Today, most movies are released on
DVD 16 to 12 weeks after their theatrical premiere, but this is not a steadfast rule. If a movie is doing exceptionally well in theaters, the DVD release may be delayed, and if it bombs, the release may be pushed up. Independent movies, which usually open in a few theaters before expanding slowly across the country, usually have longer windows between their theatrical release and their release on DVD. Other factors, such as Academy Award nominations or a crowded release schedule can affect the release of a DVD.