Ted Sarandos confirms Netflix's continued support for Warner Bros. movie releases, but with changes to release windows.

Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos emphasized that the streaming giant will continue to back Warner Bros.' theatrical releases following its planned acquisition of WBD for $82.7 billion. During an investors' call on Friday morning, Sarandos clarified that Netflix does not oppose movies being released in theaters, but has concerns about lengthy exclusive release windows.

Our concern has been mainly with extended exclusive windows, which we dont think are very consumer-friendly, Sarandos explained. Maintaining HBO largely as it operates now also includes its existing movie output deal with Warner Bros., which starts in theaters, and we will continue to support that.

He added that this does not signal a shift in strategy for Netflix or Warner Bros. films. Over time, release windows will evolve to better serve audiences, allowing films to reach viewers faster, he said. Currently, anything scheduled for theatrical release via Warner Bros. will continue as planned, while Netflix films will follow their current approachsome having a brief theater run before streamingsince our main objective is to deliver first-run movies directly to our subscribers.

Author: Natalie Monroe