The emergence of streaming services raises the same old concerns: Are European cinemas going out of business? What does TV’s future hold?
Undoubtedly, the video-streaming entertainment sector has transformed the entertainment industry by drastically altering how we watch TV series and films.
The number of people watching films at theatres and waiting for shows in front of TVs has drastically decreased as a result of popular streaming services like Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, and Hulu making entertainment more accessible than ever.
The streaming market is expected to continue growing in the upcoming years, with 85% of American households already having at least one subscription to a video streaming service. The predicted expansion may, however, slow in areas outside of North America and Europe where prices are noticeably high, even though no drop is predicted.
Consequently, even if the industry’s continuous growth levels off or decelerates, the influence of streaming services on the entertainment sector will likely remain a prominent topic of discussion for years to come.
Now that video streaming has become more popular, let’s examine how TV and movies have changed over time and examine why people choose to watch TV shows and movies on their phones, laptops, or TVs via streaming service apps.
The Impact of Streaming Services on the European Cinema: Reasons and Mechanisms of Change
Streaming services have revolutionized the conventional television paradigm through substantial investments in original content creation. Netflix, notably, has led the charge with globally recognized and critically acclaimed series like Stranger Things, Emily in Paris, House of Cards, Black Mirror, and more.
With its captivating shows and user-friendly interface encouraging binge-watching, Netflix has enticed viewers into becoming “addicted” to this new form of television. Many other streaming platforms have followed suit since the 2010s, further solidifying this trend.
These platforms now hold more power than traditional media did before. With the aid of AI algorithms, viewers now have access to a far wider variety of content, all of which is customized to individual preferences.
Factors Influencing the Future of TV
Worldwide Reach and Diversity
When it comes to worldwide access and diversified material, streaming services have completely blown doors off. Their reach goes beyond national boundaries, showcasing incredible performances from across the globe.
European films, including acclaimed films from countries like France, Italy, and the UK, has also found a significant platform on streaming services. Additionally, globally renowned series such as La Casa de Papel from Spain, the captivating Dark from Germany, and the compelling Narcos from Colombia, have become enormous hits and successes.
Not just in their native countries but all throughout the world, these shows have become enormous hits and successes. Additionally, we can now study different cultures and discover a whole new universe of narratives with streaming platforms.
Personalization
As everyone can see, streaming services have completely changed the game by providing us with the content we want to see. Say goodbye to being forced to watch whatever is on at any given time. Our own viewing habits are now the basis for our customized recommendations.
Therefore, when we keep our Netflix account private from friends and family, it’s like we have a TV buddy who knows us better than we know ourselves.
Disrupting the Conventional Broadcasting Model
Remember the days when rushing home or interrupting tasks was necessary to catch our favorite shows at specific times? Those seem like a long time ago.
We can now watch our favorite shows whenever it’s convenient for us. We have complete control over the viewing experience because we can pause, resume, rewatch episodes as needed, and even binge-watch entire seasons in one amazing sitting.
Accepting Specialised and Diverse Content
Diverse and unique content that might not have found a home on traditional networks is now welcomed on streaming services. They have up the banner for them and provided a voice to narratives that are frequently ignored.
As a result, platforms for streaming video have emerged as hubs for unique and creative storytelling, eschewing the formulaic approaches of traditional television.
They have made room for marginalized groups and distinctive viewpoints to flourish. For example, one of the queerest teen shows ever is Sex Education, an original Netflix series.
Are European Cinemas Dying?
Despite constant forecasts of its demise, theatre is still strong today and is growing again due to stand-up performances. The same narrative may or may not be appropriate for the movie business, but European cinemas? We don’t think so.
This shift could potentially undermine the existing practices of nepotism in the European film industry, offering a more merit-based landscape for upcoming artists.
Distribution and Availability
With their direct-to-consumer business model, streaming services have completely changed the way that films are distributed. The days of filmmakers showcasing their work only through mainstream releases are long gone.
Video streaming platforms have risen as dominant figures in acquiring and distributing independent films, providing smaller and niche productions with opportunities to thrive.
Even the most modest streaming services, those exclusively centered on independent European cinema, have succeeded in cultivating brand recognition to varying degrees. For instance, MUBI is recognized by 24% of the UK population.
In summary, filmmakers now enjoy the flexibility to authentically express themselves without the limitations imposed by mainstream expectations, provided that streaming platforms avoid behaving like traditional television giants.
This artistic liberty fosters the production of remarkable films that connect with audiences on a profound level. Examples of this phenomenon include Netflix’s “Roma” and Amazon Studios’ “Manchester by the Sea,” both of which garnered critical acclaim and earned Academy Awards.
Data-Based Decision Making
Streaming services are experts at using data analytics to determine what kind of content users want to see. Their primary objective is to make well-informed decisions by analyzing consumer behavior and preferences.
They can therefore choose content that appeals to the audience and encourages them to return time and time again. Filmmakers stand to gain greatly from this as well as the video streaming services.
Final Takeaway
The European entertainment industry has experienced a revolutionary shift due to the emergence of streaming services. Streaming platforms like Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and others have revolutionized the way we engage with entertainment content.
In fact, they have even altered the terminology from “watching films and series” to “consuming content,” which could be a topic for further discussion. These platforms have profoundly disrupted traditional models, offering viewers increased choice, flexibility, and personalization in their viewing experiences.
The entertainment industry, particularly the world of European cinema, has seen tremendous diversification due to the rise of original content and the support of streaming platforms for independent filmmakers.
The industry’s future looks really bright, with a multitude of interesting and engaging content for viewers worldwide, including a focus on European film, as long as these platforms continue to develop and break new ground.
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