The Globe and Mail reports in its Saturday, Dec. 6, edition that Netflix's proposed acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery for $82.7-billion (U.S.) raises significant antitrust concerns, with potential legal challenges from rivals like Paramount Skydance. The Globe's Barry Hertz writes that this development signals a troubling shift for Hollywood, posing serious risks to movie theatres, film makers and audiences alike.
Under the terms of the deal, Netflix would acquire the entire catalogue of the 102-year-old Warner Bros. studio, as well as its television and streaming arms, including HBO. In terms of intellectual property, WBD has a gold mine of brands ripe for exploitation. They will now all be under the aegis of Netflix.
Netflix's approach to the theatrical experience feels like a severe blow to cinema, possibly signalling the end for many movie theatres. WBD recently showcased the power of the theatrical marketplace, being the first studio to reach $4-billion worldwide this year. It is also behind the year's best film, Paul Thomas Anderson's One Battle After Another, a frontrunner for the Oscars. Will Netflix seek to replicate this theatre-first success or eliminate it? Mr. Hertz says watch and learn.
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