Biogiant boycott Universal's films

"This applies to every one of Universal's films, applies from today and when our cinemas open, and is no empty threat," Aron writes.

According to Adam Aron, the decision applies to all cinemas owned by AMC in North America, Europe and the Middle East. With over 1,100 cinemas, AMC is the world's largest cinema owner, and among other things is the main owner of Sweden's largest cinema chain Filmstaden.

The decision is a reaction that Universal plans to release films in parallel in the cinema and streaming market.

"As soon as the cinemas open again, we will release films in both formats," said NBC Universal CEO Jeff Shell in an interview with the Wall Street Journal.

He points out that the results of the animated movie Trolls 2 - The World Tour, which was released directly on the streaming market in North America, exceeded all expectations.

Universal has released a number of other films directly into streaming, and is also planning to release Judd Apatow's comedy "The King of Staten Island" digitally in June.

"It's a disappointment for us, and Jeff's comments about Universal's actions and plans mean that we have no choice," Aron writes, emphasizing that the decision is not strictly directed at Universal, but against all companies and filmmakers who violate the current norm regarding viewing window, it should normally be 90 days after the bio premiere before a movie can be shown digitally.

Adam Aron writes that he is happy to agree with Shell, but that the decision will not be reversed and "unless the companies do not agree, decades of unbelievably successful business together have unfortunately come to an end".

In a response, Universal writes that “our desire has always been to effectively deliver entertainment to the widest possible audience. We definitely believe in the cinema experience, ”writes Indiewire.