Yesterday we reported that Warner Bros. had delayed most of its upcoming film slate (except Tenet). Well, it looks like they weren’t done. The studio has now delayed In the Heights, based off the Broadway musical, to June 18, 2021. It was originally set to open on June 26, 2020. Say with me now, “Thanks, COVID!”
Director Jon M. Chu commented about the delay on his Twitter:
After long conversations &sleepless nights of uncertainty, we have decided the best time to release #InTheHeightsMovie is next summer when people will feel the MOST comfortable celebrating in a movietheater TOGETHER. I know it’s much later than we wanted but… https://t.co/Vb7YFjOxJk
— Jon M. Chu (@jonmchu) April 21, 2020
Additionally, Warner Bros. had decided to skip a theatrical release for Scoob! and send it straight to digital on May 15, 2020. Honestly, I can see why they are doing this, but all this does is make the film a more expensive entry in their already popular direct-to-video series. They should have just revived the early 2000s live-action series with James Gunn. C’mon, I know we would all jump at the gun to watch it.
You will be able to rent Scoob! for $19.99, or own it for $24.99. For the extra $5, you might as well own it since $20 to rent is mighty high. At the same time, I’m a bit surprised Warner Bros. isn’t making this a HBO Max original film since the streaming service is launching on May 27. *shoulder shrug*
On the news, Warner Bros. CEO Ann Sarnoff said in a statement (via Variety):
“While we’re all eager to be able to once again show our films in theaters, we’re navigating new, unprecedented times which call for creative thinking and adaptability in how we distribute our content. We know fans are eager to see ‘Scoob’ and we’re delighted we can deliver this feel-good movie for families to enjoy while they’re home together.”
Scoob! is the second animated film to opt for the digital route following Trolls World Tour (which apparently made $50 million in its opening weekend). Could more animated films follow suit? Or will theaters actually open in July like they are hoping they will? Time will tell.
What are your thoughts on Scoob! heading to digital? Will you see In the Heights in a year? Let us know in the comments how long until WB delays Tenet.
