Following Vue’s recent disagreement with IMAX, the European cinema chain is closing some of its IMAX theaters in favor of its recently-launched Epic format. The company has announced that intends to open at least 50 Epic-supported theaters by 2027.
Vue’s CEO recently voiced disapproval with IMAX’s agreement to enter into an exclusivity deal with Netflix, shortening theatrical release windows for Netflix films and securing a monopoly on the theatrical release of next year’s Narnia: The Magician’s Nephew.
Though it is replacing some of its IMAX locations, Vue has no official announcements regarding a split from the company, with PR and Brand Communications Manager at Vue/CinemaxX telling FlatPanelsHD that IMAX “remains their premium partner for the time being.”
The following was originally published November 20, 2025:
Tim Richards, CEO of cinema holding company Vue, is displeased with some of IMAX’s recent business dealings. The issue centers around IMAX’s recent exclusivity deal with Netflix, in which the company has sole rights to screen Narnia: The Magician’s Nephew for two weeks when it releases next November. From there, the film will release on Netflix, meaning audiences must go to an IMAX cinema if they wish to watch it on the big screen.
In response, Richards penned an open letter, published in full by Variety, lambasting IMAX for the deal.
“IMAX has not only agreed to this restrictive model but appears to be encouraging other filmmakers to follow suit. In doing so, it risks undermining the very ecosystem that makes theatrical success possible,” writes Richards.
This isn’t the first time Netflix has offered an exclusivity deal ahead of streaming time, but there has been an unspoken rule among cinema companies to pass on such deals in the greater interest of the industry.
“The industry can, and should, coexist by working collaboratively with our true partners, the studios, and by focusing on what matters most: delivering the very best experience for our customers,” continues Richards. “The industry should never try to convince audiences that there is only one way to enjoy a great film.”
