Netflix has announced the release dates for its premiere batch of original feature films. The first will be the Cary Fukunaga-directed Beasts of No Nation, slated for a October 16th release. Based on Uzodinma Iweala’s novel of the same name, and starring Idris Elba, the story revolves around a young boy recruited to fight in an African civil war.Adam Sandler’s The Ridiculous Six — which sparked controversy back in April due to its portrayal of Apache culture— is next in line for a Netflix premiere on December 11th. It will the first of four Netflix-exclusive Sandler films (yes, four).
For early 2016, they have Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon: The Green Legend lined up, which is directed by Yuen Woo-Ping and stars Michelle Yeoh, reprising her role as Yu Shu-Lien. Also, Pee-Wee’s Big Holiday will arrive in March of 2016.
Netflix’s recent purchase of Brad Pitt’s War Machine underscored just how intent the home streaming service is on becoming a big player in production and distribution. With the increasing reluctance on the part of studios to back projects that aren’t guaranteed box office mega-success (hello Jurassic World and the never ending reboots), Netflix could become a welcome alternative for filmmakers.