Netflix Co-CEO believes 'Barbie' and 'Oppenheimer' would thrive on streaming platform

Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos recently asserted in a New York Times interview that the 2023 box office hits "Barbie" and "Oppenheimer" would have been just as successful if released on the streaming platform.

During the interview, Sarandos discussed what type of content isn't suitable for Netflix, mentioning breaking news due to the availability of other outlets. When asked about the theatrical success of "Barbie" and "Oppenheimer," Sarandos confidently stated that both films would have found a massive audience on Netflix.

Sarandos dismissed the notion that certain types of movies are exclusive to specific platforms, highlighting that even his 28-year-old son watched "Lawrence of Arabia" on his phone. He emphasised that screen size doesn't determine a movie's success for everyone.

This statement aligns with Netflix's current film strategy, which focuses on a mix of licensed and original films. Sarandos confirmed in January that the company doesn't plan to change this strategy, despite the departure of film chairman Scott Stuber. He believes this blend of content works best to entertain a global audience.