The Multiplex Association of India (MAI) has voiced strong concerns regarding Netflix’s proposed acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery, warning that the merger could pose a serious threat to India’s theatrical landscape. Representing multiplex chains nationwide, MAI cautioned that this deal may disrupt the steady supply of major studio films to cinemas—a crucial factor driving footfalls, revenue, and industry stability.
On December 5, Netflix and Warner Bros. Discovery announced a landmark $82.7 billion agreement, one of the largest entertainment mergers in history. Set to close after Warner Bros. Discovery’s Global Networks division separates in Q3 2026, the deal will bring Warner Bros.’ acclaimed film studios, HBO, and HBO Max under Netflix’s control. Although Netflix has assured it will maintain Warner Bros.’ theatrical operations, MAI points to the streaming giant’s historical approach to cinema releases as cause for concern.
Kamal Gianchandani, President of MAI, emphasized the issue’s significance, stating, “The Indian theatrical market thrives on choice, scale, and cultural diversity. Warner Bros. has been a vital partner for Indian cinemas, contributing successful global and local films to our release calendar.”He further highlighted cinemas’ broader role, saying, “Cinemas in India are more than just entertainment venues—they are cultural hubs and major economic contributors, supporting millions of livelihoods across production, distribution, exhibition, food and beverage, and ancillary services.”
MAI criticized Netflix’s longstanding preference for limited theatrical releases, warning this could drastically reduce studio content availability in cinemas. “Netflix’s restrictive approach to theatrical windows shows a clear disregard for the cinema-first model,” the association stated.
Gianchandani warned, “If the acquisition proceeds, cinemas face a dual risk: a significant drop in high-quality content and the shortening or elimination of theatrical windows. This will hurt revenues, limit audience choice, and weaken the entire ecosystem of film production, distribution, and exhibition in India.”The association called for “careful scrutiny” of such a massive consolidation and vowed to continue raising its concerns with regulatory bodies both in India and internationally.
As the Netflix–Warner Bros. deal sparks global debate, MAI’s firm stance underscores the growing tension between streaming-first strategies and traditional theatrical business models—a dynamic that could profoundly change how Indian audiences experience global cinema in the coming years.
