(Image Source: Netflix)
Early last month, Netflix announced its first-ever major theatrical release plan, aiming to launch the first installment of the new "The Chronicles of Narnia" film series, "The Magician's Nephew," into global cinemas around next year's Valentine's Day.
At the time, it was widely believed that this was Netflix's initial move to demonstrate its commitment to entering the theatrical market. Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos had previously stated that even if they didn't succeed in acquiring Warner Bros. Pictures, they would not abandon their efforts to expand into the theatrical market. However, just over a month after "The Magician's Nephew" theatrical release plan was announced, Lin Wei (pictured below), the head of Netflix's film division, offered a different perspective.
(Image Source: The New York Times)
In a recent interview with The New York Times, Lin Wei explained that "The Magician's Nephew" was an exception, not a new norm, and that Netflix's stance on theatrical releases remained unchanged. Lin Wei also stated that some filmmakers still desired theatrical release treatment, and Netflix had decided not to collaborate with those creators. Lin Wei's comments indicated that Netflix would not agree to work with any creator whose primary goal was a theatrical release.
via： The New York Times