Walt Disney Studios has made some major updates to its summer release lineup. Along with the update, Disney announced a day-and-date premiere format for the films Cruella and Black Widow, meaning the flicks will make their way to theaters and Disney+ (with Premier Access) simultaneously. 

The dual-release is only available in the U.S. as Disney+ has yet to launch internationally. The summer lineup will be available in theaters globally, but those premiere dates have yet to be announced. Keep in mind that the streaming service’s Premier Access charges a $30 USD fee, so even financially you’ll have the theater experience of doling out money at the ticket booth.   

Disney Media & Entertainment Distribution Chairman Kareem Daniel explains the company’s change in distribution strategy, “Today’s announcement reflects our focus on providing consumer choice and serving the evolving preferences of audiences.  By leveraging a flexible distribution strategy in a dynamic marketplace that is beginning to recover from the global pandemic, we will continue to employ the best options to deliver The Walt Disney Company’s unparalleled storytelling to fans and families around the world.”

Disney’s two summer tentpoles have received new release dates and the day-and-date treatment, starting with the Live-Action Cruella starring Emma Stone on May 28th. Marvel Studios’ highly-anticipated Black Widow will have its dual premiere on July 9th. Disney and Pixar’s newest animation Luca will release exclusively on Disney+ and skip theaters in the same fashion as Oscar-nominated Soul’s release in December 2020. 

Other Disney titles that received updated release times include:

Free Guy – August 13, 2021

Shang Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings – September 3, 2021

The King’s Man – December 22, 2021

Deep Water – January 14, 2022

Death on the Nile – February 11, 2022