In the survival of the fittest Jungle Book adaptation, it looks like Mowgli may have lost. Netflix has acquired the worldwide distribution rights to Andy Serkis‘ long-gestating film from Warner Bros., which dropped the film from its planned October theatrical release. Reports that Netflix will distribute Mowgli on its streaming service with a planned release date in 2019. Had originally slated the film, directed by and starring Serkis, for an October 19, 2018 release, but that date will be “recalibrated” for an event offering by Netflix next year. Part of Netflix’s release plans, apart from a premiere on the streaming service, include a theatrical release to showcase the 3D effects Serkis developed for the film. Serkis said in an interview accompanying the Netflix acquisition: “I’m really excited about Netflix for Mowgli. Now, we avoid comparisons to the other movie and it’s a relief not to have the pressure. I’ve seen the 3D version, and it’s exceptional, a different view from the 2D version, really lush and with great depth, and there will be some kind of theatrical component for thatThis way of going allows us to get the film out without compromise.” This move comes after the studio had delayed the release of Mowgli multiple times.
The Jungle Book 2, a sequel to the hit currently playing in theaters. Jungle Book director Jon Favreau and screenwriter Justin Marks will also work on the followup. Maleficent 2, a sequel to the 2014 Sleeping Beauty re-telling. The Jungle Book 2 is a 2003 animated film produced by the Australian office at DisneyToon Studios and released by Walt Disney Pictures and Buena Vista Distribution. The theatrical version of the film was released in France on February 5, 2003, and released in the United States on February 14, 2003.