HBO Max subscribers may be getting a wonderful Christmas present this year. According to Deadline’s sources, Warner Bros. executives are considering a day-and-date release of its next superhero blockbuster, Wonder Woman 1984. That would make the film accessible to not only theater goers, but stay-at-home streamers, on Christmas Day.
“[…] I understand that WarnerMedia brass have kicked around the idea of a simultaneous theatrical and HBO Max release on Christmas Day, particularly given how the pandemic is poised to shut down California exhibition in two weeks as more counties move from red to purple tier, with other U.S. cities imposing curfews,” Deadline reported.
Whether this will actually happen is anyone’s guess. Judging by the performance of the original film ($822 billion worldwide), Wonder Woman 1984 has the potential to make a ton of money solely through the theatrical circuit. An immediate release via PVOD channels could severely degrade its earnings potential.
Parent company AT&T seems to be onboard with the idea, however. “Those who conduct business with Warners tell me that AT&T Brass just don’t get the theatrical business, and are pressuring WarnerMedia executives to turn up the gas on the OTT service,” Deadline’s Anthony D’Alessandro wrote.
Wonder Woman 1984 is scheduled for theatrical release on Friday, December 25, 2020. Maybe it’ll merely be delayed until summer.