Trends 2025: Lilo & Stitch, Final Destination Bloodlines, And Moana 2 All Have Something In CommonRead
- dailyentertainment95
- May 30
- 14 min read
Why it is the topic trending:
The article discusses a significant trend in the film industry where major movies originally slated for direct-to-streaming releases are instead being released theatrically and achieving considerable box office success. This reversal of strategy is noteworthy and prompts discussion about the evolving landscape of film distribution.
The article highlights specific high-profile examples – "Lilo & Stitch", "Final Destination Bloodlines", and "Moana 2" – which have exceeded expectations at the box office after their initial streaming plans were changed.1 These examples serve as compelling evidence for the trend and make it a relevant topic for industry analysis and fan discussion.
The article contrasts this trend with the earlier pandemic-era push towards streaming, where some studios even sent entire theatrical slates to streaming services on the same day. The shift back to prioritizing theatrical releases, especially for larger films, indicates a re-evaluation of distribution strategies and the continued importance of the theatrical window.
The author argues that theatrical releases provide greater long-term value for studios, not only through box office revenue but also by boosting the performance of movies on streaming and VOD platforms later on. This perspective adds weight to the discussion about the optimal release strategy for different types of films.
The article suggests a major lesson for the film industry to take away from the recent success of these would-be streaming movies, implying a potential reshaping of immediate future distribution plans in favor of theatrical releases for films with strong franchise potential or high production value.
Overview:
This article discusses the surprising box office success of "Lilo & Stitch" and "Final Destination Bloodlines," along with the earlier triumph of "Moana 2," highlighting a common thread: all three were originally intended for direct-to-streaming releases but were instead released theatrically and became major hits.2 The author argues that this trend signifies a crucial lesson for the film industry, suggesting that theatrical releases, even for films that might have been considered streaming-first, provide greater long-term value through box office revenue and enhanced performance on other platforms later. This marks a potential shift away from the heavy emphasis on direct-to-streaming releases that characterized the early pandemic era.
Detailed Findings:
The author notes that the first part of 2024 saw a rough start at the box office, causing some initial concerns about the theatrical experience.
However, recent weeks have seen bigger-than-expected debuts for "Final Destination Bloodlines" and Disney's live-action "Lilo & Stitch."3
"Final Destination Bloodlines" opened to $51 million and has become the biggest horror release of the year and the biggest "Final Destination" movie ever, with $190 million and counting.4
"Lilo & Stitch" opened to a staggering $182.6 million across the four-day Memorial Day weekend domestically and is expected to reach $400 million by its second weekend, potentially hitting $1 billion globally.5
Both "Lilo & Stitch" and "Final Destination Bloodlines" were originally intended for direct-to-streaming releases.6
Disney's "Moana 2," which made over $1 billion at the box office in 2024, also followed this pattern of switching from a planned Disney+ series to a theatrical release.7
The author argues that direct-to-streaming releases for pricey franchise films often don't have much upside.
Warner Bros.' decision to send its entire 2022 slate to HBO Max on the same day as theatrical release is mentioned as an example that didn't always work well and angered talent.
Disney sending Pixar originals like "Soul" and "Turning Red" directly to Disney+ is cited as potentially hurting the brand.8
The author posits that movies that are hits in theaters tend to be bigger hits on streaming later.
Examples like "The Batman" and "The Super Mario Bros. Movie" performing exceptionally well on streaming after theatrical success are provided.
Even films with modest theatrical runs like "Encanto" can become major streaming hits, likely more so than if they were initially direct-to-streaming.
Warner Bros.' decision to give "Predator: Badlands" and "Alien: Romulus" theatrical releases instead of sending them directly to streaming (as was the case with "Prey") further supports the argument.
The author concludes that there is generally more long-term value in a theatrical release, even if a movie underperforms in theaters, compared to a direct-to-streaming release.
