American cinema giant Disney decided to take "Strange World" from French theaters in order to stream the blockbuster on its online platform by 2022.
Disney confirmed the information provided to the American specialized site Deadline and to Les Echos, the French economic daily.
It is the result of the" media chronology as practiced in France, declared Helene Etzi, president France of Disney to Echos.
This decision is only applicable in France.
The media timeline determines when movies can be made available for streaming or TV in the months after their theatrical release.
The new agreement at the January end states that platforms, which includes Disney, have to wait 17 months to be able to broadcast their films following their theatrical release. They are still able to broadcast their films on free television channels 22 months after their theatrical release.
This device serves two purposes: to protect cinemas by providing them with the scoop and also the broadcasters and channels that finance them. France wants to preserve its film production diversity, something to which all governments have been attentive.
Marc-Olivier Sebbag is the general delegate of National Federation of French Cinemas. He sent AFP a press release in which he denounces a "totally unacceptable" decision and calls it "terribly unfair". He asks Disney to reconsider his choice. He appeals to the authorities to "resolve this major problem quickly for (the) sector".
Films can be released on platforms in other countries approximately a month and half after theatrical release.
American entertainment giant complains about a five-month exclusivity window before its films can be switched to free channels.
We are continuing to evaluate the situation film-by–film and country–by–country.
Ms. Etzi to Les Echos said that for the moment "Strange World" will be concerned.
Release of "Buzz Lightyear", Disney’s animated feature film and variation on the "Toy Story" story, is set for June 22.
However, there is no decision yet for "Black Panther" and "Avatar", both large productions that cinemas hope will increase attendance at half-mast.
The president of France Disney stated that "We continue to evaluate the situation film-by-film and country by country".
