UlasanAnime.com – Netflix has officially entered the anime simulcast arena, a move that marks a significant shift in their content acquisition strategy. Previously, Netflix relied on local distributors and licensees for its anime offerings in North America. This new approach, however, suggests a more direct involvement, potentially bypassing traditional licensing routes.
Several key aspects of this new venture are noteworthy. Firstly, the streaming service is aiming for a global release, with plans to localize the anime into various regional languages. While English dubs are confirmed for the UK, US, and Canada, details regarding other non-English speaking regions, such as Mexico, South America, and the rest of Europe, remain scarce.
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Secondly, the phrasing of the announcement implies that the entire series will be available in Summer 2014. This deviates from the typical simulcast model, where episodes are released weekly. Instead, it appears Netflix is adopting a “simul-marathon-cast” approach, catering to viewers who prefer to binge-watch entire seasons. This strategy aligns more closely with Netflix’s established consumption patterns for its original programming, where viewers often opt to consume content in large chunks.
The choice of anime, Knights of Sidonia, is also interesting. While the manga is reportedly well-received, the anime’s production by a 3DCG studio might alienate traditional anime viewers who are accustomed to hand-drawn animation. This could impact the word-of-mouth buzz that typically surrounds a simulcast, especially if the show’s visual style is a significant departure from the norm.
The timing of the release also raises questions about its marketing impact. Releasing the entire series after its Japanese broadcast concludes means that the show misses out on the sustained promotional momentum that a weekly simulcast generates over several months. If the anime underperforms in Japan, Netflix might find itself with a product that lacks significant pre-release hype and audience interest.
Furthermore, the implications for home video distribution and future availability are unclear. While Netflix could potentially handle home video rights, it’s also possible that the series will eventually be licensed to other platforms for physical release and wider on-demand access, perhaps mirroring the staggered release strategy seen with other Netflix original programming, which often becomes available on various platforms a year or so after their initial debut.
The pricing model for this new anime offering also remains a mystery. Given Netflix’s subscription-based model, it’s likely that the anime will be included as part of the existing subscription, but the specifics of how this impacts the overall value proposition for anime fans are yet to be determined.
A tangential, yet relevant, consideration is the recent investment by the Chernin Group in Crunchyroll. This development could potentially influence the broader anime streaming landscape and Netflix’s strategic decisions within it.
Ultimately, the true success of this new initiative hinges on the quality of Knights of Sidonia itself. Until the series proves its worth, this new streaming model and its implications remain largely speculative. The article suggests a revisit of the topic once the anime’s reception becomes clearer.
