Wonder Woman 1984 to be released both in theatres and HBO Max

Wonder Woman 1984 is set to have a simultaneous theatrical and streaming release (HBO Max) in the US on December 25. Interestingly, the Gal Gadot-Patty Jenkins film will be released in the overseas markets nine days earlier on December 16. 

"As we navigate these unprecedented times, we've had to be innovative," said Ann Sarnoff, Chair and CEO, WarnerMedia Studios and Networks Group. "This is an amazing film that really comes to life on the big screen and, working with our partners in the exhibition community, we will provide that option to consumers in the US where theatres are open. We realise that a lot of consumers can't go back to the movies due to the pandemic, so we also want to give them the option to see Wonder Woman 1984 via our HBO Max platform."

The DC film was originally scheduled to open on June 5, but was postponed to August 14 and later to December due to the coronavirus pandemic. 

It reunites Gadot with Jenkins and co-star Chris Pine after their successful outing with 2017's Wonder Woman. The new film also stars Pedro Pascal and Kristen Wiig.

Both Gadot and Jenkins released statements on social media about the film's simultaneous release in theatres and on HBO Max.

Gadot said it was not an "easy decision" for them but they are excited about the film finally seeing the light of the day. "We've all waited a long time for this one to come. I can't tell you how excited I am for all of you to see this movie. It wasn't an easy decision and we never thought we'd have to hold onto the release for such a long time but COVID rocked all our worlds. We feel the movie has never been so relevant and we hope that it'll bring some joy, hope and love to your hearts. Wonder Woman 1984 is a special one for me and I can only hope it'll be as special to you too."

Jenkins said she hopes that the film will provide a "reprieve" during this holiday season. "The time has come. At some point, you have to choose to share any love and joy you have to give, over everything else. We love our movie as we love our fans, so we truly hope that our film brings a little bit of joy and reprieve to all of you this holiday season," she said, adding, "Watch it in theatres, where it is made safe to do so. And available in the safety of your home on HBOMax where it is on. Happy holidays to all of you. We hope you enjoy our film as much as we enjoyed making it."

This is the second such novel decision taken by Warner Bros in recent times after they decided to go with a staggered release for Christopher Nolan's Tenet. The movie was the first big-budget Hollywood feature to go for a theatrical release since the pandemic shut down the cinemas worldwide in March.

The film has grossed nearly USD 350 million globally in two months, kick-starting a debate about whether it is a disappointing or decent figure during the ongoing health crisis.