Netflix: The Monkey's Paw of Modern Cinema

In the past decade, Netflix has become an unexpected supporter of the film industry. Yet, it acts like a double-edged sword for directors: granting ambitious visions while imposing unforeseen costs. Financially, it enables the production of projects that traditional Hollywood might reject due to their scale or niche appeal. However, these films often end up in a form of digital obscurity. While they may attract viewers and critical praise, they rarely remain part of the broader cinematic conversation for long.

Granting the Wish

Love it or hate it, Netflixs influence on filmmaking is undeniable. Since entering original film production, the platform has secured over 150 Academy Award nominations spanning features, shorts, animated works, and documentaries. By 2025, 73 Netflix Originals had been Oscar-nominated, a number expected to grow with the 2026 nominations.

The diversity of nominations is remarkable and continues to expand. Netflix led the 2025 Oscars with 18 nominations, more than any other studio. Films such as All Quiet On The Western Front (2021), Roma (2018), and The Power of the Dog (2021) exemplify Netflixs commitment to projects unlikely to find support elsewhere, including international films and modestly-budgeted adult dramas.

A Platform for Arthouse Cinema

Netflix has provided a home for mid-budget arthouse films that might once have had traditional theatrical runs. In todays blockbuster-dominated landscape, these films benefit from wider access through streaming, reaching audiences who otherwise might never see them.

The Hidden Cost

Despite their reach, these films often lack a theatrical presence. Some receive limited releases, and recent exceptions include the Knives Out sequels or Greta Gerwigs upcoming adaptation of the Narnia series, but most remain confined to Netflixs digital ecosystem. Physical media releases are rare, meaning a films availability is tied to an ongoing subscription. Even acclaimed titles struggle to maintain public visibility, as the platform prioritizes a continuous flow of new content over long-term cultural impact. This results in last years award contenders fading quickly from memory despite high viewership.

Netflixs Paradox

The platform seeks recognition as a major studio, backed by awards campaigns and high-profile nominations. Yet, the need to constantly feed the algorithm and attract subscribers often overshadows the longevity of individual films, which can be eclipsed by viral trends and new releases.

A Mixed Legacy

Netflix plays a dual role. It has revived storytelling forms neglected by mainstream studios, supporting international cinema, documentaries, subtle dramas, and experimental genres. It also allows viewers easy access to these films. Yet, most titles have a short cultural shelf life. Only occasional projects, like 2025s KPop Demon Hunters or the Knives Out series, achieve lasting public attention. For the majority, once the initial excitement and awards buzz pass, they become fleeting entries in Netflixs vast catalog, rarely sparking conversation or long-term recognition.

Ultimately, Netflix grants filmmakers the resources to realize their visions, but at the cost of potentially losing their films in a sea of content, where even remarkable works may vanish from public memory almost as quickly as they arrive.

Author: Benjamin Carter