Watching TV in the modern era has shifted with the rise of binge culture and streaming platforms, therefore affecting how we consume TV and the traditional values it contributes to British homes. This has contributed to dying cinema and a changing TV landscape as, for most of the younger generations, the idea of bingeing a new series all in one go is far more exciting than sitting down and watching a live TV channel or waiting weekly for new episodes to drop. Thus begs the question – has traditional television really died a tragic death in the grip of modernity?
The first most notable example of shifting dynamics of media consumption is binge-watching culture, which involves consuming multiple episodes of a TV series in one sitting. Streaming services are easily accessed, and this has transformed how audiences engage with television, leading to shifts in programming strategies, viewer habits and the competitive landscape among content creators. It further affects how shows are made and marketed along with how viewers engage and obsess over characters for a short period of time.
Streaming platforms such as Netflix, which initially released entire seasons of shows at once, have been started to combat the weighing demand for constant fresh, quality, content by releasing popular shows as split seasons with two parts within a few months of each other. Netflix originally split seasons due to Hollywood Strikes, but this arguably tackles half the problem of binge watching as it breaks the viewing into parts, slows consumption and generates more social media interest. However, many viewers have argued that it ultimately kills the momentum of watching a show as by the time the next batch of episodes are released, they have forgotten or lost interest in the plot.
In the last few months, Netflix has dropped shows such as Outer Banks, Emily in Paris and Bridgerton which have seen viewers finish episodes in one sitting. As soon as these shows are released, people can watch them anytime and anywhere from any device. This acts as a form of escapism as engaging with and finishing these stories triggers the release of dopamine (the hormone associated with pleasure) to create an addictive experience. Many people will pause their busy schedules to binge-watch a new programme and keep clicking ‘Next Episode’ until they no longer can. Furthermore, watching TV or movies as a family activity has become less and less frequent due the abundance of devices people now have access to.
As streaming services continue to flourish in the entertainment landscape, the once thriving cinematic experience is starting to nosedive. Fundamentally, people would rather spend their money on streaming services, such as Netflix and Disney+, which accesses unlimited amounts of series and films than pay for a one time viewing cinema ticket. Originally, the cinema was a way to unite people and became a communal activity to watch compelling stories, but the rise of streaming platforms and people’s falling expendable income means that watching at home is becoming much more appealing.
Words by Lily Morey
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