Mark Ruffalo has joined the debate, with James Cameron opposing Netflix’s purchase of Warner Bros. In response to the writer/director of Avatar’s recent letter asserting that the acquisition would be “disastrous for the theatrical motion picture business,” Ruffalo questioned whether Cameron shared his sentiments regarding a possible Paramount sale.
“So,” he commented on Threads, ” the next question to Mr Cameron should be this. Are you also against the monopolization that a Paramount acquisition would create? Or is it just that of Netflix?”
He added, “I think the answer would be very interesting for the film community to hear and one that should be asked immediately. Is Mike Lee against the Paramount sale as well? Is he as concerned about that as he is the Netflix sale? We all want to know. …Speaking on behalf of hundreds of thousands of filmmakers worldwide.”
Cameron stated that Ted Sarandos’ plans for Netflix “are directly opposed to the health of the cinema marketplace” in his letter to Representative Mike Lee. He stated, in part, “I am but a humble movie farmer. And I see my future creativity and productivity directly threatened by this proposed sale. I’m sure there are many in the motion picture community… writers, producers, directors, exhibitors, craft Guilds, film crew employees, and service providers who agree with me. Many will choose not to be as vocal as I am, because Netflix is a major employer into the foreseeable future.”
“But I know I speak for many,” Cameron continued. “A vast groundswell, in fact. I hope you will consider my concerns as you further investigate this proposed transaction.”
