The leading online video streaming service may soon start streaming its own TV shows, according to sources that say Netflix is currently in talks with David Fincher and Kevin Spacey about the idea.
According to Deadline.com, Netflix has been working on a series called House of Cards, a political drama, that would be filmed for online streaming through its service, which has millions of monthly subscribers.
Netflix wouldn’t hold the exclusive rights to the show, however. The producers would still be able to distribute it through traditional TV channels or on DVD and Blu-ray, but the deal would mean Netflix gets exclusive access to episodes first, before they’re available anywhere else.
It adds a new level to the battle against traditional cable and satellite providers. Netflix has gained a lot of traction, but it is still a wholly different market than other media outlets. Most TV shows and movies come out not only long after they are originally aired, but also well after they’re released through pay-per-view and DVD first.
Netflix is always playing catch-up when it comes to getting content. This move would be a complete reversal of the current process.
Of course, it’s just one TV show and not likely to make much of a dent, but if it proves to be a success, other TV executives are sure to take note.
