TORONTO — Netflix is bringing its star-studded whodunit "Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery" to the big screen in Canada.
In a rare agreement, the global streaming company says it has partnered with some of the country's largest cinema chains for an exclusive run of the "Knives Out" sequel from Nov. 23 to 29.
The film, which premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival, will then leave theatres for several weeks and make its debut on Netflix's subscription service on Dec. 23.
A theatrical push of this size marks a shift in Netflix's streaming-centric strategy, which has often put the tech giant at odds with cinema purists.
While some of Netflix's biggest titles had small runs atselect Canadian theatres in the past — including "Roma," "The Gray Man" and "Marriage Story" — this is by far the company's widest theatrical release.
Cineplex, the country's largest cinema chain, says "Glass Onion" will screen at 40 of its theatres, while Landmark Cinemas says 15 of its locations in Western Canada and Ontario will play the film.
Netflix representative Lindsey Scully says "Glass Onion" will play select independent cinemas across Canada as well.
The "Knives Out" franchise follows detective Benoit Blanc, played by Daniel Craig, and a revolving ensemble cast which in the latest film includes Janelle Monae, Edward Norton, Kathryn Hahn and Kate Hudson.
The 2019 original was a breakout theatrical hit that racked up US$311 million at the worldwide box office, leading Netflix to swoop in and buy the rights for two sequels for $450 million, according to Hollywood trade publications.
Bringing the new "Knives Out" to theatres is a win for exhibitors who hoped Netflix might leave room for a theatrical window, while a big-screen release also gives Netflix an opportunity to build more buzz after the film's successful run at several festivals.
Netflix previously announced it would release "Glass Onion" in U.S. theatres and in the United Kingdom.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 11, 2022.
David Friend, The Canadian Press
