James Cameron on Why Netflix Buying Warner Bros. Would Be a ‘Disaster’
James Cameron is pushing back against the idea of Netflix taking over Warner Bros., calling the idea a “disaster.” The director shared his concerns in a recent interview, suggesting that Netflix’s approach to theatrical cinema is incompatible for the future of Warner Bros. With industry speculation continuing, Cameron’s remarks have sparked significant discussion across social media.
James Cameron explains why he doesn’t want Netflix to buy Warner Bros.
James Cameron has expressed significant concerns about the possibility of Netflix purchasing Warner Bros., saying he does not believe the streaming platform is the right company to take over the studio.
Speaking on The Town podcast with Matt Belloni, the director said he is firmly in favor of Paramount taking over instead. Cameron said, “I think Paramount’s the best choice. Netflix would be a disaster. Sorry, Ted, but geez.”
He pointed to Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos’ past claims that theatrical releases are no longer necessary, noting, “Sarandos has gone on the record saying theatrical films are dead. ‘Theatrical is dead. Quote, unquote.’”
Cameron also reacted strongly to Netflix’s promise to increase theatrical releases if it acquired Warner Bros. He said, “It’s sucker bait.” The director criticised the practice of releasing films briefly in cinemas only to qualify for awards, describing it as “fundamentally rotten to the core.” He added, “A movie should be made as a movie for theatrical, and the Academy Awards mean nothing to me if they don’t mean theatrical. I think they’ve been co-opted, and I think it’s horrific.”
During the same conversation, Cameron clarified that he is not opposed to Netflix competing for Oscars as long as the company adjusts its release strategy. He added, “They should be allowed to compete if they put the movie out for a meaningful release in 2,000 theaters for a month.”
Source: Comingsoon.net