By Ryan Parsons | Image property of Walt Disney Pictures, Variety
Alice in Wonderland
About a week ago we discussed Disney's idea to shorten the theatrical run for Alice in Wonderland from four months to three in order to get the film onto DVD and Blu-ray that much quicker. Well, it turns out that some theaters around the globe aren't as big of pussies as the ones here in the States. A shortened window has caused some theaters overseas to pass on the film all together.
Alice in Wonderland Boycott
Dutch exhibiters have announced that they will boycott Alice in Wonderland unless the film can have a proper run in theaters. Top U.K. and Italian circuits are likewise threatening to pass on the film, which leaves one wondering how will the theaters in the United States in respond if those around the globe actually stick to their threats.
If the studio relents to the foreign markets, then the domestic exhibs will look for a similar adjustment; or a straight out return to the norm. But, if Disney does NOT relent, the foreign exhibs promise that Alice won't be seen.
The Dutch exhibs threatening to pass on Alice are Minerva, Pathe, Wolff and Jogchems, repping between 80% and 85% of all theaters in the Netherlands.
Youry Bredewold, a rep both for Pathe and the National Board of Cinema Owners, said Disney is not keeping its part of the bargain by breaking the four-month window.
"We will lose money due to our decision; we expected ('Alice') to become one of the most popular movies of 2010," Bredewold told AFP. "But we decided we need to send a message to the whole industry: If you don't accept our terms, we will never show your movies again."
Here here!
Alice in Wonderland opens to theaters on March 5th.
Alice in Wonderland
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