Why Netflix's Standout Films Need More Screen Time at Theaters

Movies like 'Wake Up Dead Man' mirror the excitement found in other films from the 'Knives Out' series. Their twists can redefine the classic mystery narrative, leaving audiences in awe, as noticed during its debut screening in Toronto, Canada. Such collective moments of amazement define the theatrical experience. Unfortunately, a significant portion of viewers will miss out on seeing these films in cinemas.

'Wake Up Dead Man' isn't the only example. Netflix showcased a strong presence at this year's Toronto International Film Festival, premiering films such as Guillermo del Toro's 'Frankenstein' and Edward Berger's 'Ballad of a Small Play'. While these films will be shown on the big screen, their presence will be limited to a handful of theaters and for an extremely short duration, just enough to meet awards criteria. For most people outside major cities like New York and Los Angeles, the only option will be streaming the films once they are available on Netflix.

Theater Versus Home Streaming

This is not to downplay the benefits of home streaming, which offers unparalleled accessibility. Being a subscriber to numerous streaming services and owning a considerable collection of physical media, I value watching movies at home. However, the immersion a theater offers remains unmatched. This appeal for theaters is not to compete with home viewing but for Netflix to understand that offering movies in both formats enhances audience accessibility, reminiscent of the days when home video was a secondary release channel.

The Cinematic Appeal

Consider del Toro's films that feature elaborate worlds. Watching such creations in theaters intensifies the experience and appreciation of their artistry. For instance, beholding the intricate costumes and fearsome creatures on a large screen enhances the viewing pleasure. The emotional resonance of seeing a character's turmoil magnified on a huge display adds depth that home viewing often can't match.

A broader theatrical release might not align with Netflix's current business goals, which are centered around boosting subscriptions rather than selling movie tickets. Yet, there's a cultural responsibility Netflix should consider assuming if it aims to be a vanguard of cinema. Regular presence at film festivals indicates its commitment, but genuine support would involve prioritizing what's best for each film project.

Bridging the Gap Between Formats

These films are not generic crowd-pleasers but cherished projects from well-respected filmmakers whose enthusiasm resonates with audiences during premieres. Del Toro's long-standing vision to create 'Frankenstein,' and Rian Johnson and Daniel Craig's evident passion for their mystery series, underscore the importance of theaters. Such traditional viewing celebrates films in a way streaming services can't replicate.

There is a model where theater and streaming coexist. Companies like Marvel and Pixar premiere movies in cinemas prior to joining streaming platforms. Apple, too, has experimented with this model successfully, with movies like their Brad Pitt production grossing significantly before landing on Apple TV Plus.

Realistically, Netflix's strategy might remain unchanged, given its emphasis on expanding its subscription base rather than facilitating widespread theatrical releases. Yet, for those who experienced the magic of cinema at places like TIFF, the power of a shared movie theater experience reaffirmed the desire to revisit these narratives, once they begin streaming.