Netflix isn’t making it a secret that it wants to increase its brand through films as well as TV shows, and it’s clear which market has been more accessible.
Still, the traditional theatrical market hasn’t done itself any favors, at least when it comes to 2017’s underwhelming results through what could have been a strong summer competition.
So while exhibitors may be wary of experiments in same day / smaller window releases, Netflix could provide them with the content they need, and perhaps the revolution that they could use, to keep them in the game for longer.
All you need to do is look at the reaction of the Cannes Film Festival to Okja, or look at the several instances of Netflix clashing with the theatrical exhibition market, and you’ll see the road’s definitely been bumpier on the side of the movies.