Key success factors of product (trend):
Strong Franchise Recognition: "Lilo & Stitch" and "Final Destination" are both well-established and beloved franchises with existing fanbases that were likely eager to see new installments on the big screen.9 "Moana" also has a strong following, especially among families.
High Production Value (implied): The fact that these were initially considered for theatrical release suggests they likely had budgets and production quality that warranted a big-screen presentation.
Potential for Wide Audience Appeal: Family-friendly content like "Lilo & Stitch" and the horror appeal of "Final Destination" have the potential to draw large and diverse audiences to theaters.10
The "Event" Factor of Theatrical Release: A theatrical release often generates more buzz and a sense of cultural event around a movie compared to a quieter streaming debut.
Enhanced Discovery and Marketing: The theatrical window provides more opportunities for marketing and word-of-mouth to build awareness and drive viewership across all platforms.
Key Takeaway:
The surprising box office success of "Lilo & Stitch", "Final Destination Bloodlines", and "Moana 2", all of which were initially planned for streaming, indicates a significant lesson for the film industry: theatrical releases for potentially big hits offer greater long-term value and audience reach than direct-to-streaming debuts.
Main Trend:
The main trend is the re-evaluation of direct-to-streaming release strategies by major studios, with a renewed emphasis on the importance and benefits of theatrical releases, especially for franchise films and movies with broad audience appeal.
Description of the trend (please name it):
The Theatrical Release Revival: This trend signifies a shift in the film industry away from prioritizing direct-to-streaming releases for potential blockbuster movies and a return to recognizing the significant value and impact of releasing these films in theaters first. This re-emphasis is driven by the box office success of films that reversed their streaming-first plans and the understanding that a theatrical run enhances a movie's overall performance and cultural footprint across all distribution platforms.
What is consumer motivation:
The Desire for the Big Screen Experience: Many moviegoers still value the immersive and communal experience of watching a film on a large screen in a cinema setting, especially for visually spectacular or highly anticipated movies.
Avoiding Over-Saturation on Streaming: Consumers with multiple streaming subscriptions might be overwhelmed by the sheer volume of content and might prefer the curated and event-like nature of a theatrical release for certain films.
Word-of-Mouth and Social Conversation: Theatrical releases often generate more significant word-of-mouth and social media discussion, making consumers feel like they need to see a movie to participate in the cultural conversation.
Supporting the Theatrical Ecosystem: Some moviegoers may be motivated to support local cinemas and the overall theatrical experience by choosing to see certain films in theaters.
The Perceived Higher Quality of Theatrical Films: There might be a perception among some consumers that movies intended for theatrical release have a higher budget and production value compared to those made specifically for streaming.
What is driving trend:
Proven Box Office Potential of Franchise Films: As demonstrated by "Lilo & Stitch" and "Final Destination Bloodlines," established franchises can still draw massive audiences to theaters.11
Understanding the Downstream Benefits of Theatrical Release: Studios are realizing that theatrical success often leads to greater viewership and engagement on streaming and VOD platforms later.
Re-evaluation of Streaming's Financial Upside for Big-Budget Films: The article suggests that studios are questioning whether the viewership and subscriber growth from direct-to-streaming releases of expensive franchise movies justify bypassing the significant revenue potential of a theatrical run.
Need to Support Theatrical Exhibitors: The author points out that theaters need a steady stream of product, and studios are recognizing their role in maintaining a healthy theatrical ecosystem.
Learning from Past Streaming-Only Decisions: The examples of Pixar originals on Disney+ and Warner Bros.' 2022 slate might have highlighted the limitations and potential downsides of solely focusing on streaming for major releases.
What is motivation beyond the trend:
Artistic Integrity and Vision: Some filmmakers may prefer their work to be seen on the big screen as intended, with the cinematic experience in mind.
Creating a Shared Cultural Moment: Theatrical releases can become cultural events that bring people together and create shared memories.
Maximizing Revenue Potential Across All Platforms: A strategic theatrical release can optimize a film's financial performance across its entire lifecycle, from box office to streaming and home video.
