We saw AMC’s stock prices soar more than 40% based on this rumor. Is this an opportunity to change the game of distribution once again?
If Amazon is the new owner of AMC, what does that mean? Let’s reminisce on some recent current events and other important facts:
- Amazon Studios – whose sole release platform is Prime Video, has been competing with the likes of Netflix and Hulu for several years
- Distributors such as Universal and Disney (owner of Hulu) have stated that release schedules are going to be on a ‘case by case’ basis. They don’t see an issue with a release on VOD for certain films
- AMC bans Universal films
This could result in:
- Weakened dependency on traditional distributors like Universal while, maybe, focusing on the promotion of Indie films
- More frequent releases of Amazon Studio films on the big screen (AMC’s)
- Bridging of relationships between streaming services and cinema to (finally) work together
After digesting the aforementioned, we can conclude that there will be a serious shift in the dynamics between distributor, theatrical exhibition, and VOD platforms. This is the future of film, but at what cost? Your play, Jeff.