Netflix gains rights to Sony movies
Netflix has secured the rights to exclusive distribution of Sony Pictures theatrical releases following box office and home entertainment windows starting in 2022. This new deal with Netflix replaces a previous distribution agreement Sony Pictures had with Starz. Netflix will now be the streaming home of franchises such as Spider-Man, Jumanji, and Bad Boys. In addition to the latest releases, Netflix will also gain access to Sony’s library of other titles and get a first look at projects Sony looks to take directly to streaming.
The NPD Take:
- Although Netflix has poured billions into creating original content, licensed programming is still a major draw for subscribers and having blockbuster content helps drive engagement. Almost half, (44%) of Netflix users cite increased engagement and/or signing up for the service because of they have the movies they watch.
- Netflix has a licensed content gap due to studios pulling content from the platform for their own services. This situation led to an opportunity for Sony Pictures to strike an agreement with Netflix as they are the only major studio without a DTC service.
Discovery+ arrives on Comcast Flex, X1 launch coming soon
Discovery and Comcast have reached a deal to launch Discovery+, the company’s new subscription streaming service, on Xfinity Flex, Comcast’s platform for broadband-only customers. Discovery+ will also start rolling out on X1 in the coming weeks. X1 and Flex customers will be able to access Discovery+ through the Xfinity Voice Remote or in the app section if they subscribe to the service which is priced at $4.99/month or $6.99/month ad-free. Food Network Kitchen and Motor Trend, two more of Discovery’s DTC streaming services, are also coming to X1 and Flex.
The NPD Take:
- This deal follows the footsteps of AMC Networks streaming service AMC+ which recently is available through MVPDs. We look for more of these partnerships in the months ahead.
- Streaming isn’t about capturing those not passed by pay TV and this partnership with Comcast underscores the value of that strategy.
‘Godzilla vs. Kong’ – King of the monsters
In addition to pandemic box office highs through Easter Sunday, the monster flick also lit up the streaming arena. Godzilla vs. Kong had a larger viewing audience than any other film or show on HBO Max since its launch, including Wonder Woman 1984. The movie, along with every other Warner theatrical release, is available concurrently on HBO Max for no additional charge.
The NPD Take:
- HBO Max is making its mark as a leading source for new and exciting content with eight months of blockbuster releases left to drive audience. The opportunity to is train viewers to expect new release movies going into 2022, albeit 45 days later.
- As pandemic restrictions wane and more consumers return to theaters the level of expected box office attendance remains an elusive measure.