In this week’s shareholder meeting, Disney CEO Bob Chapek again confirmed Black Widow’s release date. The next Marvel Studios’ theatrical release, the movie will be released on May 7th. This had been previously confirmed by Chapek on February 11th during an earnings call. However, as theaters have not completely reopened and the effects of the pandemic are still impacting the entertainment industry, it was unknown if the release date would change.
Chapek said during the meeting, “I hope you’ve all had an opportunity to see our latest family entertainment achievement, Disney Animation Studios Raya and the Last Dragon which we released last week in theaters and on Disney+ premiere access to great acclaim and social buzz. As we’ve said we believe it’s important to put the consumer in charge and let them decide how they want to enjoy our films particularly as we navigate through the pandemic. We are really excited about the full slate of films we have in store. Next up is Black Widow, currently sent for release in theaters on May 7.”
Originally Black Widow was slated to be in theaters on May 1, 2020. The new release date is a year later. At this point, it appears that Disney is sticking firm with a theatrical release solely. However, other movies like Mulan and Ray and The Last Dragon have been released on Disney+ with Premiere Access. Raya and The Last Dragon released simultaneously in theaters and also on Disney+. Disney does seem to be allowing for some wiggle room by saying that they want to “put the consumer in charge and let them decide how they want to enjoy our films.” However, beyond that statement, every indication from Disney and Marvel is that Black Widow will be heading straight to the big screen first.
What do you think about Black Widow sticking with the release date and theatrical release? Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below!
