From September Netflix US is to become the exclusive home of Disney, Marvel, Lucasfilm and Pixar’s future films and back catalogue.
The deal was signed by the two firms in 2012 and comes into effect from this summer.
Unlike previous tie-ups Netflix is obtaining all rights, not just those for streaming, meaning the studios’ titles will be unavailable to customers of any other US pay-TV service including cable firms.
The multi-year deal covers films released theatrically from 2016 onwards and will make Netflix the exclusive US home of future Star Wars and Avengers titles.
By snapping up all US rights Netflix will be able to significantly boost its appeal, potentially accelerating the number of customers who switch from traditional, high-cost pay-TV services to its contract-free offering.