With many movie theaters remaining closed, studios have been forced to make adjustments so audiences can view their latest releases. Since March, many have released their films through Video on Demand or on streaming services. It appears that trend will continue in 2021, as Warner Bros. announced recently that all of their films next year will be released on HBO Max and in theaters simultaneously.
After announcing one of their biggest releases of 2020, ‘Wonder Woman 1984’ would be released on HBO Max, Warner Bros. make an even bigger splash, revealing their next 17 films would go to the streaming platform as well. The list of upcoming movies include; ‘The Suicide Squad,’ ‘The Matrix 4,’ ‘Dune,’ ‘Godzilla vs. Kong’ and ‘Space Jam: A New Legacy.’ Many believe this could lead to a major shift in the movie industry, as there will be an option to view in the theater or at home.
"We think where theaters are open, and consumers can go, that a lot of people will choose to go to the theater, especially for big movies,” said Toby Emmerich, Warner Bros. Pictures Group chairman. With this new plan, there’s now even less reason to leave the couch.