The release of “Black Widow” has been pushed back yet again. The flick, starring Scarlett Johansson was set to debut May 7, but fans will have to wait till July 9.
Black Widow in theaters July 9 and on @DisneyPlus with Premier Access. Additional fees required. pic.twitter.com/b8vTkiqS9Y
— Disney (@Disney) March 23, 2021
In December the company told investors that the Marvel film would be out in May. At first, the franchise seemed confident that restrictions on movie theaters would be lifted by then and viewers would be able to watch films on the big screen. However, that confidence has since dwindled.
The highly anticipated and long-awaited “Black Widow” movie, along with the live-action prequel to “101 Dalmatians,” “Cruella” will be simultaneously released theatrically and on Disney+. “Cruella” is currently set to release on May 28.
Meet the Queen of Mean #Cruella 💋🖤 pic.twitter.com/KXL3ZozV9D
— Cruella (@cruella) March 15, 2021
With COVID-19 restrictions varying per location, this system gives viewers the opportunity to enjoy the films from the comfort and safety of their homes.
“Today’s announcement reflects our focus on providing consumer choice and serving the evolving preferences of audiences. By leveraging a flexible distribution strategy in a dynamic marketplace that is beginning to recover from the global pandemic, we will continue to employ the best options to deliver The Walt Disney Company’s unparalleled storytelling to fans and families around the world,” said Disney Media & Entertainment Distribution Chairman Kareem Daniel.
However, in order to view “Black Widow” and “Cruella” at the same time as their theatrical releases, “Premier Access” must be purchased on Disney+.
The basic $7.99 subscription will not include these releases and a fee of $30 will be implemented per film until Disney decides to release it to all subscribers.
While Disney has not announced any other simultaneous releases, they did reset dates for the following Marvel films:
Black Widow — July 9, 2021
Free Guy — August 13, 2021
Shang Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings — September 3, 2021
The King’s Man — December 22, 2021
Deep Water — January 14, 2022
Death on the Nile — February 11, 2022
The pandemic has taken a major blow to the movie industry, and it is Disney’s hope that with simultaneous releases they will not lose too much revenue on their expected blockbuster films.
