Newsletter
The battle of the streaming companies is one which looks set to continue for the foreseeable future. While companies like Amazon and Hulu are finding it difficult to battle what seems to be a rising number of Netflix users and increasing number of hours viewed, the companies have started to look to other means to offer more unique content. In particular, one area where all the streaming companies seem communally interested in, is pursuing original film and TV content.
Last week saw the Sundance Film Festival taking place and known for its ability to bring to the forefront Indie and lesser known titles, it is a prime event for major companies to pick up a few new titles to add to their portfolio. A move both Netflix and Amazon have been noted taking advantage of over the last few weeks, with no less than a dozen movies being picked up between them. While Hulu has yet to make any firm acquisitions of original movie content (either at Sundance or in general), this is exactly what Hulu is now being rumored to be interested in doing going forward. According to reports emerging today and “two people with knowledge of the matter“, Hulu is very much intent on joining Netflix and Amazon in buying and distributing original content. According to the details, Hulu will also look to bring the content to theaters, as well as to their streaming network. A move which will likely be one of the factors filmmakers will take into consideration when deciding whether or not to go with Hulu. Although, it is being thought that Hulu is unsure of whether they will go for a universal release (theater and streaming) at the same time.
Whether Hulu does process with the adoption of more original content, this is certainly further indication that the streaming company is looking to try and find new ways to improve its user base and also identify itself more within the market. It was only a few months ago, when other reports emerged that Hulu is looking to take advantage of the growing interest in virtual reality. Again, highlighting the company’s ambitions going forward.