Netflix partners with iPic to show its original movies in theaters

LOS ANGELES, Oct. 7 (UPI) -- Media streaming giant Netflix is partnering with iPic theater chain to show its original films in the luxury theaters across the country starting mid-October.

Netflix and iPic kick off the partnership with a debut of the film The Siege of Jadotfille at iPic's Los Angeles theater on Friday.

The nationwide release of Mascots comes to iPic theaters on Oct. 13, the same day it debuts on Netflix.

iPic currently has 15 theaters across the country and offers reclining seats and push-button food and drink service included in the price of admission which ranges from $18 to $29 for theater members.

"Movie theaters are worried," said Jeff Bock, an analyst for Exhibitor Relations, an entertainment research firm. "This represents a direct hit to their business that shakes them to the core."

Netflix's chief content officer Ted Sarandos said the move to join forces with iPic was "natural."

"Consumer choice is a pillar of our philosophy and the unparalleled level of comfort and hospitality offered at iPic made this a natural partnership," he said.