Television networks and production companies could learn a thing or two from Netflix according to Kevin Spacey. During a recent chat at the Edinburgh International Television Festival, the actor said Netflix has demonstrated they have learned the lesson that the music industry didn't - give people what they want, when they want it, in the form they want it in at a reasonable price and they'll more than likely pay for it rather than pirate it.
The division between traditional film, television and other programming is becoming less apparent as each day passes. As an example, Spacey suggested a movie is no less than a "film" just because a user watches it at home rather than in a movie theater. Any way you slice it, it's all still content - a story designed to entertain an audience.
Spacey is somewhat of an authority on the matter as his Netflix original series House of Cards was groundbreaking for a number of reasons. Not only was it one of Netflix's first big budget shows, the first season was also released with all episodes available on the same day.
This model successfully demonstrated that the audience wants control and freedom over when and where they watch, Spacey noted. If a paying subscriber wishes to binge as many have done with the show, then the industry should allow that to happen.
House of Cards went on to earn nine Emmy nominations this year including best drama. A second season with 13 episodes is already in production.