What is the "nuclear option" IMAX is threatening to use?

IMAX is threatening to legally enforce theaters to show the "Narnia" film on their IMAX screens, even if the theaters wish to respect the established theatrical release window.

How did Greta Gerwig's previous film "Barbie" perform without an IMAX release?

Gerwig's "Barbie" film managed to achieve phenomenal box office success of $1.5 billion without being released in IMAX, proving the format is no longer the most technically advanced premium large format (PLF) option.

What is Vue Entertainment's stance on the IMAX-Netflix deal for "Narnia"?

Tim Richards, the founder and CEO of Vue Entertainment, the largest privately owned cinema operator in Europe, has written a scathing letter attacking the IMAX-Netflix deal, warning it will "undermine the very ecosystem that makes theatrical success possible."

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Cinema Boss Blasts IMAX's "Nuclear Option" to Force Theaters to Screen Netflix's Narnia

Cinema Boss Blasts IMAX's "Nuclear Option" to Force Theaters to Screen Netflix's Narnia

17 Nov, 2025

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Summary

Vue Entertainment CEO attacks IMAX's exclusive Netflix deal for Narnia film
IMAX threatens "nuclear option" to force theaters to show the film
Gerwig's Barbie film succeeded without IMAX release, proving it's no longer essential

Cinema Boss Blasts IMAX's "Nuclear Option" to Force Theaters to Screen Netflix's Narnia

In a letter obtained by Variety, Tim Richards, the founder and CEO of Vue Entertainment, the largest privately owned cinema operator in Europe, has strongly criticized IMAX's controversial deal with Netflix to give Greta Gerwig's highly anticipated "Narnia" film an exclusive two-week theatrical run on its screens.