Netflix is once again rattling Hollywood, this time over reports it wants drastically shorter theatrical windows once its proposed Warner Bros. acquisition is finalized.
According to Deadline, the streaming giant has been advocating for movies to remain in theaters for as little as 17 days before hitting its platform.
The figure has immediately set off alarm bells among cinema chains, with exhibitors like AMC said to be pushing for a more traditional 45-day window.
The debate gained fresh traction following the theatrical rollout of the ‘Stranger Things’ finale, which generated an estimated $25 million through concession-based screenings despite debuting simultaneously on Netflix. Insiders say the experiment has intensified concerns about how far the streamer plans to go in reshaping release norms.
If enforced, a 17-day window could impact major future titles from Warner Bros., including upcoming DC Universe films and long-awaited franchise sequels. While negotiations are ongoing and nothing is finalized, one thing is clear: tensions between streaming priorities and theatrical tradition are only heating up.