Netflix to Make Less Movies and Focus on Quality

Netflix’s Shift Towards Quality Content: A Strategic Move.

In 2018, “Saturday Night Live” humorously depicted Netflix as an endless wellspring of content, perpetually offering fresh shows at the top of the menu. At that time, the streaming giant’s film division, led by Scott Stuber, prioritized quantity over quality. However, this approach led to a mixed bag of films, with hits like “Roma” alongside forgettable titles like “Thunder Force” and “The Last Thing He Wanted.”

Acknowledging the need for a recalibration, Netflix is now focusing on a more discerning strategy, aiming to back 25 to 30 films annually, as opposed to the previous 50. This shift has culminated in a diverse and impressive fall film lineup, ranging from comedies and thrillers to potential Oscar contenders.

The premiere of “Maestro,” a critically acclaimed portrayal of Leonard Bernstein’s intricate relationship with his wife, marks a pivotal moment in this evolution. Stuber emphasizes that this film epitomizes Netflix’s new approach: creating content they wholeheartedly believe in.

Recent releases like “Fair Play” and “Pain Hustlers” demonstrate this commitment to thought-provoking, high-quality cinema. With upcoming titles like “The Killer,” directed by David Fincher, and biopics like “Nyad” and “Rustin” produced by the Obamas’ Higher Ground, Netflix’s refined selection showcases their dedication to excellence.

Equally noteworthy are the projects Netflix has chosen to forgo or reevaluate. This includes passing on potentially lucrative ventures like “Masters of the Universe” and a high-budget rom-com, signaling a more measured approach to bidding wars.

Scott Stuber’s tenure at Netflix has been characterized by adaptability and creativity, seeking to compete with longstanding studios and franchises. Their upcoming galactic adventure, “Rebel Moon,” exemplifies their willingness to take bold risks, distinguishing them from traditional studios.

Netflix’s receptiveness to unconventional storytelling has fostered strong partnerships with luminaries like Zack Snyder, David Fincher, and the Obamas. Fincher, in particular, praises Netflix’s supportive environment for original ideas, contrasting with the risk-averse nature of many other studios.

Stuber’s astuteness in understanding filmmakers’ needs has earned him respect in the industry. His transparent communication style and respect for artists contribute to a productive and collaborative working relationship.

While Netflix continues to gain traction with original films, some critics question whether the streaming giant can create cultural touchstones akin to their TV successes. However, it’s important to note that even traditional theatrical releases struggle to achieve widespread cultural impact, suggesting that movies may inherently play a different role in popular culture.

Netflix’s ability to be more selective in their content is partly due to shifts in competitors’ business models. As other companies return to licensing their content to various platforms, Netflix maintains a consistent stream of popular licensed movies while focusing on producing quality originals.

Looking ahead, Netflix is poised to capitalize on a new wave of projects, from Greta Gerwig’s Narnia adaptation to Adam McKay’s serial-killer comedy. Stuber expresses excitement about the potential for expansive, engaging entertainment.

In adapting to changes in the streaming landscape, Stuber emphasizes the importance of maintaining quality over speed. While Netflix has the capacity to produce content rapidly, they recognize that haste can compromise the end result. The company remains committed to their core mission: attracting and retaining subscribers through exceptional content.