HBO Max this Friday will premiere Wonder Woman 1984, the same day it will debut in movie theaters. The decision to let consumers stream the Wonder Woman sequel at home rather than wait for weeks or months after its theatrical opening is arguably the industry’s most daring in recent history. Warner Media, which is owned by AT&T, paid roughly $200 million to make the film and it’s difficult to envision any way it can recoup its investment under this scenario.
But AT&T also owns HBO Max and it’s hoping Wonder Woman 1984‘s premiere on the streaming service will be the beginning of a beautiful friendship with home viewers. The company has also approved Warner Media’s plan to same-day premiere its entire slate of 2021 theatrical releases, including Matrix 4 and Dune.
So with so much riding on Wonder Woman 1984, the movie better be good, right? Otherwise, AT&T’s executive suite may soon find some new occupants.
Rottentomatoes.com, which tracks critical reviews, currently gives the movie a score of 83 out of a possible 100, based on 120 reviews. That may not be a home run, but it sounds like it’s good enough to save the day.
“Great Hera! Wonder Woman 1984 is an epic dose of heart and vibrant escapism that proves there are still unexpected thrills to be found in superhero cinema,” the site states, summarizing the reviews.
Update: Since this article was published, Wonder Woman 1984‘s score has fallen 18 points at Rottentomatoes.com. There are now 285 reviews. The movie debuted two days ago.
In case you’re wondering what the film is about, here’s the plot summary from Warner:
“Diana Prince lives quietly among mortals in the vibrant, sleek 1980s — an era of excess driven by the pursuit of having it all. Though she’s come into her full powers, she maintains a low profile by curating ancient artifacts, and only performing heroic acts incognito. But soon, Diana will have to muster all of her strength, wisdom and courage as she finds herself squaring off against Maxwell Lord and the Cheetah, a villainess who possesses superhuman strength and agility.”
Okay, we’re in.
Wonder Woman 1984 can be seen on HBO Max this Friday, starting at noon ET. The streaming service costs $14.99 a month.
Featured image: Gal Gadot as Wonder Woman.