'Netflix-Warner Bros deal threat to Indian cinemas'

Will diminish theatrical content: Multiplex body

- VIVEAT SUSAN PINTO

THE MULTIPLEX ASSOCIATION of India, an apex body of multiplex operators in the country, has red-flagged Netflix’s proposed acquisition of Warner Bros Discovery, saying it could diminish theatrical content availability and threaten India’s cinema ecosystem.

In a statement on Saturday, the body argued that consolidating a major studio under a streaming platform presents competitive and economic risks to India’s theatrical market.

The comments, which come a day after Netflix said it would buy Warner Bros Discovery in a $72-billon cash and stock deal, have put the spotlight on India, the world's largest producer of movies, and implications of the global consolidation on the local market.