(*From TheFutureParty Newsletter)
The Future. WarnerMedia is facing blowback for its decision to send all Warner Bros’ 2021 features to HBO Max on the same day that they premiere in theaters. This sudden arrival of same-day streaming is convenient for consumers stuck at home due to COVID, but it also poses problems for many of WarnerMedia's partners. Since WarnerMedia fast-tracked the development of this streaming strategy, it didn't inform several of its creative and financial partners about its plans prior to this announcement. Now, it may need to pay out big bonuses to keep everyone happy.
Stream scream
WarnerMedia is taking an extended stay in the hot seat due to its feature film day-and-date decision. Top Warner Bros directors, financial partners, premier talent agencies, craft unions, and theater owners all blasted the studio for a variety of issues. They argue that:
The decision robbed co-producers of lucrative profits that now need to be paid out by WarnerMedia to make them financially whole.
It was disrespectful of artists’ wishes and a violation of their trust.
It bypassed contractual talent agreements regarding box-office bonuses and other “downstream” payouts.
It hurts pension and health plans for union craftspeople.
It kicked the exhibition business while it was down, quickening their capital bloodletting when they need help the most.
WarnerMedia has responded by pointing out that the HBO Max strategy will only last for a year, but many in Hollywood don’t believe that that genie can go back in the bottle once customers are used to the immediate availability of streaming content.
(*From TheFutureParty Newsletter)