Robert Marich Video streamers are poaching independent films that previously were destined for movie screens, putting the tug-of-war over indie product in a spotlight.
Exhibitors are stretching to keep premier specialty films attached to the silver screen and at the same time indie distributors struggle to cover sizeable marketing costs, which is a longstanding obstacle to cinema runs.Independent films “are an important art form and very important to the longevity of our business,” says Marcus Theatres circuit chief Rolando Rodriguez, who is also chairman of the National Assn.
of Theatre Owners (NATO). They fill many verticals, such as prestige films, enabling exhibition to continue “to cater to the broad general audience.” NATO will hold.
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