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Paramount Just Made a Huge Mistake

The article titled "Paramount Just Made a Huge Mistake" from Yahoo Entertainment discusses the recent decision by Paramount Pictures to release the highly anticipated film "Top Gun: Maverick" exclusively on their streaming service, Paramount+, instead of a theatrical release. This move has sparked significant controversy and debate within the film industry and among fans, as it represents a major shift in the distribution strategy for a blockbuster film.

"Top Gun: Maverick" is the long-awaited sequel to the 1986 classic "Top Gun," starring Tom Cruise. The original film was a massive success, grossing over $350 million worldwide and becoming a cultural phenomenon. The sequel, which has been in development for over three decades, was expected to be one of the biggest films of 2022, with a budget reportedly exceeding $150 million. The decision to bypass theaters and go straight to streaming has left many industry experts and fans shocked and disappointed.

The article delves into the reasons behind Paramount's decision, citing the ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the film industry. Theaters have been struggling to recover from the effects of the pandemic, with many still operating at reduced capacity or closed altogether. Streaming services, on the other hand, have seen a surge in subscribers and viewership. Paramount, like many other studios, has been investing heavily in its streaming platform, Paramount+, in an effort to compete with industry giants like Netflix and Disney+.

However, the article argues that Paramount's decision to release "Top Gun: Maverick" on streaming is a shortsighted move that could have long-term negative consequences for the studio and the film industry as a whole. The author points out that "Top Gun: Maverick" is the kind of film that was made for the big screen, with its high-octane action sequences and stunning aerial cinematography. The film's director, Joseph Kosinski, has been vocal about his desire for the film to be experienced in theaters, stating that it was designed to be an immersive, larger-than-life experience.

The article also discusses the potential financial implications of Paramount's decision. While the studio may see an immediate boost in Paramount+ subscriptions, the long-term revenue potential of a theatrical release is likely to be much higher. Blockbuster films like "Top Gun: Maverick" typically generate significant box office revenue, as well as additional income from merchandise, licensing deals, and home video sales. By bypassing theaters, Paramount is potentially leaving millions of dollars on the table.

Furthermore, the article suggests that Paramount's decision could set a dangerous precedent for the film industry. If other studios follow suit and start releasing their big-budget films directly on streaming, it could lead to the further decline of the theatrical exhibition business. Theaters have already been struggling to stay afloat in the face of competition from streaming services, and a shift away from theatrical releases could be the final nail in the coffin for many cinemas.

The author also touches on the impact of Paramount's decision on the film's star, Tom Cruise. Cruise has been a vocal advocate for the theatrical experience, famously refusing to allow his films to be released on streaming during the height of the pandemic. He has been a major supporter of the film industry's efforts to reopen theaters safely, and his involvement in "Top Gun: Maverick" was seen as a vote of confidence in the future of cinema. The decision to release the film on streaming could be seen as a betrayal of Cruise's trust and a blow to his efforts to support the industry.

The article also explores the potential reaction from fans and the general public. "Top Gun" has a dedicated fan base that has been eagerly anticipating the sequel for years. Many fans have expressed their disappointment and frustration with Paramount's decision, with some even threatening to boycott the film altogether. The author suggests that this backlash could have a significant impact on the film's success on Paramount+, as well as the studio's reputation among its audience.

In conclusion, the article argues that Paramount's decision to release "Top Gun: Maverick" on streaming is a huge mistake that could have far-reaching consequences for the studio, the film industry, and the future of cinema. While the short-term benefits of a streaming release may be tempting, the long-term damage to the theatrical experience and the potential loss of revenue could outweigh any immediate gains. The author calls on Paramount to reconsider its decision and give "Top Gun: Maverick" the theatrical release it deserves, in order to preserve the magic of the big screen and support the film industry as a whole.

Read the Full Slate Article at:
[ https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/articles/paramount-just-made-huge-mistake-204449850.html ]