Disney to Cease DVD and Blu-ray Production, Sony to Take Over Distribution - Disney Movie Club to Close after 23 Years

Disney has announced that it will no longer produce or sell DVDs and Blu-rays, with Sony taking over production and sales later this year. This means that Disney's vast collection of films, including those from subsidiaries like Marvel, Pixar, and Lucasfilm, will now be released by Sony. The Disney Movie Club, which has been offering exclusive discs to members in North America since 2001, will also be shutting down permanently.

Members of the Disney Movie Club will have until May 20, 2024 to place their final orders before the service comes to an end. This news comes at a time when sales of physical media have been declining for years. In 2023, 28% fewer DVDs and Blu-rays were sold in the U.

S. compared to the previous year. The Digital Entertainment Group predicts that total disc revenue will drop below $1 billion for the first time in 2024, signaling a significant shift in the way consumers are purchasing and watching movies.

The decline in physical media sales is further highlighted by the fact that fewer and fewer stores are carrying DVDs and Blu-rays. Even streaming giant Netflix has moved away from its DVD by mail service, emphasizing its focus on digital content. These trends suggest that the era of films on disc may be drawing to a close.

With Sony now in charge of producing and selling Disney's discs, it will have access to a vast library of titles, both new releases and classics. This partnership between two entertainment powerhouses will likely shape the future of home entertainment. Disney fans who have relied on the Disney Movie Club for exclusive releases will need to find new ways to access their favorite films.

As streaming services continue to gain popularity and new technologies emerge, it's clear that the way we consume media is evolving. While physical media may be on the decline, there are still dedicated fans who appreciate the tangible experience of owning DVDs and Blu-rays. However, with the convenience and accessibility of streaming services, it's no surprise that more consumers are opting for digital formats.

It will be interesting to see how Sony handles the distribution of Disney's films, and what new strategies they may implement to adapt to the changing landscape of home entertainment. As the industry continues to shift towards digital platforms, traditional methods of movie distribution may become even more obsolete. The eventual end of films on disc may be inevitable, but for now, there are still options for those who prefer a physical movie collection.