The COVID-19 outbreak has changed how we operate within the world. With lockdowns in place, there’s no doubt that several industries across the globe have been affected. None more so than that of the film and cinema industry.
With cinemas and theatres shutting its doors, film studios have had to resort to shifting release schedules and choosing to release films digitally.
Paramount Pictures is one of those studios, opting to release Sonic The Hedgehog tomorrow, just 1.5 months after its cinematic release.
Sonic The Hedgehog
Based on the global blockbuster video game franchise from Sega, Sonic the Hedgehog tells the story of the world’s speediest hedgehog as he embraces his new home on Earth.
The film had the highest-grossing opening for a video-game adaptation, making over $300 million dollars at the global box office.
Given it’s popularity at the box office, releasing the film digitally for at home viewing makes sense. This is especially so, since most of the world is currently stuck in isolation at home. Whilst this ensures continued revenue for film studios, it’s uncertain how cinemas will fair.
Other Home Video Releases
Alongside Sonic The Hedgehog, here’s a list of other blockbuster films that have been fast-tracked to home release given the current climate:
- The Invisible Man
- 1917
- Bombshell
- Jojo Rabbit
- Spies in Disguise
- Ford v Ferrari
- Birds of Prey
- Midway
- Go!
- The Gentlemen
- Miss Fisher and the Crypt of Tears
- Disturbing the Peace
- Primal
All these titles are available across a variety of digital platforms including; Apple TV app/ iTunes, Fetch, Foxtel Store, Google Play, Microsoft Store, PlayStation Store and Telstra TV Box Office.
What do you think about the state of cinema and films right now?