We all collectively sighed in disappointment earlier this year when we realized that the films we were eagerly anticipating would be pushed back due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. We accepted the new release dates. At first, at least. And now, with no signs of the pandemic ending in sight, we’ve realized that even the delayed release dates are uncertain and unlikely. And major studios are right there with us, scratching their heads and wondering what the right plan is. The current film of interest, Wonder Woman 1984, has a release date that isn’t set in stone. But there are a few different ways it might end up coming to a screen near you.
Wonder Woman 1984 Release Date Could Go Two Ways
Wonder Woman 1984 is the long-awaited follow-up to Patty Jenkins’ smashing success, 2017’s Wonder Woman. We’ll get to see Diana Prince (Gal Gadot) and Steve Trevor (Chris Pine) reunite as they go up against Kristen Wiig’s Cheetah, all while the looming threat of the Cold War hangs over their heads. After a few pre-COVID release date changes and the release of the Wonder Woman 1984 comic book, the film was set for a June 5th, 2020 release date. But we all know that didn’t happen! So, Warner Bros. latest date change put it at a Christmas Day premiere.
As it currently stands, theaters will not be back in full swing by that time. Cinemas around the world are experiencing shutdowns, decreased capacity, and a general fear of going to the theaters felt by audiences everywhere. So, if Wonder Woman 1984 does release on Christmas Day, there’s a chance it won’t perform as well as the first film, which made $821.8 million.
Image via Warner Bros.
A Christmas Release Or Further Delays
Insiders have discovered that Warner Bros. is debating between two release strategies. The first is delaying the theatrical release of the film again. This would put it in theaters by the summer of 2021 – if things don’t get any worse. While this may up the odds of it making money in the theater, it forces release calendar shuffling by the studio and will cause plenty of marketing troubles. Additionally, there are zero guarantees that the same thing won’t happen all over again.
The second release strategy, and what we think is the most likely, is releasing it in theaters in December and then pushing it on a streaming service. HBO Max has found moderate success in the streaming wars, especially for such a new platform. This means that the film could stick to a theatrical release, pleasing fans who can go to the theater. The film would then be available for everybody else only weeks later, in early January.
We think that Wonder Woman 1984 deserves a theatrical release. Though, it’s important to ensure that it’s done safely. If that means waiting longer, we’re more than willing. However, we also want to see it sometime this decade. Either way, we’ll be watching it when it’s ready!
What do you think will become of Wonder Woman 1984 and its release strategy? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
Featured image via Warner Bros.