Mike Lowery
Theaters everywhere just groaned a little.
Not surprisngly, considering the everlasting effect Covid’s having on the world, Warner Bros have opted to go with a day-and-date HBO Max debut for delayed superhero jaunt “Wonder Woman 1984”.
The film, originally due for release in the summer but pushed back because of the pandemic, will open Christmas day in theaters and on the WB-owned streaming service.
Outside of North America, in markets like Australia, it will open theatrically – with no VOD-premiere until a couple of months down the track.
All eyes are now on Disney and Marvel’s “Black Widow”, another Summer superhero tentpole delayed to 2021 because of the ongoing pandemic and theater closures, with some predicting the newly-minted release plans of “Wonder Woman 1984” have paved the way for it too to have a day-and-date streaming/theatrical release.
“Wonder Woman 1984”, starring Gal Gadot, Chris Pine and Kristen Wiig, will be released on HBO Max at no extra cost, WarnerMedia CEO Jason Kilar said.
“We are, of course, in an extraordinary moment. We see an opportunity to do something firmly focused on the fans: give them the power to choose between going to their local cinema or opening on HBO Max. Super-fans will likely choose both. This incredible movie will be available both ways in the US on the exact same day.”
Director Patty Jenkins agreed it was time just to get the film out there – even if it was on a smaller screen than originally planned.
— Patty Jenkins (@PattyJenks) November 18, 2020
