Netflix
The world's largest subscription streaming service with 260+ million subscribers and major original content production.
Definition
Netflix is the world's largest subscription video streaming service, with over 260 million paid subscribers across 190+ countries. What began as a DVD-by-mail service has transformed into a dominant content producer, investing over $17 billion annually in original films, series, documentaries, and stand-up specials.
Netflix has reshaped entertainment consumption, popularizing binge-watching and directly challenging theatrical release models. The platform's algorithm-driven recommendations and personalization have set industry standards for viewer engagement.
Why It Matters
Netflix's content investment makes it a major buyer of independent films, documentaries, and international productions. Their acquisition decisions at festivals like Sundance, Toronto, and Cannes can make or break film financing models.
For content creators, Netflix represents both opportunity and disruption - offering global reach and substantial budgets while changing theatrical economics and ownership expectations.
Examples in Practice
Netflix's acquisition of films like Roma and The Irishman for reported $20-50 million budgets demonstrated willingness to fund prestige projects that might struggle in theatrical-only models.
The platform's series like Stranger Things and Squid Game have achieved cultural phenomenon status, demonstrating streaming's ability to create shared cultural moments.
Netflix's ad-supported tier launch in 2022 created new advertising opportunities within premium content environments.