The Flood: A Filmmaker's Standoff with Netflix Over Theatrical Release
Filmmaker Zach Cregger, known for Barbarian and Weapons, is currently working on a new Resident Evil movie for Sony. However, there was a possibility that his next project, a sci-fi thriller called The Flood, could have been made for Netflix. Netflix Films chairman Dan Lin traveled to Prague to convince Cregger to make The Flood for Netflix, even offering the chance for a theatrical release. Despite Netflix's history of limited theatrical releases, co-CEO Ted Sarandos vetoed the idea for The Flood, leading Cregger to put the project on hold until further negotiations.
The potential standoff between Cregger and Netflix raises questions about the streaming service's stance on theatrical releases for their films. While Netflix has given some movies theatrical play, including Guillermo del Toro's Frankenstein and KPop Demon Hunters, the decision ultimately lies with the company's leadership. Cregger's insistence on a theatrical release for The Flood stems from his desire to replicate the success of his previous film, Weapons, which performed well at the box office.
Netflix's current strategy of offering exclusive first-run movies on their platform remains unchanged, according to Sarandos. While they occasionally release films in theaters for promotional purposes, the primary focus is on providing content to their subscribers. The debate over The Flood's potential theatrical release highlights the ongoing discussion within the industry about the role of streaming services in the distribution of films.
As negotiations continue between Cregger and Netflix, the fate of The Flood hangs in the balance. Will Netflix reconsider their position and allow for a theatrical release, or will Cregger seek alternative options for his project? The outcome of this standoff could have implications for future collaborations between filmmakers and streaming platforms. Stay tuned for updates on the development of The Flood and its potential release strategy.