From Fortune:



In the last decade, Netflix soared in dominance in the streaming world, producing hit shows, gaining 240 million subscribers, and creating new Hollywood franchises. However, it has also sparked the downfall of traditional entertainment sources like Blockbuster and Hollywood studios. Cultural critic Peter Biskind detailed this in his new book, Pandora’s Box, which examines Netflix’s history and the impact of streaming on the entertainment industry. Biskind argues that the streaming business’s constant competition has led to a focus on shows that avoid offending, rather than those that take creative risks.

As more companies entered the streaming market, the shows they produced became more sanitized and took fewer creative risks, leading to the disappearance of anti-heroes, and the rise of comfort viewing like Ted Lasso. Additionally, tech companies like Amazon have used entertainment to spur their core businesses.

The book seems to argue that the past decade has changed the landscape of television and streaming in a way that has dimmed the creative spark that once defined the industry. It’s evolution may continue, but the fundamental value of creativity and freedom of expression has been sacrificed for the broadest audience appeal.



Read more: Peak TV is over as Netflix becomes ‘unwatchable,’ Peter Biskind says