Netflix CEO Swears Under Oath That WB Movies Will Go to Theaters
The U.S. government is dealing with the important things, making sure we can watch A Minecraft Movie sequel on the big screen.
Look, we here at Den of Geek know that there’s a lot going on in the world. We know that there are far more pressing things for the United States government to be dealing with than Netflix‘s plan to purchase Warner Bros. Heck, we know that the reason that Congress called co-CEO Ted Sarandos to testify has more to do with concern about the streamer becoming a monopoly if it buys Warner Bros. than it does anything to do with the future of cinemas.
But, man, are we relieved to hear Sarandos assure lawmakers that Netflix wouldn’t relegate Warner movies to phones and TVs. In fact, Sarandos invoked the weight of the situation when a congressperson asked if Netflix would commit to adhering to a 45-day theatrical window for new releases, holding them in the theater before sending them straight to streaming. “I just said I would do that under oath,” Sarandos responded (via Deadline).
Reportedly, Sarandos expressed frustration at Congress’ questions, as he has been saying for some time that Netflix would honor theatrical agreements. However, it’s also true that Sarandos has been strangely hostile towards the whole idea of going to the theater. Last year, he repeatedly described going to the theater as a type of elitist act, positioning an expensive streaming subscription, a high-quality television, and a high-speed internet connection as a more democratic option.
However, Sarandos’ comments here seem to finally put to rest our concerns. By adhering to a 45-day window, Sarandos promises that at least Warner Bros. movies will go to the theaters first. Even if they don’t play in those theaters for a full six weeks, it will take at least that long before Warner movies appear on Netflix. That wait encourages people who want to watch the newest movies to go to the theaters.
Those concerns became even more pressing in 2025. Last year, Warner Bros released some of the most celebrated movies of the year, from critical favorites such as One Battle After Another and Weapons to the DCU blockbuster Superman to Sinners, the record-breaking Oscar player that has thrilled fans and critics alike.
Each of these movies received praise from observers (including Den of Geek), but it’s the theatrical reception that many use to gauge the success of films. Superman and Sinners were undeniable hits because they pulled big box office numbers; One Battle After Another and Weapons, both great movies, have been scrutinized in part because they did not do as well in the theaters.
Even those who do not consider cinemas sacrosanct can see that movie theater attendance still matters. For that reason alone, it’s good that Netflix is committing to continuing the practice. And with Sarandos’ comments, that’s one less thing for us to worry about. Now if Congress would just start dealing with all that other stuff…