The streaming service Peacock is getting a new 45-day minimum window for theatrical film releases in 2022, a slate that includes such films as The 355, The Black Phone and Halloween Ends.
A report from The Verge details that a "majority" of NBCUniversal's movies released next year will be available as soon as 45 days have passed from their initial release, but not all of them. The announcement also includes other studios under the parent company's umbrella such as Focus Features and DreamWorks Animation Films. Still, some of the bigger blockbusters planned for release, such as Jurassic World: Dominion, are not anticipated to be included in the short time frame.
In a quote from the President of Peacock Kelly Campbell regarding the change, she outlined the importance of film to the streaming service. "As we continue investing in the most valued and sought-after content for Peacock, films are essential to that mix," she said. "The team at Universal Filmed Entertainment Group are fantastic partners and we are excited to bring their amazing slate of blockbuster films and beloved franchises to Peacock as early as 45 days after their theatrical release, and provide a steady stream of fresh, original films exclusively for Peacock customers throughout the year."
Some of the films announced as part of the deal include the espionage film The 355 starring Jessica Chastain and Penélope Cruz, Blumhouse Production's horror The Black Phone with Ethan Hawke, the next installment of the popular British drama series Downton Abbey: A New Era and the supposed final chapter of the storied Halloween franchise titled Halloween Ends.
Other than the new Jurassic World sequel, there's no mention of Oppenheimer, a war film from director Christopher Nolan, or Minions: The Rise of Gru, the origin story of the titular supervillain, leading to speculation they will not be part of this new shortened window. The traditional model was a 120-day wait after theatrical releases, but the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic caused many studios to re-examine the practice. WarnerMedia, for example, experimented in the United States with same-day releases of their 2021 films, such as Godzilla vs. Kong, in theaters and on HBO Max but will return to theatrical exclusivity next year.
"By ensuring our upcoming slate has both a theatrical window and timely Peacock debut, we satisfy the needs and expectations for key stakeholders across the spectrum, from our filmmakers and producing partners, to cinemagoers and Peacock subscribers," said Peter Levinsohn, Vice Chairman and Chief Distribution Officer at Universal Filmed Entertainment Group.
Source: The Verge