The Multiplex Association of India has issued a strong statement expressing deep concern over Netflix‘s proposed acquisition of Warner Bros Discovery. The industry body has called this development a potential setback for India’s theatrical landscape.
On December 5, Netflix and Warner Bros Discovery announced a landmark agreement valued at an enterprise price of 82.7 billion dollars. This marks one of the biggest entertainment mergers to date. The deal is expected to close after the separation of Warner Bros Discovery’s Global Networks division in the third quarter of 2026.
What The Deal Means For Cinemas
The merger would bring Warner Bros’ storied film studios, HBO and HBO Max under Netflix’s umbrella. While Netflix has stated it will maintain Warner Bros’ theatrical operations, the Multiplex Association of India believes the streaming platform’s historical approach to cinema releases raises serious concerns.
Kamal Gianchandani, President of the Multiplex Association of India, highlighted the gravity of the situation in a detailed statement. He emphasized that the Indian theatrical market thrives on choice, scale, and cultural diversity. Warner Bros has historically been a key partner to Indian cinemas, contributing consistently to the release calendar with successful global and local titles.
Economic Impact On The Industry
Gianchandani stressed that cinemas in India are more than just entertainment venues. They are cultural hubs and significant economic contributors. The industry supports millions of livelihoods across production, distribution, exhibition, food and beverage services, and other related sectors.
The association pointed out that Netflix has consistently made it clear through its limited and highly restrictive approach to theatrical releases that it does not believe in the cinema first model. This creates a major concern for the future of theatrical business in India.
The Two Fold Risk
According to the Multiplex Association of India, if this acquisition proceeds, the risk is two fold. First, there could be a meaningful reduction in high quality content available for cinemas. Second, there is potential for shortened or non existent theatrical windows for major films.
The statement warned that this would inevitably impact revenues, limit consumer choice, and weaken the broader ecosystem of film production, distribution, and exhibition in India. A consolidation of this scale warrants careful scrutiny, the association added.
About The Netflix Warner Bros Deal
Netflix’s proposed 82.7 billion dollar acquisition of Warner Bros Discovery was announced on December 5, 2025. The deal is expected to close in the third quarter of 2026 after the separation of Warner Bros Discovery’s Global Networks division. The Multiplex Association of India has stated it will continue to present its concerns to regulatory authorities in India and abroad. More developments on this industry changing deal are awaited.
(Also read: Avengers Endgame Returns To Theaters In September 2026: Marvel Announces Re Release Before Avengers Doomsday Premiere )
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