Netflix and Sony Pictures expand partnership with global theatrical deal

Netflix will stream Sony Pictures’ theatrical releases worldwide under a new Pay-1 deal starting 2027

Netflix and Sony Pictures Entertainment (SPE) have expanded their long-running partnership with a new global “Pay-1” theatrical deal. 

Under this multi-year agreement, Netflix will become the exclusive first streaming home for Sony’s feature films worldwide after their theatrical and home entertainment runs.

The deal, running from 2027 through 2032, builds on the previous U.S.-focused Pay-1 licensing agreement in place since 2022. It will gradually roll out across territories, with full global availability expected by early 2029. Netflix subscribers will also gain access to select titles from Sony’s extensive film and television catalog.

Confirmed films under the agreement include some of Sony’s biggest franchises and anticipated releases. These include Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse, the conclusion to the animated trilogy; The Legend of Zelda, Nintendo’s live-action adaptation; The Beatles Quartet, a four-film project directed by Sam Mendes; The Nightingale, based on Kristin Hannah’s bestseller; and Buds, a new feature from Sony Pictures Animation.

Lauren Smith, Netflix Vice President of Licensing and Programming Strategy, highlighted the value of the deal for international audiences, noting that access to Sony’s iconic franchises and original titles like Anyone But You will enhance the global streaming experience. Paul Littmann, EVP of Global Distribution at Sony Pictures Television, emphasized that the arrangement underscores Sony’s independence while unifying streaming rights worldwide, ending the regional fragmentation that often saw movies available on different services in different markets.

This landmark Pay-1 agreement ensures that Netflix becomes the definitive streaming destination for Sony Pictures films, including major franchises like Spider-Man, Jumanji, and Ghostbusters, giving global audiences a front-row seat to some of the studio’s most anticipated releases.