Netflix boss commits to show Warner movies in theaters

Sen. Adam Schiff (D-CA) pressed Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos on Tuesday over how the streaming giant’s proposed acquisition of Warner Bros.’ studio and streaming assets could affect movie theaters.   “I happen to be one of those people who loves to go see movies in the theatre,” Sen. Schiff said during a Senate hearing examining the deal. “There was a lot of concern that, given the business model you’ve had to date, that theatrical exhibitions could be cut down from 45 days … down to a lot less, maybe 17.”   Mr. Sarandos sought to reassure the California Democrat: “We’re going to operate Warner Bros. studio largely as it is today,” he said, “including releasing the movies in the theater with the traditional 45-day window.”   The Netflix executive said the company has shifted its approach to theatrical releases in recent years.   “We didn’t own a theatrical distributor before, we do now,” Mr. Sarandos said. “This will keep the theater business intact.”   #congress #movies #netflix #warnerbros #cspan