Amazon Studios is pushing back the release of itsEddie Redmayne-Felicity JonesdramaThe Aeronautsfrom Oct. 25 to Dec. 6, and cutting the film’s theatrical window to just two weeks, as it is now expected to begin streaming on Amazon Prime Video on Dec. 20.
Directed byTom Harper,The Aeronautsis set in 1862 and follows wealthy young widow Amelia Wren (Jones) and headstrong scientist James Glaisher (Redmayne) as they mount a balloon expedition to fly higher than anyone in history. It’s a journey to the edge of a then-known world, where the air is thin and the chances of survival are slim.
The Aeronautshad been slated to receive a traditional theatrical release, including a one-week IMAX engagement. In fact, key action sequences within a hot air balloon were designed with IMAX viewers in mind, but now, the entire IMAX release is, pardon the pun, up in the air.
According to Deadline, Redmayne and Jones were supportive of the decision, which Amazon made with the goal of driving curious film fans towards its streaming service, Amazon Prime Video. I understand collapsing the theatrical window for Sundance acquisitions likeBrittany Runs a Marathon,The ReportorHoney Boy, butThe Aeronautsseems like a movie that’s intended to be seen on the big screen. So on that front, this move feels like something of a blow.
What’s unclear, however, is whether this decision will have any impact on the film’s Oscar chances.The Aeronautswas supposedly seen as Amazon’s prime awards contender, but if a film is streaming in voters' living rooms just two weeks after it hits theaters, does that change its optics? Keep in mind, Netflix gaveRomaa three-week window in theaters, if I’m not mistaken. On the flip side of that coin, willThe Aeronautsget a bump with voters because of its easy accessibility? I’ve heard good things about the film, and expect it to be a major player either way.
Amazon has stressed all along that each of its films will be evaluated on an individual basis as far as its release goes. For example,The Reportwill stream soon after it debuts in theaters, butBrittany Runs a Marathonwill respect the traditional window.
Harper directed from a script byJack Thorne, and he’s also producing alongside Todd Lieberman andDavid Hobermanof Mandeville Films. Thorne is executive producing withRichard Hewitt, and the film co-starsTom Courtenay,Vincent PerezandYesterdaybreakoutHimesh Patel.Deadline broke the news.
