Netflix has signed a landmark global licensing agreement with Sony Pictures Entertainment, securing exclusive first streaming rights to the studio’s feature films after their theatrical and home entertainment windows.
Under the multi-year agreement, Netflix will become theexclusive ‘Pay-1’ streaming home for Sony Pictures films worldwide.
This means that once Sony’s movies finish their runs in cinemas and on digital rental or purchase platforms, they will debut on Netflix before becoming available to any other streaming service.
The rollout of the agreement will begin gradually from late 2026, as existing licensing arrangements in different territories expire.
Full global coverage is expected by 2029, when Netflix will hold Pay-1 rights to Sony’s theatrical releases across most international markets.
In addition to new releases, the deal also allows Netflix to license select titles from Sony’s extensive film library, further bolstering its catalogue with established hits and fan-favorite franchises.
Sony’s slate includes blockbuster franchises and high-profile projects such as Spider-Man, Jumanji, Bad Boys, Venom, and a growing list of live-action adaptations and prestige films.
Anticipated future releases, including animated and franchise expansions, are expected to benefit from the agreement once they reach the streaming window.
The move simplifies access for viewers, reducing regional inconsistencies where films might previously appear on different platforms depending on country or territory.
For Netflix, the partnership is a strategic win at a time when competition among streaming services is intensifying.
With studios increasingly reclaiming their content for in-house platforms, securing a steady pipeline of theatrical films from a major studio gives Netflix a strong edge.
The deal also reinforces Netflix’s long-term strategy of blending original productions with premium licensed content.
While Netflix has invested heavily in producing its own films, blockbuster studio releases remain a major draw for subscribers, particularly in international markets.
Sony Pictures’ decision to deepen its relationship with Netflix reflects a different approach from studios like Disney and Warner Bros., which operate their own streaming platforms.
Rather than investing heavily in building and maintaining a global direct-to-consumer service, Sony has opted to monetize its content through strategic licensing deals.
This model allows Sony to benefit from the massive global reach of Netflix while maintaining flexibility in how it distributes its films across theatrical, home entertainment, and television windows.
The agreement is expected to run well into the next decade, providing long-term stability for both companies.