Netflix Becomes First Streamer to Join the Motion Picture Association of America
The unprecedented move — coming on the same day that the streamer landed its first Oscar nomination for best picture — was endorsed by Disney, Fox, Paramount, Sony, Universal and Warner Bros. It is the first time in history that a non-studio has been granted entry. It also is a defining moment for MPAA chairman-CEO Charles Rivkin 18 months into his tenure.
Added Netflix chief content officer Ted Sarandos: "Joining the Motion Picture Association further exemplifies our commitment to ensuring the vibrancy of these creative industries and the many talented people who work in them all over the world. We look forward to supporting the association team and their important efforts.”
Additionally, once Fox is merged with Disney, the MPAA will have one less member, meaning a loss of as much as $10 million to $12 million in annual dues. Sources say the MPAA is courting other new members as well (Amazon could be a candidate).
Netflix's focus on anti-piracy has begun to match that of the big studios, with the burgeoning popularity of set-top boxes pre-loaded with customized open-source software that can be used to access pirated content. Netflix and Amazon have joined the studios in filing copyright lawsuits and, along with MPAA members, are part of the Alliance for Creativity and Entertainment.
However, Netflix's seat at the MPAA table could irk theater owners, many of whom won't carry the streamer's original films since it doesn't abide by theatrical windows. The MPAA has stayed out of the windows debate, however.
See the full story here: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/netflix-advanced-talks-join-mpaa-1177926