Adam Sandler movies can be found all over Netflix, but it is rare one is seen in cinemas; however, it’s for the best. Sandler has more than made a name for himself, yet, he isn’t exactly known for prestigious projects. Sandler’s production company, Happy Madison Productions, has created its own film genre, like Judd Apatow; nevertheless, it can be confining. When Uncut Gems was released in 2019, Sandler shocked viewers with his performance since it was different from his usual persona, but it proved he could successfully move into other genres. People like Adam Sandler movies, but their predictable formula isn’t working at the box office anymore.
Sandler is better off with Netflix because it offers him what most filmmakers don't have— financial security and some creative freedom. Streaming services post-pandemic have changed the movie-going experience to the point that some believe it has hurt mid and low-budget movies (via jstoobs). People are not as willing to risk going out to see just any film, which is why Sandler's Netflix movies are a perfect career match. Netflix's audiences can now watch his movies from the comfort and safety of their own home. However, some may still wonder why so many of his films are on Netflix and what it means for Happy Madison Productions.
Why So Many Adam Sandler Films Are On Netflix
Netflix and Sandler first signed a production deal in 2014, then extended the agreement in 2017, and again in 2020. Even before the pandemic, Sandler's films struggled at the box office, but he clearly found success with Netflix. Instead of dealing with theaters, Sandler managed to cut out the middle-man and produce the same content viewers love on a streaming platform. While they aren't critically acclaimed movies, films like Murder Mystery 2 are perfect examples of the deal's profitability. Murder Mystery, despite less than stellar reviews, managed to draw in over 30 million viewers on opening weekend, so it appears the Netflix/Happy Madison Productions deal is here to stay.
Do Sandler's Netflix Movies Still Appear In Theaters?
Currently, Netflix only releases specific movies in a few hundred theaters for a limited time. While some criticize the present model, which varies on a case-by-case basis, it still stands. However, one of Sandler’s Netflix movies was chosen for a limited release. Hustle spent five days in select theaters before being released worldwide on Netflix and currently stands at 93% on Rotten Tomatoes. Sandler’s follow-up to Uncut Gems had many wondering if he would continue making the same type of movies he’s known for. While he did continue making his usual comedies starring his friends for Netflix, Hustle is an evident outlier.
Sandler recently said he didn’t get into acting for the Oscars, and perhaps this method is an excellent indicator of why he is better off with Netflix. If Sandler is truly only in the movie industry to make content he’s proud of; then his Netflix deal is perfect because it provides stability. The contract is mutually beneficial because the stability allows Sandler not only to make his own movies but also to take chances on outside projects. As a result, Adam Sandler has many upcoming movies like You Are SO Not Invited To My Bat Mitzvah!, Spaceman, and an untitled Safdie brothers project.