Netflix Takeover May Doom Tom Cruise's Sci-Fi Sequel
Fans have waited over a decade for a sequel to the 2014 sci-fi hit Edge of Tomorrow. Now, a potential corporate shake-up involving Netflix and Warner Bros. could put the entire project in jeopardy, sparking a clash with its biggest star. What does this mean for the future of the franchise?
The 2014 science fiction film Edge of Tomorrow has remained a fan favorite for years. For more than a decade, audiences have eagerly anticipated a follow-up to the Tom Cruise movie, but a potential acquisition of Warner Bros. by Netflix could present a major roadblock. Fans have taken to social media to express their worries, suggesting that the streaming giant's business model might make a sequel impossible.
This audio clip of the actor originated from a separate incident after the pandemic, where crew members were not wearing masks. However, fans are now using the recording humorously to illustrate a potential showdown between Cruise and Netflix executives following the corporate buyout.
Fans Fear the Sequel Will Never Happen
Directed by Doug Liman, the original film follows Major William Cage (Tom Cruise), who finds himself stuck in a time loop while battling an alien species attacking Earth. He gets help from warrior Rita Vrataski, portrayed by Emily Blunt, to fight the invaders while navigating the strange reality of his situation.
Although it wasn't as big as some of Cruise's other blockbusters, Edge of Tomorrow became a sleeper hit, earning praise from both fans and critics after its release. This led to a long-standing desire for a sequel to the iconic movie. It now seems that Netflix's focus on streaming over traditional theatrical releases has fans concerned that Edge of Tomorrow 2 may never come to fruition.
Why the Netflix-Warner Bros. Deal is Bad News
Tom Cruise is often credited with saving the movie theater industry after the pandemic with his 2022 film, Top Gun: Maverick. The actor is a passionate supporter of the theatrical experience and watching films in a cinema.
With a Netflix acquisition, however, reports suggest the company's main goal will be to drive subscribers to its streaming platform. This approach naturally means shorter theatrical windows and more limited releases. As a champion of the big-screen experience, Tom Cruise would have a difficult time collaborating with Netflix, especially if their distribution strategy relies heavily on streaming instead of wide theatrical runs.