Netflix is looking at movie theaters with fresh eyes. Ted Sarandos, co-CEO of the platform, has confirmed that the sequel to K-Pop Warriors will have a wide theatrical release, a move that marks a notable shift from the stance the company held just a year and a half ago.
The news is significant because it represents a plot twist for a company that for years defended home viewing as the future of entertainment. The announcement, made at Bloomberg Screentime, comes after the phenomenon of the first film proved that audiences were still willing to fill theaters when the content deserved it.
From outdated idea to box office success
In April 2025, Sarandos argued that releasing films for community viewing was an outdated formula for a large portion of viewers. According to his argument at the time, the public preferred to stay home rather than go to a theater.
That vision has evolved. Not because audience habits have changed radically, but because economic reality has taken hold. This summer's box office data, with titles like Toy Story 5 or Spider-Man: Brand New Day, has made it clear that certain productions only reach their maximum revenue potential when they hit theaters first. Furthermore, all signs point to the fact that theatrical releases do not take viewers or subscribers away from streaming platforms.
K-Pop Warriors, the example that convinced Netflix
The choice of this franchise to lead the new direction is no coincidence. The first installment was released on Netflix in June 2025 and became an unexpected global success. Months later, its sing-along version hit theaters in August, reaching number one at the North American box office.
According to Netflix's own data, those sessions sold out more than a thousand screenings in five countries, a figure that showed that the public wanted to experience the film outside the home as well, singing its songs in a community setting.
A wide release, but with nuances
Sarandos explained that a large box office gross does not automatically guarantee better results within the platform, and that the same is true in reverse. The executive distinguishes between auteur cinema and family productions designed for repeat viewing, the latter having greater potential to be profitable both in theaters and on streaming without harming Netflix's added value as a service.
La bola negra will also have a theatrical window
In addition to the K-Pop Warriors sequel, Netflix has announced that La bola negra, directed by Javier Calvo and Javier Ambrossi, will have a full 45-day exclusive theatrical window. In this case, the decision is linked to the film's aspirations for awards season, as it will represent Spain at the 2027 Oscars.
What other titles will hit theaters
Netflix's new cinema strategy is not limited to these two projects. The company has confirmed wide releases in 2027 for Narnia, directed by Greta Gerwig, and for Charlie vs. the Chocolate Factory.
Before those dates, another prominent title will hit the big screen first: The New Adventures of Cliff Booth, directed by David Fincher and starring Brad Pitt, will be released in IMAX format in November.
With these moves, Netflix seems willing to combine its streaming model with a stronger presence in theaters for certain productions. In the coming months, it will be possible to see if this renewed strategy meets the economic expectations that have motivated it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What strategy change has Netflix announced?
Netflix will commit to wide theatrical releases for certain productions, such as the K-Pop Warriors sequel, instead of limiting itself to a direct release on the streaming platform.
Why did Netflix decide to take the K-Pop Warriors sequel to theaters?
Because the first film became a global phenomenon and its sing-along version, released in theaters in August, reached number one at the North American box office with more than a thousand sold-out screenings in five countries.
What did Ted Sarandos say about cinemas in 2025?
In April 2025, the Netflix co-CEO considered that releasing films to be enjoyed in a community setting was an outdated idea for a large part of the public.
What other Netflix films will hit movie theaters?
In addition to the K-Pop Warriors sequel, Netflix has confirmed wide releases for La bola negra, Narnia (directed by Greta Gerwig), and Charlie vs. the Chocolate Factory, as well as an IMAX release for The New Adventures of Cliff Booth, by David Fincher.
Why will La bola negra have a special theatrical window?
Because it will represent Spain at the 2027 Oscars, and the 45-day exclusive theatrical window is related to its aspirations during awards season.
Does releasing in theaters affect Netflix subscribers?
According to the company, releasing in theaters does not take viewers or subscribers away from the platform, so both models can coexist without harming each other.
