Netflix and AMC Theatres are joining forces to bring select hits to cinemas, a move that signals a rare collaboration between the streaming giant and the world’s largest theater chain. The partnership kicks off with Netflix’s animated musical hit KPop Demon Hunters, which will play in 300 AMC locations over Halloween weekend.
Historically, AMC has avoided scheduling Netflix movies due to disagreements over how long films should remain exclusively in theaters. However, the success of KPop Demon Hunters, which topped the box office in August with around $18 million despite AMC’s absence, appears to have changed the calculus.
“For a long time, Netflix’s main goal for theaters was awards consideration or appeasing talent,” said Alicia Reese, VP of equity research at Wedbush Securities. “Now, Netflix is looking to maximize reach.”
Following the Halloween screenings, Netflix also plans to debut the two-hour Stranger Things finale in AMC theaters and other venues on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, coinciding with the episode’s streaming release. This hybrid strategy allows Netflix to generate excitement among fans while driving viewers back to the platform.
AMC benefits from this arrangement by gaining additional box office revenue during slower periods. For years, the theater chain has struggled to fill screens, and selective Netflix events provide a boost without conflicting with other major releases.
The companies are also exploring other potential projects. Greta Gerwig’s 2026 Narnia adaptation will receive a two-week exclusive Imax run, with the possibility of broader AMC screenings later. Similarly, Netflix is considering a more extensive rollout for David Fincher’s Adventures of Cliff Booth, a Brad Pitt-led spin-off of Once Upon a Time in Hollywood. Final theatrical plans for these releases will be confirmed closer to their premieres.
Not all Netflix properties will receive major theater showings. For example, Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery will only have a limited awards-qualifying run. Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos has reiterated that the company’s strategy remains focused on delivering first-run films exclusively on the streaming platform, meaning the theatrical partnership will remain selective.
The collaboration allows AMC to enjoy favorable terms. Unlike traditional studios that require theaters to schedule new releases throughout the day, Netflix has permitted AMC to screen KPop Demon Hunters according to their own scheduling preferences.
Hollywood studios welcome Netflix’s interest in theaters as long as it does not interfere with traditional releases or premium large-format showings. “We’re there for exhibition 52 weeks a year,” said a studio executive. “We don’t want to take a back seat to Netflix.”
Analysts predict this partnership will continue to be selective, focusing on properties with strong fan bases, while offering Netflix marketing benefits and AMC additional revenue during quieter periods.
