Zach Cregger’s new sci-fi movie, The Flood, is currently stalled at Netflix due to the streaming service’s refusal to support a major theatrical release. The project has faced delays after Netflix decided against backing a theatrical rollout.
Cregger, known for his film Weapons, originally wrote The Flood under Amblin in partnership with Netflix. Following the commercial success of Weapons, which earned $267 million globally, Netflix sought to secure Cregger’s involvement for this sci-fi original.
According to multiple sources, Netflix Films chairman Dan Lin traveled to Prague during Cregger’s work on Sony’s Resident Evil to persuade him to direct The Flood for Netflix. Lin initially promised a theatrical commitment to lure Cregger.
“The real question is whether Netflix backs down or they let Cregger take it out [to a different studio] because Zach remains committed to a theatrical release,” said an insider familiar with the situation.
Despite Lin's assurances, Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos later rejected the idea of a theatrical release for the film. Since Cregger insists on making the movie for theaters, the project is now in limbo and its plot details remain undisclosed.
The future of The Flood depends on whether Netflix reverses its stance or allows Cregger to partner with another studio, as he is determined to release the film theatrically.
Zach Cregger’s commitment to a theatrical release for The Flood clashes with Netflix’s streaming focus, leaving the sci-fi project’s fate uncertain.