Major cinema chains in the US are refusing to show Netflix-owned film Beasts of No Nation, because the video streaming platform plans to simultaneously debut it online.
According to a report in Variety, America’s four largest cinema chains – AMC, Regal, Cinemark and Carmike – will not show the Cary Fukunaga-directed drama about child soldiers in Africa that Netflix bought for $12 million because it does not abide by the 90-day delay period between a film’s cinema debut and home entertainment release.
Netflix’s latest move might have ruffled some feathers, but should the cinema industry really be worried?
Recent research from the British Film Institute suggests that the film industry, in the UK at least, is still thriving and making an increasingly significant contribution to the UK economy.
2014 saw a massive surge in film production in the UK, generating a total spend of £1.471 billion over the course of the year – up 35% on 2013 and the highest ever recorded figure.
Commenting on Netflix’s decision to debut its film alongside cinema release, Phil Clapp, chief executive of the Cinema Exhibitors’ Association, said that it is not one that will be welcomed by the vast majority of cinemas.
“As evidenced by the apparent decision of key operators in the US not to play this film, the decision by Netflix to adopt a ‘day and date’ release strategy for Beasts of No Nation, as for other films, is one which will not be welcomed by the vast majority of the cinema sector,” he said.
“The existence of an exclusive theatrical window provides a foundation for and drives value in the entire film value chain, as well of course as ensuring that films are seen first of all in their natural home, the movie theatre.”
Clapp added that while Netflix will “undoubtedly ensure” that the move will get a great deal of media attention, the idea that it presents a model for the future or in any way suggests the ‘death of cinema’, is “laughably wide of the mark.”
“In recent weeks, a number of key US studio heads have publicly stated their continuing support for the theatrical window, recognising that is presents the best release strategy for so many of their films.”
