Ever since movies started streaming on digital platforms, there has been a debate around the loss of cinematic experience. Some argue that some movies are best suited for big screens only while others believe the accessibility provided by streaming platforms has changed cinema forever. Netflix’s co-CEO Ted Sarandos has jumped into the debate and sparked a new controversy.
Speaking at an interview with Times, Ted Sarandos claimed that Barbenheimer would have been just as big on Netflix. He dismissed the view that particular movies are better on some screen size than others. Barbie and Oppenheimer were the two biggest movies of 2023 and many believe that the clash revived theater business.
His remark has started a controversy as many people believe that the Barbenheimer was more like a cultural phenomenon than just a movie. People going out with groups dressed up for one or at times even both. That level of enthusiasm for movies can’t be expected for any release on streaming platforms.
Netflix has established itself as the biggest player in the streaming business and seems like it wants to put itself at par with the theater business. However there are many who believe that the cinematic experience of a theater is unmatchable and can never be replaced.
