In a groundbreaking announcement, Warner Bros. has revealed that every film slated for release in 2021 will debut simultaneously on HBO Max and in theaters. This decision comes as no surprise, especially after the studio confirmed that Wonder Woman 1984 would be available for streaming on HBO Max on Christmas Day. Given the ongoing pandemic, it appears that a return to traditional moviegoing is still a distant prospect, making 2021 a year for more at-home binge-watching.
This is particularly exciting for those who enjoy movies but find the cost of theater snacks, like popcorn, to be outrageous. The 2021 lineup from Warner Bros. includes a variety of highly anticipated titles from the DC universe, featuring films such as Dune, The Suicide Squad, Tom & Jerry, Godzilla vs. Kong, Mortal Kombat, In The Heights, Space Jam: A New Legacy, and The Matrix 4, among others.
Warner Bros. clarified that while all 2021 films will premiere in theaters, they will also be available on HBO Max for one month. Unlike Disney Plus’s premium pricing model for Mulan, HBO Max subscribers will not need to pay extra to access these films.
The company expressed that this unique one-year strategy aims to support both film exhibitors and audiences who may not be ready or able to return to theaters. They framed this as a beneficial arrangement for both movie enthusiasts and cinema operators, thanking their filmmaking partners for collaborating on this innovative approach.
This initiative is intended solely for the upcoming year, as a way to counter the pandemic’s impact and ensure fans receive the films they deserve. While holiday movies on streaming services have been enjoyable, many are eager for more diverse content. HBO Max hopes that audiences will eventually feel comfortable returning to theaters, although adjusting back to the pre-pandemic experience may take time after such a long hiatus from big-screen outings.
To explore the complete list of films, check HBO Max’s official statement.