Netflix. The rise of streaming platforms over the past decade has been nothing short of staggering, and shows little sign of slowing any time soon. As broadband speeds increased, the market for on-demand media in favor of live viewing and physical releases grew. Early digital models began with classic movies, TV box sets and catch-up reruns, but it was only a matter of time until the streaming world turned its focus onto original content.
Netflix was the first streaming service to seriously challenge the status quo and establish streaming as a viable distribution model for new releases, but a host of competitors have emerged since, with Amazon Prime chief among them.
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As an ever-growing number of studios and networks launch their own in-house streaming services, consumers have more choice than ever before, and the quality of original content becomes vital in choosing which platforms are worth the subscription fee.
Until now, Netflix has enjoyed a firm grasp on the streaming game, especially with regards to its original content. But rivals are inching closer all the time and, in recent years, Amazon Prime originals have started to attain the same cultural impact and rapturous response previously reserved for Netflix releases alone. Here's why Amazon Prime's original TV content is now rivaling Netflix.
Netflix's Original Content Was Once Unchallenged
The first true Netflix Original series, Dark Crystal for some of the most recent casualties. Where Netflix was once the point of refuge for unjustly-cancelled network favorites, the platform is now cutting the field with more gusto.
How Amazon Prime's Original TV Content Has Improved
Amazon waded into the streaming realm as early as 2006, but it wasn't until 2011 that their video service was wrapped into the Prime brand, and original content would start to emerge two years later, just as Netflix was dealing its House of Cards. Among the early crop of Amazon Originals, the likes of Stranger Things that fascinated the world and became a cultural phenomenon. But as Amazon Prime's original roster has expanded and diversified, the power balance in the streaming wars has started to level out.
Utopia. Part of the appeal behind streaming is the promise of a cinematic experience in the comfort of your own home, and Amazon can now claim to deliver that fully with the same blend of star power, interesting ideas and big-budget production that first put Netflix on top of the pile.
Another more recent change to Amazon Prime's original content is the diversity on offer. Previously, only Netflix could claim to have something for everyone, but Amazon's TV originals now include the supernatural humor of The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel.
Amazon Prime's Original TV Future Is Bright
Looking ahead, Amazon Prime looks set to continue sparring evenly with its big red rival. In an encouraging sign, the futures of most big-hitters have already been assured, with Jack Ryan and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel all lined up for new seasons. Although there have been cancellations, Amazon Prime has wisely avoided any controversial cuts, with Netflix still suffering backlash from GLOW fans. In the current streaming landscape, fans can arguably start a new Amazon Prime series with less trepidation than they might on Netflix, especially after the latest spate of cancellations.
Furthermore, Amazon Prime has a juicy selection of major projects in the pipeline, the most hotly-anticipated of which is undoubtedly the forthcoming Second Age Amazon Prime are well-positioned to continue their rise.
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