Cineworld reacts to Warner Bros move to release 2021 films on HBO Max

Cineworld (Gareth Fuller/PA)

Cinema chain Cineworld has responded to Warner Bros’ decision to release all of its 2021 releases – including blockbusters such as Dune, Matrix 4 and The Suicide Squad –  on its HBO Max streaming service at the same time as in cinemas in the US, saying cinemas are “the best place to watch a movie”.

The unprecedented move is another seismic blow to the ailing theatre industry, which is reeling from the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.