Disney shared an update on the September release of Marvel's Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings during today's earnings call, and it signifies a positive step towards the return to the traditional theatrical window.
The Destin Daniel Cretton-helmed martial arts adventure won't be following the likes of Black Widow and Cruella by releasing simultaneously in theaters and on Disney+, but will instead receive a shortened 45-day theatrical release before hitting the streaming service. 90 days is standard, but this is still seen as a sign of returning confidence in cinema attendance.
Upcoming Ryan Reynolds-starrer Free Guy will get the same treatment this August.
In related news, Disney+ has now reached 103.6 million subscribers worldwide. While this is not to be sniffed at by any means, it is slightly below expectations. Still, the Mouse House's overall direct-to-consumer business delivered revenue of $4 billion, up 59 percent from the same quarter a year ago.
“We’re pleased to see more encouraging signs of recovery across our businesses, and we remain focused on ramping up our operations while also fueling long-term growth for the Company,” said Chapek in a statement. “This is clearly reflected in the reopening of our theme parks and resorts, increased production at our studios, the continued success of our streaming services, and the expansion of our unrivaled portfolio of multiyear sports rights deals for ESPN and ESPN+.”
Check out the recent Shang-Chi trailer below.