Netflix wants to create its own chain of movie theaters, according to new report
That’ll learn those Hollywood snobs?
Netflix has already changed the way people think about films and television, giving its subscribers the ability to stream prestige shows and blockbuster movies from the comfort of their homes, but could it also be looking at bringing the theater experience back to its glory days?
According to a report by the Los Angeles Times, the streaming giant has been looking into starting its own theater chain, giving movie buffs the opportunity to experience its Netflix Originals on the big screen.
The report states that Netflix considered purchasing the LA-based Landmark Theatres chain, which is co-owned by renowned businessman and investor, Mark Cuban, though it reportedly backed out of the deal due to the sale price being too high.
Binge-watching in public?
Not only would the prospect of Netflix-owned theaters bring the streaming giant closer to becoming the world's biggest media company, it would also give it the perfect platform to showcase its films for awards consideration.
With the very-public spat between Netflix and the Cannes Festival Festival reaching its inevitable zenith recently, putting films back in theaters and on the big screen could make Netflix more respectable in the eyes of the traditional movie industry, as well as potential filmmakers.
One thing's for certain, it won't be lacking in content — Netflix plans to spend $8 billion on original content in 2018, and with recent big-budget hits like Bright and smaller, thoughtful films like Annihilation, it's shown that it's not afraid to hit Hollywood where it hurts.
Get daily insight, inspiration and deals in your inbox
Sign up for breaking news, reviews, opinion, top tech deals, and more.
Stephen primarily covers phones and entertainment for TechRadar's Australian team, and has written professionally across the categories of tech, film, television and gaming in both print and online for over a decade. He's obsessed with smartphones, televisions, consoles and gaming PCs, and has a deep-seated desire to consume all forms of media at the highest quality possible.
He's also likely to talk a person’s ear off at the mere mention of Android, cats, retro sneaker releases, travelling and physical media, such as vinyl and boutique Blu-ray releases. Right now, he's most excited about QD-OLED technology, The Batman and Hellblade 2: Senua's Saga.
Netflix is getting a new sci-fi slasher just in time for Halloween but the trailer for Time Cut is a lot like one of Prime Video’s best horror movies
Olivia Rodrigo’s Guts World Tour concert special lands on Netflix this month and it’s another reminder that I failed to score tickets to one of this year’s biggest tours