Streaming services revitalize cinema, but do not destroy it

For my grandparents, it's a cinema, for my parents, it's the theatre, and for me, it's just the movies. These terms reflect not just a place, but a shared experience that has shaped understandings of storytelling and cultural immersion across generations. Despite claims that streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, Max and Amazon Prime Video are sounding the death knell for cinema, I'm drawn to a different perspective – I see these platforms as catalysts of development, not agents of decline.

Take Euphoria and Marriage Story, for example—two standout productions that illustrate the transformative potential of streaming platforms. With its bold cinematography and narrative experimentation under showrunner Sam Levinson, Euphoria challenges traditional storytelling norms. It features longer story arcs that delve deeper into character development, giving viewers a holistic view of the characters. I remember feeling simultaneous sympathy and dislike for the characters due to the well-developed plot.

Scarlet Johansson and Adam Driver's performances in Marriage Story similarly demonstrate the emotional depth and intimacy that streaming platforms can foster. I don't know how these actors could create a film that is simultaneously hilarious, poignant and frustrating. These aren't just movies; they're experiences that stick in the mind and spark conversations and reflections long after the screen goes dark.

Beyond individual successes, streaming services play a crucial role in diversifying the cinema offering. They provide a platform for stories that would otherwise find little audience in the competitive world of traditional cinemas. Just think of the docuseries that drew attention to topics not covered in movies: “Don't F**k with Cats,” “Conversations with a Killer: The Ted Bundy Tapes” and “Jeffrey Epstein: Filthy Rich.”

This democratization of access ensures that diverse narratives, from indie gems to international sensations, can thrive and find their audiences without being constrained by box office expectations. Additionally, streaming platforms serve as incubators for emerging filmmakers and voices, providing a supportive environment where creativity thrives, free from the pressures of traditional studio access control. This nurturing ecosystem encourages risk-taking and innovation, pushing the boundaries of what cinema can achieve. It's a space where new talent can flourish, enriching the artistic landscape with fresh perspectives and untold stories.

Critics of streaming often bemoan the decline in cinema attendance and box office revenue. While these concerns are valid, they overlook the broader cultural impact and audience participation that streaming services enable. Interactive features, behind-the-scenes content, and instant accessibility enhance the viewing experience, turning passive consumption into active participation. Streaming platforms foster a dynamic dialogue between creators and audiences and enrich the cultural discourse around film.

As I reflect on my cinematic journey, from childhood trips to the cinema to evenings spent streaming films at home, I realise that cinema is not dying – it is evolving. The rise of streaming services has expanded the canvas on which stories are told, inviting viewers into a world of unlimited possibilities. Whether in the darkened cinema hall or the comfort of the living room, cinema continues to captivate and inspire, connecting generations and cultures through the universal language of storytelling.

Streaming services are also redefining the notion of movie accessibility. No longer bound by scheduled showtimes or limited screenings, audiences now have the freedom to explore a vast library of content at their leisure. This accessibility expands the audience base and encourages the exploration of genres and styles that may have been overlooked in traditional theatrical releases. It allows viewers to create their own cinematic experiences.

The streaming era encourages filmmakers to experiment and take risks. With fewer financial hurdles and more creative freedom, directors and writers are encouraged to try out unconventional storytelling and filmmaking techniques. This creative freedom fosters innovation, pushes the boundaries of visual storytelling, and challenges audiences to engage with narratives in new and unexpected ways.

Despite these advances, the debate about streaming versus traditional cinema often revolves around the cinema experience. The communal aspect of watching a film in a theater, surrounded by other moviegoers, enveloped in larger-than-life images and immersed in collective reactions, is a unique and irreplaceable experience. But streaming services complement that experience rather than compete with it, offering alternatives for viewers who prefer the comfort and convenience of home viewing without diminishing its appeal.
of the cinematic spectacle.

In essence, cinema's evolution through streaming services is a testament to its resilience and adaptability. It thrives not by erasing the past, but by embracing new technologies and audience behaviors. As we move through this transformative era, one thing remains clear: cinema in all its forms continues to captivate and inspire, resonating with audiences around the world. The essence of cinema lies not in where it is seen, but in the power of the stories it tells and the emotions it evokes. Embrace evolution, celebrate diversity, and appreciate the magic of cinema in all its forms.