Disney Will Remain “Flexible” When it Comes to Theatrical Releases

How you watch Disney movies has greatly changed over the years.

Black Widow at AMC Theaters in Disney Springs

Gone are the days of VHS tapes (unless you’ve got some retro ones in your collection). Now, there are Blu-ray discs, streaming, online rentals, theatrical releases, and mixes of the various forms. So, just how will some of Disney’s upcoming films be released? We’ve gotten a bit of an update today.

Earlier today, Disney held its quarterly earnings call and released its quarterly earnings report, giving an update on Disney+ subscriber numbers and financial figures.

During the earnings call, a number of questions were also asked when it comes to the parks and Disney+. Specifically, one individual asked why Disney has reverted back to exclusive theatrical releases (as it has done recently with Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings and Eternals).

According to Disney CEO, Bob Chapek, Disney is remaining flexible when it comes to its movie releases. Chapek shared that they’re seeing recovery of the theatrical marketplace. But, he also noted that they’re watching very carefully to see what Disney movies should go to theaters vs. which should go to Disney+.

Chapek shared that Disney is unsure how the market will react when family films return to theaters. That may lead Disney to having shorter theatrical release windows for family films.

Chapek said they’re testing the waters and adjusting plans on a weekly basis, truly emphasizing that view of keeping things flexible.

So far, Disney and Marvel’s Eternals has been released exclusively in theaters. Shang-Chi was also exclusive to theaters, but will be available to stream on Disney+ on Disney+ Day. Disney had also previously announced that its next movies — Encanto and West Side Story will be released exclusively in theaters (initially).

Of course, just as Disney indicates, things are subject to change. So, where you watch your next favorite Disney movie might be your home via Premier Access, your home via free Disney+ streaming, theaters, or maybe some mixture. Only time will tell.

We’ll keep an eye out for more Disney news and we’ll share that with you.