The New York Times has entered exclusive negotiations to acquire Letterboxd, the social platform where movie fans log, rate, and review everything they watch, for roughly $330 million. That price is significantly higher than Letterboxd’s projected 2026 earnings of around $15 million, which has a lot of people talking about what the platform is actually worth.
The interest in Letterboxd isn’t new. Netflix, A24, and Sony were all reportedly interested in the platform last summer. But the Times moved into exclusive talks, and while the deal could still fall apart, it’s a sign that big media companies see serious value in niche social platforms built around passionate communities. Letterboxd keeps expanding its VOD Video Store too, recently adding titles like Coyote vs. Acme, and even Anne Hathaway has posted a rave review on the platform.
For users, the big question is whether a Times-owned Letterboxd keeps its indie spirit. The app has built a devoted following by feeling like a corner of the internet made by movie fans, for movie fans. A sale to a legacy media giant could mean more resources and growth, or it could change the vibe entirely. So what do you think? Would you keep using Letterboxd if the New York Times owned it?
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Local Lawton
Local Lawton is a contributor to LocalBeat, covering local news and community stories.