Mark Ruffalo has publicly called on filmmaker James Cameron to clarify his position on the proposed deal involving Netflix and Warner Bros. Discovery. Cameron recently voiced strong concerns about the impact such a move could have on the theatrical film industry. However, Ruffalo questioned whether the director would express similar opposition to deal involving Paramount Global.
Mark Ruffalo asks for James Cameron’s clarification for opposition to Netflix-WBD deal
Actor Mark Ruffalo has responded publicly to James Cameron after the filmmaker voiced opposition to a possible acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery by Netflix. The discussion began when Cameron sent a letter raising concerns about how such a deal could affect the theatrical movie business and the film industry.
Posting on ThreadsRuffalo asked whether Cameron would also oppose a potential acquisition involving Paramount Global. The actor wrote, “So… the next question to Mr Cameron should be this… ‘Are you also against the monopolization that a Paramount acquisition would create? Or is it just that of Netflix?’”
He added that the response would be important for people across the film industry, saying it is a question many filmmakers want answered. Ruffalo noted, “I think the answer would be very interesting for the film community to hear and one that should be asked immediately. Is Mike Lee against the Paramount sale as well? Is he as concerned about that as he is the Netflix sale? We all want to know.”
The discussion began after Cameron sent a letter to U.S. senator Mike Lee outlining his concerns about Netflix potentially acquiring Warner Bros. Discovery. In the letter, Cameron argued that the company’s approach to releasing films could harm the theatrical business.
“The business model of Netflix is directly at odds with the theatrical film production and exhibition business,” he wrote, adding that it could affect thousands of jobs tied to theatrical releases (via Deadline).
Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos later responded to Cameron’s remarks. Sarandos said that the filmmaker’s letter “knowingly misrepresents our position and commitment to the theatrical release of Warner Bros. films.”
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