Lionsgate Play is stepping up its presence in India with a renewed focus on theatrical distribution, planning to bring 10–12 premium Hollywood titles to cinemas annually starting September 2026 before their digital debut.

According to a report by The Economic Times, the move marks a strategic shift for the streamer as it looks to build a stronger connect with theatrical audiences while also enhancing the lifecycle of its content across platforms.

The company’s theatrical-first approach will see a curated slate of films released on the big screen first, followed by an exclusive premiere on Lionsgate Play. The strategy is designed to create a seamless transition from cinemas to streaming, allowing films to benefit from both theatrical visibility and digital reach.

This model reflects a growing trend among global content players who are re-evaluating release windows to maximise audience engagement and revenue potential. By prioritising theatres initially, Lionsgate Play aims to tap into the continued demand for cinematic experiences, especially for high-scale Hollywood productions.

The move is also expected to strengthen the platform’s positioning in India’s competitive streaming market, where differentiation increasingly depends on content strategy and distribution innovation. A theatrical rollout offers added scale, visibility, and marketing momentum before films move to the digital ecosystem.

With this approach, Lionsgate Play is looking to bridge the gap between traditional and digital consumption, building a more integrated content journey that caters to evolving audience preferences while expanding its footprint in the Indian entertainment landscape.