24 Aug Why Warner Bros.’ Film Pivot is the Right Move [Variety VIP+]
BY KAARE ERIKSEN
August 24, 2022 | More than two years after the launch of HBO Max, Warner Bros. is making a major pivot back to PVOD in yet another strategic move under new owner Warner Bros. Discovery.
WBD already announced the removal of dozens of titles from HBO Max in a move to cut costs amid an aggressive goal to make its direct-to-consumer segment profitable by 2024, and is also exploring the creation of a FAST service alongside its plan to merge HBO Max and Discovery+ into one offering in 2023.
But what may be even more remarkable is Warners has done away with its prior commitment to HBO Max receiving films from its 2022 slate 45 days after release, starting with “Elvis.” After box office smash “The Batman” and less-lucrative “Fantastic Beasts: The Secrets of Dumbledore” hit the service on time, “Elvis” can only be watched at home currently via VOD outlets, for a premium fee.
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