Local Production for Global Streamers: How Netflix Shapes European Production Cultures

Abstract

This article examines how Netflix’s increased production of local streaming content affects European television production practices. This inquiry is developed in critical dialogue with current research, primarily focused on the United States, which suggests that Netflix’s production practices largely correspond with legacy practices in the television industry. The question is whether this observation also applies to Europe. Addressing this, 14 semi-structured interviews were conducted with television and film industry workers based in the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, Denmark, and Spain. Emerging themes demonstrate that Netflix is reshaping production practices in these countries by importing a U.S. production model and influencing storytelling practices.