Another week, another studio film ditches a theatrical release and heads straight for the digital domain. Last week, it was announced that Lionsgate is taking its upcoming thriller, “Antebellum,” and sending it straight to PVOD. And now, the studio is at it again, with “Run” ditches a planned theatrical release and going straight to Hulu.
According to Deadline, Lionsgate has decided to forgo a theatrical release for the new feature, “Run,” from filmmaker Aneesh Chaganty, and instead, has sold the North American distribution rights to Hulu. Of course, much like other films that are getting sent to streaming, there are still plans for an international release in theaters, but with thrillers like “Run,” a strong domestic total is where they normally make most of their money.
That being said, it’s clear that studios are finding it easier to release films on digital platforms, whether that’s PVOD or a streaming partner like Hulu. Something that was rare and completely surprising at the beginning of 2020 is just now incredibly commonplace. That being said, theaters are beginning to open up this month, in addition to the drive-ins and other select independent cinemas that have already opened their doors. So, it is going to be interesting to see if studios continue to sell their films to streamers or release them on PVOD when screens are begging for new releases.
Right now, you have films like “The Rental” and other IFC releases that are “dominating” the box office, however small it is. And no matter how well “Run” might have done (or might not have done) if it was released in May, like anticipated, it’s obvious that it could have had a decent run on select theaters. Though, let’s be real, weekends well below $1 million in North American might lead the box office right now, but that’s not going to help studios pay the bills when streamers are willing to spend exponentially more.
As mentioned, “Run” is written and directed by Chaganty, who is best known for his breakout feature, “Searching.” The film stars Sarah Paulson as a mother of a young woman that may or may not be holding a dark secret. You can watch the trailer below.
UPDATE: Hulu released a new date announcement teaser, revealing a November 20 debut.