Building Brand Awareness and Longevity: A successful theatrical run can significantly enhance a franchise's brand recognition and long-term value.
Maintaining the Status and Prestige of Theatrical Films: For some in the industry, a theatrical release still holds a certain prestige and validates the scale and ambition of a project.
Description of consumers article is referring to (what is their age?, what is their gender? What is their income? What is their lifestyle? What kind of movies they like? Are they frequent, low or moderate moviegoers? What are their shopping preferences):
The article refers to a broad range of consumers:
Age: Spans across age groups, including families (for "Lilo & Stitch" and "Moana 2"), horror fans (for "Final Destination Bloodlines"), and general moviegoers interested in popular releases.
Gender: Likely a diverse mix of genders, as the discussed movies have broad appeal across different demographics.
Income: Not explicitly stated, but likely a wide range as fans of major studio films and popular franchises come from various income brackets.
Lifestyle: Includes individuals and families who enjoy going to the movies, as well as those who primarily consume entertainment through streaming services.
Kind of movies they like: Varies depending on the film – family-friendly animated and live-action movies, horror films, and potentially large-scale animated musicals. The common thread is an interest in well-known franchises or anticipated releases.
Are they frequent, low or moderate moviegoers?: Likely a mix. The article suggests that the theatrical experience is still a "true American pastime," indicating a segment of frequent moviegoers, while also highlighting the appeal to a broader audience that might include more moderate attendees.
What are their shopping preferences: Likely includes purchasing movie tickets, concessions, and potentially merchandise related to these popular films. They are also likely subscribers to various streaming services.
Implications for brands:
Focus on Theatrical Releases for Major Movie Tie-Ins: Brands looking for high visibility and broad reach might prioritize partnerships with movies that have strong theatrical releases.
Consider Cross-Promotional Campaigns That Bridge Theatrical and Streaming: As the lines between these platforms blur, integrated campaigns can maximize impact.
Align with Established Franchises: Movies from beloved franchises, regardless of their initial distribution plans, often offer strong brand association opportunities.
Implications for society:
Potential Revitalization of the Theatrical Experience: The renewed focus on theatrical releases for major films could help sustain and revitalize cinemas as community and cultural hubs.
Shared Cultural Moments Around Big Releases: Theatrical releases often create larger shared cultural moments and conversations compared to streaming drops.
Accessibility to Entertainment: The debate between theatrical and streaming releases can also touch upon issues of accessibility and cost for different consumer groups.
Implications for consumers:
More Opportunities to See Big Movies on the Big Screen: If studios continue to prioritize theatrical releases, consumers will have more chances to experience major films in cinemas.
Potential for Higher Overall Entertainment Spending: Consumers might end up spending more if they are encouraged to see movies in theaters and also subscribe to streaming services.
Following Release Strategies Across Different Platforms: Consumers will need to stay informed about whether a film is getting a theatrical release, a streaming release, or both.
Implications for film industry:
Greater Emphasis on the Theatrical Window: Expect to see studios potentially shorten or adjust the theatrical window but still prioritize a cinema release for their tentpole films.
Refined Strategies for Streaming Content: Studios might become more strategic about what types of movies are best suited for direct-to-streaming versus theatrical release.
Potential for Increased Box Office Revenue: Prioritizing theatrical releases for potential hits could lead to higher overall box office numbers for the industry.
Implications for filmmakers:
Opportunity for Their Work to Be Seen on the Big Screen: Filmmakers who aspire for their movies to have a large cinematic impact might see this as a positive trend.
Balancing Creative Vision with Distribution Realities: Filmmakers may need to consider the distribution strategy from the outset of a project.
Potential for Broader Audience Reach: A successful theatrical release can expose a filmmaker's work to a wider audience.
Consumer Trend: Platform Agnostic Entertainment Consumption - Consumers are increasingly flexible in how they consume entertainment, moving between theatrical releases, streaming services, and other platforms based on convenience, cost, and the type of content.
