The President of National Association for Theater Chain Owners, John Fithian has taken Netflix to task for their handling of Martin Scorsese's gangster epic "The Irishman". Fithian, who isn't one for mincing his words has called Netflix "a disgrace" in a fuming statement "Netflix is facing a challenge to their business model for the first time and missed a strategic opportunity."

He further added " They are competing now for subscribers and filmmakers with companies with deep pockets, deep libraries and multiple ways to reach consumers. They sent a signal to filmmakers that even if you're Martin Scorsese, you won't get the wide theatrical release you want through Netflix."

Following the model that worked for "Roma," the streaming giants decided to give a wider theatrical release to "The Irishman." Netflix was in negotiations with major theater chains such as AMC, Cineplex, and Regal but unfortunately, nothing could be worked out. "The Irishman" will now be opening in just eight theaters in New York and Los Angeles.

Written by Steven Zaillian and directed by Martin Scorsese, "The Irishman" is based on Frank Sheeran's memoir 'I Heard You Paint Houses'. 'The Irishman' is the story of an aging hitman Frank Sheeran (Robert De Niro) who recalls his possible involvement in the disappearance of labor leader Jimmy Hoffa (Al Pacino) and his involvement with the Buffalino crime family.

"The Irishman" will be available to stream on Netflix on November 27 this month.