When streaming platforms such as Netflix took the reins from physicalrental services like Blockbuster, the world breathed a sigh of relief over this new-found convenience. For just $8 a month, you were given unlimited access to an incredible library of movies and TV shows. In 2012, Netflix launched its first original series,Lilyhammer, which paved the way for critically acclaimed and star-studded shows likeHouse of CardsandOrange is the New Black. The success of these programs meant that the release of a new series on the platform was a much-discussed event. With a solid arsenal of original content and a broad selection of other properties, Netflix’s popularity was only on the up.
But what happens when other companies realize they could make more money from their productions by hosting them on their own streaming sites? What happens when each site constantly competes for the next best thing and prioritizes quantity over quality? Fans are forced to fork out subscription costs for five or more services if they want to keep up with their favorite shows, or they must choose which ones they’re willing to sacrifice.IndieWirereports that nearly half of U.S. consumers are frustrated with the streaming market. This moment’s instability impacts individuals at every stage of the production line — from those making the media, to employees within the streaming companies, to consumers. We are forced to wonder: how did we get here, and where do we go now?
What Made Netflix So Popular?
In 1997, Netflix began its life as a DVD rental company that would send your orders out by mail. As well as the ease of getting your rentals without leaving the house, it was also a popular choice because of its catalog. Netflix was able to acquire the rights to several popular movies and shows that were too old to be found in most video rental stores at low cost. As this was before streaming took off, production companies were happy to sell the rights for very little money since it was more than they would have earned with those properties just sitting on the shelf. Therefore, when Netflix turned its hand to online streaming, the site was already furnished with a catalog of fan-favorite content, featuring the likes ofTwin Peaks. Subscribing for $8 a month was a no-brainer.
Are There Too Many Streaming Services?
However, down the line, it isn’t such an easy decision to make. It’s clear that not everyone is willing to fork out money for all of these services. Netflix has been forced to restructure its pricing system, with the highest tier now costing $20 a month.HBO Max’s overhaulinvolved canceling shows in the middle of production and completely removing others from the platform without warning (viaCartoon Brew). The volatility displayed here perfectly encapsulates another issue with the current streaming landscape: artists and consumers are at the mercy of the whims of whoever happens to be in charge. It’s not fair to artists whose work is vanishing into thin air, and it’s not fair to consumers who are paying premiums to see specific content.
Related:Why HBO Max’s Degrassi Cancellation Isn’t Surprising
Can DVDs Make a Comeback?
Fortunately, we are not wholly powerless in this scenario. There is always the option to purchase physical copies of your favorite movies and TV shows. This really puts your money where your mouth is and no one can take them away at a moment’s notice — unless your friends are the type to never return a borrowed DVD.
Some might argue that DVDs are less accessible than streaming services in terms of cost.Two seasons ofEuphoriaon DVD cost $24, which is more expensive than a month of any streaming service. However, when you consider the ongoing payments of a streaming service in comparison with the one-off DVD purchase, things look a little different. Viewers invest hundreds of dollars a year into their subscriptions, sometimes with a few specific movies or shows in mind. But what happens when the service loses the rights to those properties? Your investments no longer hold their value.
There are drawbacks to this plan. If you’re looking at recent media, there’s no guarantee that there will be DVDs in existence. However, with the tides changing as they are, a renewed interest in physical media could prompt increased DVD production, so get to buying.
