James Cameron, a prominent filmmaker in Hollywood, has voiced his strong opposition to Netflix's impending acquisition of Warner Bros, warning that such a move could spell disaster for the film industry. In a letter addressed to U.S. Senator Mike Lee, Cameron articulated his concerns regarding how this merger could negatively impact the future work of filmmakers, including himself. He emphasized that while his films are available in secondary video markets, his primary passion lies in traditional cinema and its future viability.

The director's apprehension is rooted in the fear that Netflix's ownership could drastically limit the number of Warner films released in theaters, thereby threatening the livelihoods of many industry professionals. Cameron argued that although Netflix has released some films in theaters previously, these instances were few and lacked the commitment necessary to bolster theatrical cinema. Moreover, he suggested that their limited releases were primarily motivated by the necessity to meet eligibility requirements for the Academy Awards, rather than a genuine dedication to the theatrical experience.

Cameron's comments highlight a growing concern within the film community about the rising influence of streaming platforms on conventional cinema. He underscores the idea that the continuation of traditional moviegoing experiences is vital for the industry’s health and job security for countless workers in the field. His warnings serve as a rallying cry for filmmakers and cinema advocates who fear that potential corporate consolidations could diminish the diversity and richness of film narratives available to audiences.