Warner Bros. Discussing Major Move With DC Comics Amid Netflix Merger

Warner Bros. is discussing a major move with DC Comics amid the company's merger with streaming giant Netflix.

Netflix's acquisition of Warner Bros., which comes with the latter's media library and HBO properties, shook up the entertainment world. However, there are other moves afoot amid the merger news.

According to KTLA-TV, fans may see "more theme park rides based on Batman, Superman and DC Comic characters," including at Universal Studios. Bloomberg first broke the news that Warner Bros. was considering "licensing DC rides to Universal Parks."

Six Flags Theme Parks Currently Offer Rides Based on DC Comics Superheroes

Warner Bros. "currently licenses its DC properties to Six Flags Entertainment Corp.," KTLA reported. So, the new change would expand the number of rides featuring popular superheroes.

Currently, according to KTLA, Six Flags Magic Mountain offers rides that are based on Batman and Lex Luthor.

"Today, Netflix, Inc. (the Company) and Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc. (WBD) announced they have entered into a definitive agreement under which Netflix will acquire Warner Bros., including its film and television studios, HBO Max and HBO," Netflix announced on December 5.

Slash Film raised concerns that some DC Comics superhero movies won't see theatrical release anymore as a result of the merger. There has been much fan angst and analysis about what the Warner Bros. purchase could mean for DC Comics.

"Our mission has always been to entertain the world,” said Ted Sarandos, co-CEO of Netflix, after the merger was announced. “By combining Warner Bros.’ incredible library of shows and movies—from timeless classics like Casablanca andCitizen Kane to modern favorites like Harry Potter and Friends—with our culture-defining titles like Stranger Things, KPop Demon Hunters and Squid Game, we'll be able to do that even better. Together, we can give audiences more of what they love and help define the next century of storytelling.” 

Netflix said in the release, "By adding the deep film and TV libraries and HBO and HBO Max programming, Netflix members will have even more high-quality titles from which to choose. This also allows Netflix to optimize its plans for consumers, enhancing viewing options and expanding access to content."

Netflix Is Already Expanding Off the Internet With the 'Netflix House' Concept

Netflix has expanded off line into the entertainment space already. For example, according to Netflix's Tudum site, the streamer opened something called "Netflix House Philadelphia at King of Prussia."

What is it? An immersive attraction. "Our House is free to enter and explore: Once you’re inside, take selfies with beloved characters like Queen Charlotte, enjoy screenings of hit movies like KPop Demon Hunters, or have a meal and a cocktail at Netflix Bites restaurant," the Tudum release explained.

"You can also purchase tickets that will allow you to participate in larger-than-life experiences — think: an eye-popping macabre carnival that only Wednesday Addams could design," Netflix wrote.

"Spanning more than 100,000 square feet, Netflix House is a first-of-its-kind, permanent, year-round home for fans that’s free to enter and brings some of our most popular shows and movies to life — including Wednesday, Squid Game, ONE PIECE, Stranger Things, KPop Demon Hunters, Love Is Blind, and A Knives OutMystery franchise — through first-of-their-kind, immersive, story-driven experiences," Netflix wrote.

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