Acclaimed director Sean Baker, known for his groundbreaking film Anora, has urged filmmakers to safeguard the theatrical experience in light of the recent Netflix acquisition of Warner Bros. This transformative deal encompasses Warner Bros.’ film and television divisions, including HBO and HBO Max, as well as its gaming operations. Baker made these remarks at the Red Sea International Film Festival, where he serves as the head of the international jury.
Baker emphasized the necessity of maintaining traditional theatrical release models, stating, “We should not be reducing theatrical windows — we should be expanding them.” He voiced his concerns about the industry’s trend towards shorter theatrical releases, advocating instead for a minimum of a 100-day window for his next project. “When you go directly to streaming, it diminishes the importance of a film. The theatrical experience elevates it,” he explained.
Optimism for Cinema’s Future
Despite concerns regarding declining attendance at theaters, Baker remains hopeful, particularly about younger audiences. He pointed out that the primary demographic for Anora was Gen Z, countering the notion that young people are disinterested in cinema. “In L.A., when I go to the movies, it’s usually Gen Z. They see the value in the communal experience — focusing on a film without distractions,” he noted.
Baker’s success with Anora, where he made history by winning four Oscars in a single night, has led to numerous offers from studios. However, he has no intention of pursuing large-scale blockbuster projects. “I’m not going for the next $150 million studio thing,” Baker stated. Instead, he aims to work with a small, dedicated team, reiterating the importance of a passionate, guerrilla-style approach to filmmaking.
Reflecting on Awards and Supporting New Filmmakers
Baker recently took time to reflect on his historic Oscar achievements, acknowledging the whirlwind of events following the awards. Just 36 hours after Oscar night, he and his wife, Samantha Kwan, traveled to Tokyo for the Japanese release of Anora, followed closely by the Cannes premiere of his co-written film, Left-Handed Girl. “There was no slowing down,” he remarked, recalling the excitement and challenges that came with his success.
As the jury head at the Red Sea Film Festival, Baker is particularly focused on supporting independent filmmakers. He understands the struggles of the industry, stating, “Independent film is a struggle. My life was basically saved when I won cash awards back in the day.” He is enthusiastic about the festival’s commitment to providing substantial prizes, up to $100,000, recognizing how life-changing such support can be for emerging artists.
Baker concluded his remarks by expressing his desire to elevate new filmmakers from the Arab region and beyond, showcasing their work on a global platform. His commitment to preserving the theatrical experience and nurturing independent voices underscores the enduring value of cinema in today’s rapidly changing landscape.
