Caffeinated Clint
The “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon” sequel has been set as the first feature from televisual streamer Netflix.
Though it’s not the first effort produced by the increasingly-popular movie-watching medium (that’s the event series “Marco Polo”), “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon : The Green Legend” will be the first one out of the gate – or, onto your screens.
Netflix have been producing original content for quite some time now – namely originals series will “House of Cards” and “Orange is the new Black” – but the Weinstein’s “Crouching Tiger” follow-up marks their first major film release.
Is this a good sign or bad cinema for film distribution? While it suggests that there’ll more options for filmmakers, and films, in the future it does suggest we might start seeing less and less theatrically-released films.
This film will premiere exclusively on Netflix, and also run at IMAX theaters. The release is August 28, 2015.
Yuen Wo-Ping directs the movie, which stars martial-arts icons Donnie Yen and Michelle Yeoh.
“Fans will have unprecedented choice in how they enjoy an amazing and memorable film that combines intense action and incredible beauty,” said Netflix Chief Content Officer Ted Sarandos. “We are honored to be working with Harvey Weinstein and a world-class team of creators to bring this epic story to people all over the world and to partner with IMAX, a brand that represents the highest quality of immersive entertainment, in the distribution of this film.”
“The moviegoing experience is evolving quickly and profoundly, and Netflix is unquestionably at the forefront of that movement,” said TWC Co-Chairman Harvey Weinstein. “We are tremendously excited to be continuing our great relationship with Netflix and bringing to fans all over the world the latest chapter in this amazing and intriguing story.”
“IMAX has a terrific opportunity, via this partnership with Netflix, to release Crouching Tiger – a high-quality, action-packed film that is right in our wheelhouse — at the end of the summer blockbuster season,” said Greg Foster, Senior Executive Vice President, IMAX Corp. and CEO of IMAX Entertainment. “We are particularly hopeful it will play in our highly successful China market. In territories where we simultaneously release with Netflix, we are excited to offer consumers the option of deciding how, when and where they want to view the film, and exhibitors the opportunity to participate in this alternative form of content in a new and innovative way.”
