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CEO Warns Netflix-Warner Deal Threatens Theaters' Survival

12/10/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Michael O’Leary, CEO of Cinema United, warned Netflix's acquisition of Warner Bros. could threaten theaters.
He cited research showing a major studio merger can shrink theater film production by 43%.
O’Leary said smaller films suffer a box office decline three times greater than blockbusters.
He called for closer collaboration between exhibitors and studios, especially in marketing, to sustain the industry beyond blockbuster films amid ongoing challenges.

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Story summary

Michael O’Leary, CEO of Cinema United, warned Netflix's acquisition of Warner Bros. could threaten theaters.
He cited research showing a major studio merger can shrink theater film production by 43%.
O’Leary said smaller films suffer a box office decline three times greater than blockbusters.
He called for closer collaboration between exhibitors and studios, especially in marketing, to sustain the industry beyond blockbuster films amid ongoing challenges.