Universal Distributing New Releases Digitally Due to Coronavirus

After theaters across the country have been forced to close due to the Coronavirus pandemic, Universal is still hoping to keep movie-lovers entertained. Starting this coming weekend, Universal will be releasing new films releases digitally for fans to enjoy.

The press release mainly concerned the upcoming release of the animated Trolls World Tour, which will be available digitally the same day as its theatrical release, April 10th. That being said, Universal is also releasing films that are currently in theaters, such as The Invisible Man, The Hunt, and Emma. 

The recently released films will be available starting this weekend across multiple on-demand services across all platforms. At the moment, Universal claims the suggested retail price of each film is $19.99 and will be available for a 48-hour rental period.

Jeff Shell, CEO of NBCUniversal, commented on the choice in a press release earlier this week:

Universal Pictures has a broad and diverse range of movies with 2020 being no exception. Rather than delaying these films or releasing them into a challenged distribution landscape, we wanted to provide an option for people to view these titles in the home that is both accessible and affordable. We hope and believe that people will still go to the movies in theaters where available, but we understand that for people in different areas of the world that is increasingly becoming less possible.

As of right now, Trolls World Tour, Emma, The Hunt, and The Invisible Man will become available as early as Friday, March 20th. If you’re curious about other productions shut down due to the Coronavirus, here is a beginning list.

Are you hoping to check out some of Universal’s films on-demand this coming weekend? Let us know in the comments below, and keep coming back to The Nerd Stash for all of your nerdy news and needs!