Netflix: Divided Between Fans And Algorithms

Recently, Brian Helgeland revealed that he approached Netflix with a project regarding the sequel to “A Knight’s Tale.” Netflix, however, denied the proposition. Was this a good call? Let’s take a good look at the statistics. The movie released in 2001 was based on Geoffrey Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales. Starring Heath Ledger and Paul Bettany, the movie received mixed reviews from critics. With a 59% score on rotten tomatoes, it looks like Netflix made the right call by putting the idea down. Or is it?

Recently, the streaming platform has been accused of being very inconsistent in this matter. Which shows are discontinued and which ones get a follow-up, Netflix is and always has been quite moody. Whether it be canceling fan favorites like 1899, Lockwood & Co., or producing sequels for subpar projects like Rebel Moon, all of it seems to be regulated by an algorithm.

Much to the disdain of fans, the use of this algorithm comes off as a necessity for a huge company like Netflix. Perhaps the algorithm is the reason behind its wide popularity, providing users with a personalized experience and, at the same time, giving the platform enough data about what the user base wants to see.

Given the above arguments, the decision can be seen in a divided light. While one end serves the fan who just wants the return of their favorite movie, there is a huge platform like Netflix that needs to fill its coffers.