Friday, October 30, 2026Est. Los Angeles
Ledger of HollywoodThe Business of Film, Television & Talent

Film

Netflix's Brad Pitt Sequel Faces IMAX Distribution Setback as Major Theater Chains Step Away

David Fincher's upcoming film encounters theatrical distribution challenges as Regal and Cinemark decline participation in its planned IMAX engagement.

By Ledger Staff ·

Brad Pitt at the July 2019 premiere of Once Upon a Time in Hollywood; archival portrait, not a still from The Further Mis-Adventures of Cliff Booth
Brad Pitt at the July 2019 premiere of Once Upon a Time in Hollywood; archival portrait, not a still from The Further Mis-Adventures of Cliff Booth · © Glenn Francis, www.PacificProDigital.com / Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Resized and letterboxed; adapted image licensed CC BY-SA 4.0 · CC BY-SA 4.0

Netflix's upcoming Brad Pitt feature The Further Mis-Adventures of Cliff Booth is facing a theatrical distribution challenge after Regal and Cinemark reportedly declined to participate in its planned IMAX release. Directed by David Fincher, the film continues the story of Pitt's character from Quentin Tarantino's Once Upon a Time in Hollywood. The project represents another significant collaboration between Netflix and established Hollywood filmmakers seeking premium theatrical presentation. The reported decision by two major theater chains highlights continuing tensions between traditional exhibitors and streaming companies over exclusive theatrical release windows. IMAX screenings have become an increasingly important component of major film launches, particularly for productions seeking premium ticket sales and event status. Netflix has continued experimenting with theatrical distribution strategies while maintaining its primary focus on streaming subscribers. The limited participation of major exhibitors could affect the film's theatrical reach, depending on the final distribution arrangements. The development underscores the industry's ongoing debate over how streaming backed films should be presented in theaters.

Related coverage