this post was submitted on 23 May 2025
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Television
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So it's a puff piece but basically people don't choose Amazon streaming. Which makes sense since it's the worst of the streaming services.
Basically most of their users are probably Amazon Prime users and they failed to convince those users, who are already paying for the service, that it was worth using. So in an accident to recoup costs they added ads. Which of course further pushes users away. Now they're going to sell their shows to other networks (18 months later), because Amazon streaming isn't bringing in new users.
For what it's worth Amazon seems like they'll keep throwing money at the problem. And that money can result in great shows being made. They're hoping for their water cooler must see show moment... But their brand just doesn't work.
Spot on.
Not to mention, they're syndicating shows that have all of the budget allocated to visual "dazzle," and almost nothing for the quality of writing/plot. Which means even if people watch once, they're not going to return to watch again and again.
Amazon refuses to understand, or is incapable of understanding, that stories and developed characters are what drive human engagement, not flashy visuals. A well-written show of stick figures could out perform most of their dreck.
And that's why I at least appreciate that they're willing to throw money at things. Rings of Power would have been cancelled after season 1 on most services, maybe a 2nd season, but certainly cancelled after that. But Amazon? They're in it.
Plus they can throw money at the right projects. Fallout was excellent. The Boys and the spinoffs Gen V was solid. Invincible is one of their best shows.
They've also been funding the more niche Vox Machina. They've been able to get big talent like Donald Glover and for Mr & Mrs Smith, while also keeping Phoebe Waller-Bridge around, paying her just to see what she comes up with.
Also they're not slowing down. They've paid a shit ton to get the rights to James Bond. They're funding a Warhammer 40K TV series.
They are throwing money at this until it works. It's a big dartboard and they have a lot of darts. They're going to hit a few big points.
But... They're going to miss a lot too.