The U.S. box office is projected to reach $9 billion in 2026, but the future of theatrical moviegoing faces challenges from streaming giants like Netflix, especially if they reduce theatrical windows to 17 days. While some industry insiders remain optimistic about the theatrical experience, concerns persist about Netflix's potential impact on traditional cinema, with debates over shorter windows, industry health, and regulatory protections.
Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav announced that the upcoming Barbie movie, set to be the first film to hit $1 billion under his leadership, will be released on the streaming service Max in the fall. Zaslav emphasized the importance of the theatrical window and expressed confidence in the film's impact when it eventually reaches Max. Additionally, Barbie will be available on airlines starting in September. Zaslav highlighted the successful cross-platform promotion for the movie and praised the efforts of Margot Robbie and director Greta Gerwig. Barbie is expected to surpass $400 million at the domestic box office and is projected to reach $1.3 billion globally.
Warner Bros presented their 2023 slate at CinemaCon in Las Vegas, with highlights including the upcoming films Barbie and The Color Purple. Warner Discovery CEO David Zaslav emphasized the importance of theatrical windows and asked for theater owners' help in bringing audiences back to cinemas. The studio also touted the success of Evil Dead Rise's pivot from streaming to an exclusive theatrical window. The Color Purple, a new musical version of the Alice Walker novel, stars Taraji P. Henson and opens on Christmas Day.