Consumer Sub Trend: The Persisting Allure of the Cinematic Experience - Despite the rise of streaming, many consumers still highly value and seek out the immersive and event-like experience of watching movies in a cinema.
Big Social Trend: The Ongoing Evolution of Media Consumption Habits - The way people consume movies and other forms of entertainment continues to change rapidly with technological advancements and shifts in industry strategies.
Worldwide Social Trend: Global Interconnectedness of Film Distribution - Decisions made by major studios regarding release strategies have global implications for theatrical exhibitors and audiences worldwide.
Social Drive: Seeking Optimal Value and Experience from Entertainment Choices - Consumers weigh the cost, convenience, and viewing experience when deciding how and where to watch movies.
Movie Trend: Strategic Release Windowing and Platform Distribution - The film industry is constantly experimenting with and refining the order and timing of releasing movies across different platforms to maximize audience reach and revenue.
Learnings for brands to use in 2025:
Be flexible and adaptable in your marketing strategies to align with the evolving release patterns of major movies.
Consider campaigns that activate across both theatrical and streaming windows to reach a broader audience.
Monitor industry news and trends regarding distribution strategies to optimize your brand partnerships.
Learnings for film industry to use in 2025:
Continue to analyze data and experiment with different release strategies to find the optimal balance between theatrical and streaming distribution.
Recognize the unique value proposition of each platform and tailor content and release plans accordingly.
Foster a healthy relationship with theatrical exhibitors by providing a consistent flow of compelling content.
Learnings for film makers to use in 2025:
Understand the potential benefits of a theatrical release for reaching a wider audience and enhancing a film's profile.
Be prepared to discuss distribution strategies with studios early in the filmmaking process.
Appreciate that a successful theatrical run can significantly boost a film's long-term performance on other platforms.
Strategy Recommendations for brands to follow in 2025:
Develop contingency plans for marketing tie-ins in case a film's release strategy shifts between theatrical and streaming.
Explore opportunities to create exclusive content or experiences related to major film releases, regardless of the platform.
Utilize social media and digital platforms to engage with audiences wherever they choose to watch movies.
Strategy Recommendations film industry to follow in 2025:
Conduct thorough market research to gauge the theatrical potential of different types of films, particularly those with strong franchise recognition or high production values.
Implement dynamic release strategies that can adapt to changing market conditions and audience behavior.
Invest in both the theatrical experience and the quality of streaming content to cater to diverse consumer preferences.
Strategy Recommendations for film makers to follow in 2025:
When pitching projects, articulate your vision for the optimal viewing experience, whether it's on the big screen or in the home.
Stay informed about the latest trends in film distribution and be prepared to advocate for the release strategy that best suits your project.
Recognize that both theatrical and streaming releases offer unique opportunities to connect with audiences.
Final note:
Core Trend: The Theatrical Release Revival - A renewed emphasis on the value of releasing potential blockbusters in theaters first.
Core Strategy: Prioritize theatrical releases for franchise films and movies with broad appeal to maximize long-term value and audience reach across all platforms.
Core Movie Trend: Reversal of Streaming-First Plans for Major Films - Studios are increasingly opting for theatrical releases for movies initially intended for direct-to-streaming.
Core Consumer Motivation: Seeking the immersive big-screen experience for highly anticipated movies and valuing the cultural event and buzz around theatrical releases.
Final Conclusion:
The success of "Lilo & Stitch", "Final Destination Bloodlines", and "Moana 2" serves as a powerful indicator of a shift in the film industry's approach to distribution. The willingness of audiences to turn out in large numbers for these films, despite their initial streaming plans, underscores the continued importance and appeal of the theatrical experience for certain types of movies. This trend suggests that studios are learning valuable lessons about maximizing the potential of their biggest titles and that a strategic return to prioritizing theatrical releases can lead to greater financial success and cultural impact across a film's entire lifecycle. It signifies a rebalancing of power in the distribution landscape, recognizing that both theatrical and streaming have crucial roles to play, but that for potential blockbusters, the big screen still holds significant sway.
