For months, the cinemas have been closed and if some reopen their doors, the security measures imposed do not allow them to accommodate a large number of spectators. At the same time, Hollywood and production companies prefer to postpone the release of their films to avoid a box office flop caused by the lack of spectators. A vicious circle from which some are trying to get out by turning to streaming.
This is notably the case with Disney, which has just announced that the live-action version of Mulan will finally be released on its video on demand platform, reports Variety. The film will be available on September 4 - it was originally scheduled for March 27 - but will not be included in the overall Disney + subscription. Those who want to discover Mulan live-action version will have to pay $ 29.99.
The big-eared firm believes that this early release on its streaming service will be an opportunity to attract new subscribers. It will also serve as a test to see how many subscribers are willing to spend a pretty good amount of money to enjoy a movie that was originally slated to hit theaters.
Note that only service subscribers will be able to pay $ 29.99 to discover Mulan from their living room. Those who are not yet subscribed will have to add $ 6.99 to the price of the film to access the platform. Finally, in countries where Disney + is not yet available, Mulan will be released in theaters on a date that could be pushed back.
A new strategy?
The amount requested is still exorbitant, especially compared to the price of the monthly subscription applied by the firm with big ears. It's unclear if the fans will follow. Disney has not yet communicated on how its subscribers will be billed for the film or if it will still be released on Disney + in countries where theaters have reopened.
In any case, if the success is there, it could upset the plans of the company which could repeat the experience afterwards. Other production or distribution companies could follow suit. In fact, some have already done so. Last March, Universal Pictures offered the second installment of the animated film Trolls for streaming rental for $ 20. While it is not known whether this offer was a big hit or not, the film was not expected to attract large crowds. It was more of a “mid-range” film.
In Mulan's case , it's a super-big-budget project that could have exploded the box office, but the endless delay of its release could hurt fan excitement. Add to that the fact that we do not know when the cinemas will be able to operate normally again and we understand why Disney is trying this solution. To see what it will give.
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