The traditional landscape of Hollywood is facing a seismic shift that could either save or swallow the silver screen forever. The boss of Netflix recently sparked a global conversation after announcing a monumental $83 billion deal to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery. This move has created significant tension in the industry, particularly upsetting Paramount as they prepare a hostile bid to challenge the takeover.

Earlier this week, the head of streaming giant addressed these concerns, detailing how this merger will redefine the distribution of major motion pictures.

In a recent interview with The New York Times, Ted Sarandos addressed the skepticism regarding whether the streaming company can truly commit to the traditional cinema experience. Sarandos acknowledges that many people feel emotional because they fear the theatrical model is disappearing. He insists that his company has no intention of dismantling a system that already generates billions of dollars in revenue.

According to Sarandos, once the deal is finalized, the company will possess a world-class distribution engine that they intend to protect. The plan involves maintaining the standard 45-day theatrical window to ensure movies remain exclusive to theaters before streaming.

“We will run that business largely like it is today, with 45-day windows,” Sarandos emphasizes that his team is competitive and wants to dominate opening weekends and box office charts.

By keeping the existing theatrical framework, they aim to maximize the reach of every blockbuster film. The goal is to prove that high-quality storytelling can thrive in both physical theaters and on home screens, as mentioned by The New York Times.

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The leader of the streaming giant explains his evolving philosophy regarding how and where audiences watch.

When asked about his previous comments in the same interview, labelling theatres as outmoded, Ted Sarandos clarified that his perspective is based on accessibility. He noted that for individuals living in remote areas without local cinemas, the traditional model is indeed a relic of the past. However, for those in urban hubs with easy access to multiplexes, the experience remains a vital part of their lifestyle.

Looking ahead five years, Sarandos envisions a Hollywood that is healthier because of the infusion of new resources and stability. Many existing studios possess great intellectual property but currently lack the financial backing to compete at the highest level.

Despite the massive scale of this acquisition, Sarandos plans to maintain a presence in both Hollywood and Burbank to ensure the cinematic experience remains vibrant. While he admires the historical significance of the famous Jack Warner desk, he does not plan to occupy it personally.

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Are you satisfied with Ted Sarandos' clarification regarding Warner Bros. theatrical window timeline? Let us know in the comments below.