This will be a short think piece that was sparked by the obvious COVID-19 outbreak (obviously). What we know is that many industries are going to suffer during this hiatus of society’s usual goings-on throughout the entire world. Since this is a film website, I’m focusing just on the film industry (though there are many industries, including more important ones, suffering right now). Already, we are seeing some major shifts in the span of only a week to combat the speed of the virus. The latest news is that various films are being shoved straight to digital release, as a means of not losing too much money during the shut downs of theatre houses. These started off as films that were previously in theatres not too long ago (like Frozen 2), but now works that are still in theatres are being released as well (The Invisible Man).

For this time being, it’s probably wise if studios come up with some sort of temporary digital catalogue for new releases, maybe even before it is too late to make this decision (and they cannot make back their money quickly enough). It would be devastating if that became the norm, and physical theatres ceased to exist, especially if the ball gets rolling right now. However, I’d like to imagine that there are still many of us into the movie going experience that want to go see these new films on the big screen. However, we’re looking at current survival right now. Many major works are postponed: either to a few months from now, next year, or even indefinitely. I think we should be looking at current releases on a digital platform. Worst comes to worst — if it isn’t a setback cost wise — these films can be rereleased in theatres when the time is right.

Sitting idle may not be the best idea, especially since no one is exactly sure how long this crisis will go on for. We’re in self quarantine mode, and the virus is still spreading in large numbers. Studios and theatre chains can wait this out for the month or so we all feel we need, but even then, it may be too late. With the stock market plummeting, it may be in the best interest for companies to prepare for worst case scenarios right away. Precautions are already being made, but I honestly believe the film industry should be making even bigger strides right now. It’s already in a bit of a weird place, even before this outbreak. This could put the theatre experience in a major limbo.

Andreas Babiolakis has a Masters degree in Film and Photography Preservation and Collections management from Ryerson University, as well as a Bachelors degree in Cinema Studies from York University. His favourite times of year are the Criterion Collection flash sales and the annual Toronto International Film Festival.

A Movie Transition During COVID-19