Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings will only be released exclusively to theaters for 45 days after the September 3 release. It will not be hitting the cinemas and on Disney+ at the same time, just like other Disney big-screen films during the COVID-19 pandemic.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Disney released some of its films in theaters, as well as on its streaming platform. However, there is an extra $30 charge on top of the monthly subscription fee to view the film. Mulan was the first film that was from Disney to go in this route. The additional $30 on top of the streaming fee is called Disney+ Premier Access.
After Mulan, Raya and the Last Dragon followed suit. Disney is also planning to release their upcoming films such as Cruella and Jungle Cruise. Under the Marvel banner, Black Widow will also be released this way.
Disney did not mention the plans for any movie releases after Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings. This latest announcement may signal that Marvel Eternals and other big-budget Disney films may have some pre-pandemic practices in its release to have an exclusive release in the movie theaters for a certain timeframe. The 45-day window of theater exclusivity that Shang-Chi offers is shorter than the normal period which is 75 days or more.
Disney did not specify whether the film will go to Disney+ after 45 days in theaters but the company reiterated that the movies will eventually go to the platform. Before the pandemic hits, the theatrical films will take about five to nine months before going to Disney+.
Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Rings will be released in theaters on September 3, 2021.
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