Studios consider offering films for rent in cinemas two weeks after release

American film studios are considering renting films online within two weeks of the theatrical release, according to a new rumor. That writes financial news agency Bloomberg. There are still many snags to the plan.

Consumers would have to pay between $25 and $50 to watch a movie at home shortly after its release in theaters, Bloomberg reported. That’s in line with the price of two cinema tickets in major American cities.

A Warner Bros executive confirms the plans, saying “constructive talks” have been held between film studios and other stakeholders to make the plan a reality: “Apart from the feasibility of the plan and whether we are able to reach an agreement , we need to offer consumers more choices at an earlier stage.”

It is still unknown in which ways film studios will offer the films. This could be done via its own service online or via services from third parties such as Apple’s iTunes or cable companies. Moreover, it is not clear whether it only applies to the American market or whether film enthusiasts worldwide can watch films in their own home cinema shortly after release.

In previous negotiations, cinema operators wanted compensation for any lost income if people watch films at home that can also be seen in the cinema.