Trending Now - Universal to Extend Theatrical Release Windows Through 2027
WHO:
Universal Pictures
NBCUniversal Entertainment chair Donna Langley
Adam Aron, CEO of AMC Theatres
WHAT:
Universal Pictures is extending the theatrical release window for its movies to a minimum of five weekends in 2026 and seven weekends in 2027.
The previous theatrical window was roughly 17 days, or three weekends.
Ticket sales are currently lagging around 20% behind pre-pandemic years.
Disney currently has a 60-day theatrical window.
The first film to follow the new policy will be "Reminders of Him," which is set to land in theaters on March 13th, 2026.
Other films on Universal’s 2026 slate include “The Super Mario Galaxy Movie,” “The Odyssey,” “Minions & Monsters,” and “Disclosure Day.”
WHERE:
The news was reported by the New York Times.
WHEN:
The new theatrical window policy will begin in 2026 and extend into 2027.
"Reminders of Him" will be released in theaters on March 13th, 2026.
WHY:
The change is intended to support a healthy, sustainable theatrical ecosystem and respond to the evolving marketplace.
Movie theater owners argue that longer exclusivity periods will encourage audiences to pay for theatrical experiences rather than waiting for home viewing.
HOW:
Universal's commitment to longer theatrical runs is a reversal from its previous strategy of shortening the window during the pandemic.
The decision acknowledges that a meaningful big-screen run can secure a better return on investment.
(UPDATED March 13, 2026 01:26 UTC)
In a significant shift for the film industry, Universal Pictures is extending its theatrical release window to a minimum of five weekends in 2026 and seven weekends in 2027, moving away from the previous three-weekend model. This change, aimed at fostering a healthier theatrical ecosystem, will kick off with the release of "Reminders of Him" today, March 13, 2026, and includes other anticipated titles like “The Super Mario Galaxy Movie” and “Minions & Monsters.” The decision comes as ticket sales remain about 20% lower than pre-pandemic levels, with theater owners advocating for longer exclusivity periods to encourage audiences to choose the big screen over home viewing.