Movie theaters have remained closed since March due to the coronavirus pandemic, with several production studios holding off releasing their big films. Marvel is no exception of course; Phase 4 of the Marvel Cinematic Universe has already been pushed back and is scheduled all the way through 2022. However, a Disney analyst expects that there won't be any film releases in the 2020 fiscal year and that theaters won't upon until mid-2021.
The Hollywood Reporter brings word that Doug Creutz, an analyst for Cowen, says cinemas could be in store for a hiatus beyond 2020. "We had previously assumed that the spread of COVID-19 would be relatively halted," Creutz writes. " With social distancing requirements significantly lessened by late 2020."
"We have now extended that timeline out to at least mid-2021; the situation remains very fluid," the analyst added. "And we do not rule out the possibility that the impact could last even longer." As mentioned, Creutz doesn't expect any film releases in the 2020 fiscal year, which ends at different times for various companies. For Disney, it concludes in September.
Black Widow is expected to arrive in November while The Falcon and the Winter Soldier, which is set to kick off Phase 4, isn't included on Disney+'s August releases. If Creutz's analysis is right, this could be the second time that Marvel Studios would adjust their Phase 4 slate because of the pandemic. Add the fact that the upcoming Disney+ shows in Phase 4 could be affected by another possible delay as well.
All that being said, it's important to keep in mind that this is only just one analyst's opinion and the guesses on this sector vary widely. However, Creutz has been an analyst for 20 years and is expected to be ready for what's to come for clients who invest millions or billions. So while it is devastating for theaters, especially independent ones who have already found themselves struggling just months upon closing, the likelihood of Cruetz's prediction coming true seems probable.
What are your thoughts on Creutz's analysis? Tell us in the comments below!
Also Read: The Falcon and The Winter Soldier Seemingly Removed from Disney+ August Schedule
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