The Future of 'Predator: Prey' - Hulu vs. Theatrical Release

The highly anticipated 'Predator: Prey' movie, a story about a young Comanche woman battling the iconic alien predators, has been released exclusively on Hulu. This decision raises questions about the future of theatrical releases and how streaming platforms are affecting the entertainment industry. Let's delve into the reasons behind this choice and discuss the implications.

Why Hulu and Not Theatres?

One of the primary reasons for the release on Hulu is the aggressive nature of the movie. According to sources, the film's content is too intense for Disney, which owns both 20th Century Studios and Hulu. While the studio is known for producing family-friendly films, the nature of the 'Predator' franchise necessitates a more mature and intense storyline. Hulu, on the other hand, is more oriented towards adult-oriented content, making it a perfect fit for this type of movie.

Another factor to consider is the current market trends. Due to the lingering effects of the pandemic, the general public has not fully returned to movie theatres. Studios are increasingly focusing on streaming platforms to reach audiences, which tend to have more consistent viewership and higher subscription growth rates. Hulu, in particular, is seeing increased interest from fans of the 'Predator' franchise, making it a strategic choice for this exclusive release.

Marketing and Strategy

The decision by Disney and Hulu to release 'Predator: Prey' on streaming comes with its own set of marketing strategies. The hashtag #HuluPushes can be seen across social media platforms, designed to entice fans of the 'Predator' franchise to sign up for the service. This move is part of a broader strategy to increase Hulu’s subscriber base and justify the higher subscription rates and cord-cutting phenomenon.

Moreover, the marketing campaign highlights the exclusivity of the platform, creating a sense of FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out) among potential subscribers. By making 'Predator: Prey' available only on Hulu, Disney and Hulu are tapping into the existing fanbase of the 'Predator' universe, likely to convert casual viewers into dedicated subscribers.

Industry Implications

The decision to skip the theatrical release and opt for a streaming-only strategy has significant implications for the film industry. Studios like Disney are increasingly treating sequels and remakes as direct-to-streaming opportunities, rather than relying on theatrical premieres. This shift can be attributed to several factors:

Lower cost and risk: Direct-to-streaming releases can be less expensive and carry less risk compared to theatrical releases, which require significant marketing and promotional expenses.

Broader audience reach: Streaming platforms can access a much larger and more diverse audience, including international viewers who might not have easy access to theatrical releases.

Higher profit margins: Streaming content can generate higher profit margins due to subscription fees and advertising revenue, making it a more appealing option for studios.

However, this shift also raises questions about the future of theatrical releases. Will we see more sequels and remakes bypassing theatres altogether? And will this trend push back on the idea of a blockbuster release event, where audiences gather en masse to experience a film in person?

Conclusion

The release of 'Predator: Prey' on Hulu is a significant event in the entertainment landscape. It highlights the changing dynamics of the film industry, where streaming platforms are becoming the primary mode of distribution. While some may lament the loss of a theatrical experience, the rise of direct-to-streaming releases presents new opportunities for studios to connect with audiences in innovative ways.

For those interested in more insights on the film industry, screenwriting, and TV production, please stay tuned to The Tao of Screenwriting. Follow us for regular updates and discussions on the latest trends in the entertainment industry.