Netflix just announced another exclusive theatrical introduction for one of its high-profile new movie releases. In this case, its animated version of CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY will open wide in theaters on November 5, 2027, and play for 48-days before it becomes available to stream on Netflix December 22, 2027. The is third recent example of Netflix’s choosing to release a major tentpole in theatres exclusively, following in the wake of David Fincher’s ADVENTURES OF CLIFF BOOTH on November 25, 2026 and Greta Gerwig’s NARNIA on February 12, 2027.
Clearly, Netflix warming up to theatrical releasing is an encouraging sign for exhibitors, who have long had a tense relationship with the streamer. Until recently, the company’s Co-CEO Ted Sarandos has held that theatrical releasing is “not our model” and its impressive success in growing revenue and gaiing new customers has given it little incentive to change its ways.
However, the trading price of Netflix stock has fallen by over 40% in the last year, with half of that decline coming since it stepped back from its bid to acquire rival studio Warner Bros. Recently, Netflix has also had to content with reports that its user engagement is declining. While investors are looking for signs that the company can uncover new sources of growth, Netflix may finally be opening itself up to releasing their biggest films theatrically. Last year’s limited but successful experiments with KPOP DEMON HUNTERS and STRANGER THINGS combined with the three upcoming major theatrical releases point to an updated releasing model, even if a formal policy announcement has not yet been articulated.
