Being an OTT platform, Netflix is unlikely to support physical media. Ironically, the OTT giant started its journey as a DVD rental company, beginning its subscription service in 1999 and shifting to an online streaming service model in 2007. This transformation marked the emergence of Netflix as we know it today.
However, it now seems Netflix is trying to erase its roots.
OTT is gradually taking control of the entertainment industry, offering a cheaper alternative to theaters and a vast library of content. Additionally, the lack of physical form makes it cost-effective and more accessible.
More and more directors are now advocating for physical media because it eliminates certain hassles. Viewers won’t have to worry about the constant changes in content availability. However, this push towards physical media could negatively impact OTT streaming services. After its major shift, Netflix has been clear about its stance on this issue.
In an interview with Mike Flanagan, it became evident that Netflix won’t be promoting physical media anytime soon, not even as an alternative.
“In the years I worked at Netflix, I tried very hard to get them to release my work on Blu-ray & DVD. They refused at every turn. It became clear very fast that their only priority was subscriptions, & that they were actively hostile to the idea of physical media.”
“This is a very dangerous point of view. While companies like Netflix pride themselves on being disruptors and have proven that they can affect great change in the industry, they sometimes fail to see the difference between disruption and damage. As a result, they can find themselves, intentionally or not, doing enormous harm to the very concept of film preservation.”
Physical media is a tangible possession, and while Netflix might view it as a secondary option for their original content, the industry’s emphasis on numbers and subscriptions means physical media won’t be tracked in the same way. This could impair Netflix’s decision-making in show production.
In terms of preserving great art like film, online storage is one of the worst methods. However, it’s important to remember that Netflix is in business to make a profit, not to engage in charity. If they ever decide to focus on physical storage, it would certainly be a positive change for the industry.
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