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Credit: DisneyLately, we have heard a good deal of news breaks around Disney’s new hybrid release model for their films.
In case you do not know, when the pandemic began, Disney looked for a way to continue to release films they had ready to go for theatrical release, even if the theaters were not open. With the debut of the live-action Mulan, Disney created Premier Access, which is an arm of Disney+. Premier Access allows Guests to purchase a theatrical film for $29.99 as long as they are subscribed to the streaming service. Once purchased, viewers can watch the film as many times as they would like as long as they continue their Disney+ subscription.
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While many theaters were closed, this option gave Disney fans a way to experience the magic while most of the world was in lockdown. Now that theaters have reopened, the Premier Access business model has evolved to having a duel-premiere, giving Guests the option of watching the film at home or in theaters. However, it is now coming to light that some actors within the films are not fans of the business model, as it was not something they were privy to when signing on for the film.
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Most recently, Scarlett Johansson shocked audiences after suing Disney for releasing Black Widow on the streaming platform when her contract had an exclusive theatrical release written in. Emma Stone is reportedly also now considering what legal action she can take regarding Cruella‘s release, which also went to Disney’s Premier Access and theaters at the same time.
Now, fans wonder if Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson will be taking any legal action as Disney’s Jungle Cruise has also just premiered with the same business model.
Reportedly, Dwayne Johnson and his production company Seven Bucks Productions (co-producer on the film) have no intention to sue over the hybrid release. Dwayne is apparently in “lock-step” with Disney when it comes to finding ways to ensure the largest amount of audience is reached for his film’s premiere. Johnson is also working with Disney in many capacities, producing the latest Disney+ series, Behind the Attraction.
Considering Jungle Cruise’s success compared to Cruella, it is not a huge surprise to hear that Dwayne is satisfied with the release plan. Also, it has not been stated that a sole theatrical release was ever contracted, eliminating certain legal grounds.