Time and again, people fall in love with a television show because of its likable characters, compelling plot, or its overall ability to serve as an escape from reality in their day. Popular shows may also have an immense impact on the general audience by illustrating an important theme in society or simply being the coolest new TV show on the must-watch list.
For the past several years, Netflix has dominated the world of video streaming media by creating some of the most emotionally charged, controversial, and captivating hit series of our generation. Netflix’s success comes from beating out the competition of other television streaming services by coming up with original series that they become the most publicized shows among worldwide viewers.
One key example of the entertainment company standing out from its competitors is the Netflix original series Stranger Things, which premiered in 2016. Set in Hawkins, Indiana, this thrilling series captures the distinct emotions that a mother whose youngest child was stolen by an unexplainable force would feel. This, along with the addition of many more inner plotlines to the show’s story, created a spectacle that took the world by storm.
The reason for Stranger Things‘ overwhelming success, is that the show takes basic human emotions and instincts ranging from love to protection, and builds a complex story based on these emotions. Another cause for the show’s immense popularity is its extremely lovable cast. In a recent interview with Tonight Show host Jimmy Fallon, the comedian went as far as to deem the kids of Stranger Things the best cast of any series currently on television, followed by a loud applause from his live studio audience. Additionally, a show is a success if it can produce a Hollywood star in its own right; though known actress Winona Ryder scored the role of Joyce Byers, the mother of the vanishing Will, Stranger Things‘ true break-out star is thirteen year old Millie Bobby Brown because of her sensational performance as the iconic and unforgettable character Eleven — a little girl who possesses strange powers and loves her eggos. Because of the show’s exceptional cast, outstandingly emotional acting, and uniquely captivating plot, viewers have the eager opportunity to entertain themselves by watching this addicting series, explaining why season two of Stranger Things has been one of television’s biggest headliners since early October.
Stranger Things is an excellent representation of why Netflix is dominating the streaming and television scenes—their shows consistently showcase outstandingly emotional acting and uniquely entertaining plots, and they are sure to leave viewers addicted and wanting more.
Aside from producing captivating and endearing original series, Netflix is also known for some of its controversial and more disturbing shows. One of these hit shows is the drama series 13 Reasons Why, which describes the complex story behind why high school student Hannah Baker decides to take her own life. The series’ first season goes into depth about the personal life of Hannah, including her exploited love life and sexual relationships. 13 Reasons Why has received a wave a backlash from parents and general audiences alike due to a supposedly inaccurate representation of how a school can help a struggling student when it comes to sexual assault. Whether or not one believes that 13 Reasons Why is an accurate representation of teen suicide, it cannot be argued that the show’s controversy contributed significantly to its success. Netflix was able to capitalize upon the media attention that the show received. The ability to stir controversy and cross certain lines has contributed to their recent success.
As a result of their highly popular shows, Netflix has far exceeded its competition of other video streaming media organizations. According to a 2014 report by Nielsen, roughly 36 percent of households in the United States have a Netflix subscription, whereas only 13 percent have Amazon Prime and 6.5 percent have Hulu. Even though video streaming services such as Amazon Prime have approximately 7,000 more titles to choose from, Netflix’s originals have had worldwide recognition, either as sensational or controversial, creating more interested in buying a subscription from Netflix.
Netflix has grown exponentially in popularity these last couple of years because of its array of addicting original series’ with superb acting and compelling plotlines. So, next time you find yourself binge-watching a show on Netflix, actually think about what is convincing you to complete one entire season all in one sitting.