Mumbai, Dec 06: The Multiplex Association of India (MAI), representing multiplex operators across the country, today expressed deep concern over the proposed acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery by streaming platform Netflix.

India’s cinemas depend on a steady and diverse flow of compelling films to attract audiences and sustain a vibrant theatrical ecosystem. The acquisition of one of the world’s leading studios by a dominant streaming platform that has historically deprioritised theatrical releases poses a direct competition and economic threat to India’s theatrical and broader film economy.

Kamal Gianchandani, President of the Multiplex Association of India, commented: 

“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 our release calendar with successful global and local titles.

Cinemas in India are more than entertainment venues. They are cultural hubs and significant economic contributors. They support millions of livelihoods across production, distribution, exhibition, F&B, and ancillary services.

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. If this acquisition proceeds, the risk is two-fold, a meaningful reduction in high-quality content for cinemas, and the potential for shortened or non-existent theatrical windows.

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 magnitude warrants careful scrutiny. MAI will continue to highlight these concerns to regulatory authorities both in India and internationally.”