Since Netflix first began its worldwide expansion in 2016, the streaming service has rewritten the playbook for global entertainment – from TV to film, and soon, to video games.
Global hit series and movies were once nearly all made in Hollywood and exported internationally. Now, thanks to Netflix’s investments in international TV and film, programming from Spain, India, Brazil, and Korea is finding massive audiences around the world.
Netflix figured out that to thrive on an international stage it needed both mass-market programming like “Stranger Things,” as well as local content like “Lupin,” “Money Heist,” and “Sacred Games” that could grab viewers in specific markets.
The strategy helped the streaming service grow its customer base to 209 million paid subscribers globally, as of June.
Its momentum is also reinvigorating production in places like Germany, Mexico, and India, as companies like Disney, WarnerMedia, Apple, Amazon follow Netflix’s lead.
Netflix has reoriented its leadership around its new global model.
