The coronavirus has put the future of movie theaters in question.
Disney has moved around a bunch of release dates due to theater closures during the coronavirus and even decided to bring “Artemis Fowl” straight to Disney+, however, Disney CEO Bob Chapek says the studio still believes in the theatrical experience.
He discussed the topic in an interview with CNBC.
Chapek said this when it comes to bringing projects straight to Disney+:
“Having the streaming service and access to 54M+ subs, “it’s a viable way to premiere films as well, on a deliberate film by film basis; no hard and fast rules.”
When discussing the future of the box office, he pointed out potential capacity and health guidelines:
“If you think about the occupancy of a movie theater, 25% is the Monday through Friday afternoon (capacity)…It only becomes an issues on Friday and Saturday night, and to a lesser extent on Sunday night. In that particular case it can be managed and up to exhibitors.”
Disney’s next theatrical release is the live-action version of “Mulan” which is slated for July 24, 2020.