Marrakech – Acclaimed South Korean filmmaker Bong Joon Ho, serving as jury president at the 22nd Marrakech International Film Festival, dismissed concerns that Netflix’s acquisition of Warner Bros. will eliminate theatrical cinema experiences during the festival’s final day.

“I don’t think the cinematic experience will disappear so easily,” Bong told festival audiences when questioned about the $82.7 billion deal announced Friday. The Oscar-winning director of “Parasite” acknowledged streaming as “a good way to watch and enjoy movies” while stressing the irreplaceable value of theatrical screenings.

Speaking in conversation with Nashen Moodley, director of the Sydney Film Festival since 2012, Bong appeared unfazed by Hollywood industry anxieties. “To be honest, I don’t know what’s going on there in LA. I’m just a South Korean guy staying at home,” he said with characteristic humility during Saturday’s extensive hour-and-a-half interview.

The 56-year-old filmmaker praised the Marrakech festival’s commitment to theatrical presentation. Over ten days, he and jury members “really enjoyed” watching two films daily “in the big theater, with the big screen,” he noted. The festival represents a unique platform where “visions, aesthetics, and sensibilities from around the world meet,” Bong stated.

Bong, who has worked with both compa