The Spielberg v Netflix Debate: Understanding the Concerns and Opportunities for Cinema
Recently, the legendary director Steven Spielberg lashed out at Netflix for its promotion of a streaming service, stirring up a heated debate in the entertainment world. This article aims to provide a balanced perspective on the controversy, examining where Spielberg is coming from and the broader implications for the film industry.
Steven Spielberg's Historical Perspective
Director Steven Spielberg, with four decades of experience in the film industry, has witnessed the evolution of cinema from its early days to the current era of streaming. Since his debut in 1968 with Amblin, Spielberg has produced a series of iconic films, including E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, Back to the Future, Jurassic Park, and Schindler's List. His insights into the film-making process and the importance of theatrical release have been shaped by his deep understanding of the business and the art form.
For Spielberg, the theatre is more than just a place for entertainment; it is a sacred institution for the visual medium. In an interview, he stated: “I don’t believe that films that are just given token qualifications in a couple of theaters for less than a week should qualify for the Academy Award nomination.”
Theatre and Streaming: No Conflicting Paths
Spielberg's concern about the legitimacy of theatrical releases in the age of streaming cannot be dismissed lightly. However, it is crucial to note that the theatre business remains resilient despite the rise of streaming platforms. Research from Ernt and Young's Quantitative Economics and Statistics group indicates that frequent theatre-goers also consume the most streaming content. This data suggests that the two mediums coexist rather than compete for the same audience.
Besides, the convenience of on-demand viewing does not diminish the appreciation for the cinematic experience. As Spielberg rightly points out, certain films are best experienced on the big screen, where the narrative can be fully appreciated in its intended format. The theatre provides a communal and immersive environment that cannot be replicated at home.
A Level Playing Field for All
It is essential to understand that the streaming platforms and traditional theatrical experiences serve different purposes. Rather than a zero-sum game, they offer unique advantages to both filmmakers and audiences. Streaming services allow smaller talent to gain exposure and reach a global audience, overcoming geographical and economic barriers. Meanwhile, the theatre ensures a dedicated space for high-quality films to be appreciated in their full form.
As more major studios enter the streaming landscape, it is inevitable that content will become more distributed. For instance, Disney, HBO, and others are already launching their own streaming services. This trend suggests that the future of cinema will be a collaboration between theatrical and digital platforms. Netflix, in particular, realizes the need to invest heavily in original content to remain competitive. This includes partnering with India's finest storytellers for a new series of 10 original films in 2019.
The Future of Cinema
The Spielberg v Netflix debate is a reflection of the evolving movie industry. The theatrical experience and the streaming medium are not mutually exclusive. Ultimately, the choice of medium should be left to the audience, who ultimately decide which films they want to watch and how they want to watch them. By recognizing the value of both platforms, we can preserve the richness and diversity of cinema for generations to come.
Conclusion
Cinema is cinema, no matter where it comes from or who makes it. While the industry undergoes changes, the essence of storytelling remains the same. By respecting the rights of filmmakers and providing a level playing field for all forms of distribution, the evolving landscape of cinema can continue to thrive.
Footnotes
Netflix Isn’t Killing Movie Theaters Study Shows - A study by Ernt and Young's Quantitative Economics and Statistics group.
NETFLIX PARTNERS WITH INDIA’S FINEST STORYTELLERS ON 10 NEW ORIGINAL FILMS - Netflix's investment in India's film industry.
The Spielberg v Netflix row spotlights a movie industry in flux - Peter Bradshaw's perspective on the changes in the film industry.