When Netflix releases big movies, even the ones that resemble Hollywood blockbusters, its approach is consistent: Get people to watch them on the streaming service, not in theaters. In the cases where Netflix does put its films in cinemas, it does so in a limited fashion, primarily to build buzz or get awards consideration. Could Netflix be poised to make a big exception? The Los Gatos, Calif.
-based streamer is in early talks with cinema tech provider Imax Corp. to bring its upcoming adaptation of “The Chronicles of Narnia” to its giant screens, according to people familiar with the matter who were not authorized to comment. The highly anticipated movie is based on the popular C.
S. Lewis novels and directed by “Barbie” co-writer and director Greta Gerwig. Discussions between Netflix, Imax and Gerwig, who has been a driving force on the issue, are preliminary at this stage, the people said.
A deal may not happen. If an agreement solidifies, it would be Imax’s first deal for a theatrical window for a Netflix feature film. The talks represent a potentially delicate balancing act for Netflix.
Netflix wants to work with the best filmmakers in the business, and many of them, including “The Irishman” director Martin Scorsese, want their movies shown on the big screen. But Netflix’s priority is its streaming service, which has nearly 283 million subscribers globally and generates billions of dollars in annual subscription revenue. Whenever Netflix executives are asked.
