cregger take the project elsewhere, as he's committed to a theatrical release.
And this is the part most people miss... Netflix isn't entirely against theatrical releases. They gave 'KPop Demon Hunters' a wide theatrical release, and they offer some degree of theatrical play to around thirty movies annually. Even the final episode of 'Stranger Things' will have limited theatrical screenings in over 350 theaters in the US and Canada starting December 31st. Furthermore, Greta Gerwig's 'Narnia' movie will be the first Netflix production released on IMAX screens next year.
Cregger's stance is understandable. 'Weapons' grossed a staggering $268 million at the box office against a budget of just $38 million. Theatrical releases can significantly boost a film's visibility and revenue.
During Netflix's third-quarter earnings call, Sarandos stated that their strategy remains focused on providing exclusive first-run movies on Netflix. He added that they occasionally release certain films in theaters for fans, as part of their launch strategy, publicity, marketing, and qualification.
What are your thoughts on Zach Cregger's decision? Do you think filmmakers should have more control over the release format of their movies? Share your opinions in the comments below!
