Will Disney toast local exhibitors with streaming policy?

Exhibitors will lose a lot of money over Disney's hard line about streaming its prime content. But local audiences may tell the Mouse to rack off.

Australian exhibitors are vitally interested in the changing schedules of the US studios because tentpole movies are their bread and butter. On Tuesday March 23, Disney announced updates to its 2021 schedule which also extend into 2022.

Cruella will hit cinemas and streaming service Disney+ on May 28, while Black Widow lands on both on July 9. Pixar animation Luca hits Disney+ on June 18 to kick off the northern summer, and will not go into cinemas at all. 

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David Tiley was the Editor of Screenhub from 2005 until he became Content Lead for Film in 2021 with a special interest in policy. He is a writer in screen media with a long career in educational programs, documentary, and government funding, with a side order in script editing. He values curiosity, humour and objectivity in support of Australian visions and the art of storytelling.