- As 2026 begins, the future of cinema is under intense scrutiny.
- Hollywood legend Leonardo DiCaprio has voiced concerns that cinemagoing may become a niche pursuit, comparing potential future theaters to jazz bars.
- This follows reports that Netflix, which is acquiring Warner Bros.
- for $72 billion, is interested in a 17-day theatrical window.
Quick Summary
The cinema industry faces a critical juncture in early 2026, marked by shifting consumer habits and massive corporate maneuvering. Leonardo DiCaprio has publicly questioned whether audiences still have the 'appetite' for theater visits, suggesting they might eventually become niche venues similar to jazz bars. His concerns are echoed by industry data showing a decline in box office revenue, with even reliable franchises like Marvel struggling to fill seats.
Compounding these worries is the massive $72 billion acquisition of Warner Bros. by Netflix, which reportedly seeks to shorten the theatrical window to just 17 days. Meanwhile, James Cameron has admitted to nervousness regarding the performance of Avatar: Fire and Ash, despite crossing the $1 billion mark. The combination of streaming dominance and lingering effects of the pandemic has reduced cinema attendance significantly, leading to a fierce debate about the viability of the traditional movie theater.
DiCaprio’s Concerns
Leonardo DiCaprio has expressed significant worry regarding the future of cinemagoing, questioning if it will eventually become a niche pursuit. In an interview with The Sunday Times, the star of Titanic and Inception highlighted the rapid pace of change in the industry. 'It’s changing at a lightning speed,' DiCaprio said. 'We’re looking at a huge transition.'
The actor noted a pattern where documentaries have already disappeared from cinemas, and dramas now face finite theatrical runs before moving to streaming platforms. This shift led him to ask a pivotal question about the medium's longevity: "Do people still have the appetite? Or will cinemas become silos — like jazz bars?" Despite his concerns, DiCaprio expressed a hope that 'real visionaries' would continue to produce unique films intended for the big screen, though he admitted that outcome 'remains to be seen.'
It’s changing at a lightning speed. We’re looking at a huge transition.— Leonardo DiCaprio
Streaming Wars & Corporate Moves
The landscape is being reshaped by aggressive moves from streaming giants. Netflix is reportedly in the process of buying Warner Bros. for a staggering $72 billion. Reports indicate Netflix is particularly interested in reducing the theatrical window to just 17 days before movies hit their streaming platform. This strategy aligns with the views of Ted Sarandos, Netflix co-CEO, who previously stated that the theatrical experience is 'an outmoded idea for most people' and claimed Netflix is 'saving Hollywood.'
However, not everyone shares this optimism. James Cameron has weighed in on the potential merger, stating that a Netflix purchase of Warner Bros. would be a 'disaster.' Cameron also noted that the 'one-two punch' of streaming and Covid has drastically reduced theater attendance, estimating it is currently at 75% of the numbers seen in 2019.
Box Office Pressures
Financial realities are painting a grim picture for theatrical releases. Even 'guaranteed hits' like Marvel movies are having trouble drawing fans to theaters. DiCaprio’s own 2025 film, One Battle After Another, ended its run with $205 million globally. However, reports suggest Warner Bros. needed approximately $300 million to break even, resulting in a loss of around $100 million.
Even massive successes are facing scrutiny. James Cameron’s Avatar: Fire and Ash crossed the $1 billion mark but is not expected to match the earnings of the previous two Avatar films. Cameron admitted to feeling nervous about the film's performance, citing 'sequelitis' and the public's potential dismissal of follow-up films. He noted that while he views the film as the 'culmination of a story arc,' the public may not see it that way.
"Do people still have the appetite? Or will cinemas become silos — like jazz bars?"
— Leonardo DiCaprio
"An outmoded idea for most people."
— Ted Sarandos, Netflix co-CEO
"Netflix buying Warner Bros. would be a 'disaster.'"
— James Cameron
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Leonardo DiCaprio say about the future of cinema?
DiCaprio wondered if people still have the appetite for theaters and if they might become niche venues like jazz bars.
What is the reported deal between Netflix and Warner Bros?
Netflix is reportedly buying Warner Bros. for $72 billion and seeks a 17-day theatrical window.
How is the box office performing in 2026?
Box office revenue is struggling, with attendance at 75% of 2019 levels and even Marvel movies having trouble attracting audiences.