Core Movie Trend Detailed:
Core Movie Trend Detailed: Reversal of Streaming-First Plans for Major Films: This trend involves film studios deciding to release movies theatrically that were initially intended to debut directly on their streaming platforms. This strategic shift is often driven by the recognition of a film's potential for significant box office revenue, particularly for well-known franchises or high-profile projects. The decision to pivot to a theatrical release can lead to increased marketing efforts, a wider audience reach, and a greater sense of event surrounding the film's release, which in turn can also enhance its performance on streaming and other downstream platforms. This trend reflects an evolving understanding of the complementary roles of theatrical and streaming distribution in maximizing a film's overall success and value.
Key Characteristics of the Core trend (summary):
Major films originally planned for direct-to-streaming are shifted to theatrical release.
Often involves well-known franchises or high-budget productions.
Driven by the potential for significant box office revenue.
Can lead to increased marketing and a larger cultural impact.
Often results in better performance on streaming and VOD platforms post-theatrical run.
Market and Cultural Signals Supporting the Trend (summary):
The strong box office performance of films that have made this transition ("Lilo & Stitch", "Final Destination Bloodlines", "Moana 2").12
A potential saturation or plateauing in streaming subscriber growth, leading studios to seek revenue from other avenues.
The enduring appeal of the theatrical experience for many consumers, especially for big-screen spectacles or любимые franchises.
The increased buzz and social media discussion that often accompanies a theatrical release compared to a streaming-only debut.
The recognition that theatrical success can enhance a film's brand recognition and long-term value.
How the Trend Is Changing Consumer Behavior (summary):
Consumers might need to adjust their expectations about which films will be available exclusively on streaming and be prepared for some previously announced streaming-only movies to appear in theaters.
There could be a renewed excitement around theatrical releases for films that were initially anticipated as streaming debuts.
Moviegoers might be more inclined to see these "reversal" films in theaters to experience them on the big screen after potentially thinking they would only be available at home.
This trend could reinforce the value of the theatrical window and encourage more consumers to return to cinemas for anticipated releases.
Consumers might follow news about film release strategies more closely to know where and when to expect certain movies.
Implications Across the Ecosystem (summary):
For Brands and CPGs: Need to be aware of potential shifts in release strategies for major film partners and adjust marketing plans accordingly.
For Retailers: Could see increased foot traffic and sales related to theatrical releases that generate significant buzz.
For Consumers: More opportunities to see anticipated films on the big screen, potentially at an additional cost compared to their streaming subscriptions.
For Movie Industry: A potential boost in box office revenue and a healthier theatrical ecosystem with a consistent flow of compelling content.
For Filmmakers: A greater chance for their large-scale or franchise projects to be showcased in theaters, potentially reaching a wider audience and fulfilling their cinematic vision.
Strategic Forecast (summary):
Expect to see more studios re-evaluating their direct-to-streaming plans for potential blockbusters and opting for theatrical releases.
The success of "Lilo & Stitch", "Final Destination Bloodlines", and "Moana 2" will likely serve as case studies for this strategic shift.
The balance between theatrical and streaming releases will continue to be a key consideration for studios, with strategies potentially evolving based on market performance and consumer behavior.
Films with strong franchise recognition, high production value, or broad audience appeal are most likely to see their streaming-first plans reversed in favor of a theatrical run.
The theatrical window, while possibly shorter than in the past, will likely remain a significant and valuable part of the film distribution landscape for major releases.
Final Thought:
The trend of films like "Lilo & Stitch" and "Final Destination Bloodlines" pivoting from streaming to theatrical releases and achieving significant success underscores a crucial evolution in the film industry. It highlights the enduring appeal and value of the cinematic experience and suggests a recalibration of distribution strategies to maximize a film's potential across all platforms. This re-emphasis on theatrical releases for major titles is a positive sign for cinema as a cultural institution and a reminder that the big screen still holds a unique and powerful draw for audiences worldwide.
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