For 2026, Netflix is doubling down on original storytelling and comedies

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Instead of relying on sequels and remakes, Netflix plans to focus its 2026 movie strategy on creating new, original stories and bringing back theatrical comedies.

Netflix really wants to create its own shows and movies, which is why they tried so hard to buy Warner Bros. Even though Paramount won that deal recently, finding original content is still Netflix’s top goal.

At a recent event in Hollywood, Netflix film chairman Dan Lin explained that the company is intentionally taking a different approach than traditional movie studios.

Last year, most of the biggest movies – 18 out of the top 20 – were based on existing stories, like sequels or remakes. Only two original films, “Sinners” by Ryan Coogler and “Weapons” by Zach Cregger, managed to become hits. Both were popular with audiences and even won Oscars this year.

Lin explained that Netflix’s upcoming 2025 content will be very different from last year’s, with around half of their films featuring completely new, original stories.

Lin explained that they have plenty of money for content. This means they’re happy to either create new movies or buy the rights to existing ones if they find something really good.

According to Bela Bajaria, Netflix’s head of content, the company isn’t worried about matching other studios’ ability to release films in theaters. Netflix primarily focuses on streaming, so that’s where they prioritize finding and showcasing original stories.

Competition has always been a part of the landscape, and that hasn’t changed,” said Bajaria. “It’s important to be aware of what our competitors are doing, not ignore them. We need to understand the market and keep planning for the future.”

Netflix isn‘t only searching for completely new concepts; they’re also aiming to strengthen their offerings in specific genres. Comedies, in particular, have become less of a priority for traditional movie studios recently, creating an opportunity for streaming services like Netflix to grow in that area. This year, Netflix hopes to succeed with new comedies including Kevin Hart’s “72 Hours,” John Cena and Eric André’s “Little Brother,” and Eva Longoria’s “Fifth Wheel,” which is being described as a similar style to the movie ‘Bridesmaids.’

Hollywood Inc.

Look, as someone who’s been following this media merger madness, I have to say David Ellison, the head of Paramount, is clearly thrilled. He’s been after Warner Bros. for months, and now the Warner Bros. board has officially signed off on his offer, calling it the better deal. He’s saying it was a unanimous decision, which is pretty significant – it sounds like they really believe Paramount’s offer is the way forward.

Lin explained that they’re actively producing films to fill a gap in the market. They’re hoping to give audiences the kinds of movies they want to see – specifically genres that have become rare in cinemas. ‘We’re taking the chance and making these movies,’ Lin said, ‘because that’s what we believe people are craving.’

Besides focusing on comedies, there’s a great chance to create more movies for young adults, according to Lin. Netflix has several upcoming films, including “Voicemails for Isabelle” with Zoey Deutch and Nick Robinson, and “Roommates” starring Sadie Sandler, designed to attract a younger audience.

Netflix hasn’t had much luck with live musical adaptations, and according to Lin, the company isn’t planning to focus on them. Lin joined Netflix in 2024 and has approved the production of 88 films since then.

Hollywood Inc.

Netflix is expanding into artificial intelligence by acquiring InterPositive, a tech company founded by Ben Affleck.

Netflix data shows subscribers watch around seven movies each month. Because of this high viewership, Netflix is focusing on creating original content to keep its audience satisfied.

Netflix currently plans to release a few major movies—up to four—each year. For 2026, they’re hoping Greta Gerwig’s new take on “Narnia” and David Fincher’s next film, a sequel to “Once Upon a Time … in Hollywood,” will be particularly successful.

Gerwig shared that she’s working on a project she’s incredibly excited about, based on a book series she adored as a child. In a video message, she explained that she grew up reading and immersing herself in the world of Narnia, and feels honored to now be able to bring that universe to life. She described the opportunity as both joyful and a privilege.

I’m so excited for Greta Gerwig’s new film! It’s coming to IMAX theaters this Thanksgiving, and then we’ll all be able to enjoy it on Netflix starting Christmas – perfect timing for the holidays!

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2026-03-19 13:35