The last two weeks have been filled with a constant outpour of news from the movie industry. First, it was WarnerMedia and HBO Max announcing they’d be takinga total of 17 movies-includingMortal Kombat- for a simultaneous release in theaters and streaming; then last week Disney revealed their extensive plans forStar WarsandMarvelin 2021 and beyond.
Ever since then, Warner’s decision has been met with a fair share of backlash from some of the studio’ mostprominent directors, including Christopher Nolan and Denis Villeneuve, with both criticizing Warner’s strategy, considering it dismissive of the artists’ efforts in making those films, as well as a severe hit on the moviegoing experience audiences and directors who would hope for more standard theatrical releases.
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In this new scenario,Tom & Jerrywould move up one week from its previous release, probably looking to avoid a direct clash at the box office with Disney’sRaya and the Last Dragon, which is slated for March. Meanwhile, the news forMortal Kombatalso came with the announcement that a trailer for the movie would be available as early as January 2021.
There is still a lot for audiences to dissect from how Warner and Disney’s decisions will impact the industry in 2021, with both studios standing on opposite sides of the spectrum. There’s been some speculation from movie insiders pointing to Warner’s decision being partly motivated by what was perceived as an overall weaker movie offering, whereDune,The Matrix 4,Godzilla vs. Kong,andThe Suicide Squadare expected to take a load off the shoulders of moreunreliable performers likeSpace Jam,Mortal KombatandTom & Jerry.
In any case, the results from WarnerMedia’s play are yet to be seen, thoughwithWonder Woman 1984edging closer, it won’t be long until there’s at least one solid example of how successful this approach can be.
Tom & Jerryis now scheduled for release in theaters and HBO Max on June 25, 2025
Mortal Kombatis now scheduled for release in theaters and HBO Max on June 11, 2025
