For the first time, Netflix is releasing a movie in theaters before streaming next year. (Called it!) Narnia: The Magician’s Nephew, directed by Greta Gerwig, will be released in theaters on February 12 and then become available for streaming on April 2. Netflix has been moving away from releasing movies exclusively on its platform slowly, from post-release screenings to same day, limited releases in theaters. This next change signals that they might finally be warming up to theaters as a full piece of their model—a smart move considering young people are the driving force behind a resurgence in moviegoing. YPulse predicted last year that we’d begin to see streamers release more and more in theaters for fandom engagement. And while Netflix said that there aren’t any changes to the company’s long-term theatrical strategy, the change is good news for theaters and filmmakers who are trying to usher in higher box office sales. (NYT)
🔮 YPulse predicted: Fandoms will save the movie theater—or change it for good
