Warner Brothers’ decision to simultaneously release Wonder Woman 1984 at movie theaters and on HBO Max will also apply to their entire 2021 slate of films the company announced today.
Citing the challenges they have faced during the pandemic, Warner Bros. stated that they will continue to exhibit the films theatrically worldwide, while adding an exclusive one month access period on the HBO Max streaming platform in the U.S. concurrent with the film’s domestic release.
“We’re living in unprecedented times which call for creative solutions, including this new initiative for the Warner Bros. Pictures Group,” stated Ann Sarnoff, Chair and CEO, WarnerMedia Studios and Networks Group . “No one wants films back on the big screen more than we do. We know new content is the lifeblood of theatrical exhibition but we have to balance this with the reality that most theaters in the U.S. will likely operate at reduced capacity throughout 2021. With this unique one-year plan, we can support our partners in exhibition with a steady pipeline of world-class films while also giving moviegoers who may not have access to theaters or aren’t quite ready to go back to the movies the chance to see our amazing 2021 films. We see it as a win-win for film lovers and exhibitors and we’re extremely grateful to our filmmaking partners for working with us on this innovative response to these circumstances.”
Jason Kilar, CEO of WarnerMedia, said that the company has considered all the available options and that the current plan for Wonder Woman 1984 is the best plan for at least the next year.
“Our content is extremely valuable, unless it’s sitting on a shelf not being seen by anyone. We believe this approach serves our fans, supports exhibitors and filmmakers, and enhances the HBO Max experience, creating value for all,” he said.
Warner Bros. Pictures Group’s 2021 expected release slate currently includes: The Little Things, Judas and the Black Messiah, Tom & Jerry, Godzilla vs. Kong, Mortal Kombat, Those Who Wish Me Dead, The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It, In The Heights, Space Jam: A New Legacy, The Suicide Squad, Reminiscence, Malignant, Dune, The Many Saints of Newark, King Richard, Cry Macho and The Matrix 4.
Top Photo: Margot Robbie in The Suicide Squad (2021). Courtesy: Warner Brothers Films.
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