Why Was Midnight in Paris Discontinued?

By Michael Ferguson

Midnight in Paris is a romantic comedy film that was released in 2011. Directed by Woody Allen, the movie received critical acclaim and was a commercial success.

However, despite its popularity, the film has been discontinued from major streaming platforms and is no longer available to watch online. So why was Midnight in Paris discontinued? Let’s explore the reasons behind this decision.

The Controversy

One of the main reasons behind the discontinuation of Midnight in Paris is the controversy surrounding its director, Woody Allen. In recent years, several allegations of sexual assault have been made against Allen by his adopted daughter Dylan Farrow.

These allegations date back to 1992 when Farrow was just seven years old. Although Allen has always denied these accusations, they have led to a significant public outcry.

The #MeToo Movement

The #MeToo movement that gained momentum in 2017 also played a crucial role in the discontinuation of Midnight in Paris. The movement brought to light several instances of sexual harassment and abuse by prominent figures across various industries, including Hollywood. As a result, there has been increasing pressure on companies to take action against individuals accused of such behavior.

Streaming Platforms

Another reason why Midnight in Paris was discontinued is due to licensing agreements with streaming platforms. The film’s distribution rights were owned by Sony Pictures Classics, which had an agreement with Netflix and Amazon Prime Video for streaming rights. However, when these contracts expired, they were not renewed due to the controversies surrounding Woody Allen.

The Future of Midnight in Paris

As of now, it is unclear if Midnight in Paris will ever be available on streaming platforms again. However, it can still be purchased or rented through various digital platforms like iTunes or Google Play Store. Additionally, physical copies of the film are still available on DVD and Blu-ray.

The Impact of Controversy on Art

The controversy surrounding Midnight in Paris raises a larger question about the impact of an artist’s personal life on their work. While many argue that art should be separated from the artist, others believe that supporting the work of someone accused of such heinous crimes is problematic. This debate continues to rage on and will likely have implications for other films and works of art in the future.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Midnight in Paris was discontinued due to a combination of factors including the controversy surrounding Woody Allen, the #MeToo movement, and licensing agreements with streaming platforms. While it may still be available through certain digital platforms or physical copies, its discontinuation highlights a larger debate about separating art from the artist.