Netflix as the New Television Screen

Abstract

Netflix leads the world in streaming entertainment. In fact, Netflix investors state there are currently over 167 million paid Netflix memberships. This chapter introduces some of the changes Netflix has made to traditional television practices by releasing entire seasons at once, promoting binge-watching, and using algorithms to understand and impact viewers. Using Schitt$ Creek as a case study, it examines the way algorithmic culture engages with streaming television while investigating the progressive aspects of selected episodes in the television series. Drawing on Blake Hallinan and Ted Striphas, David Beer, Noah Tsika, and Bridget Kies, the chapter examines the logical components of algorithms connected to serial television on Netflix. On March 10, 2015, the “Honeymoon” episode aired as part of season one of Schitt$ Creek. In this episode, David and Stevie wake up in bed together and later have a conversation using wine as an analogy for their sexuality.