How Criterion turned its film archives into a streaming powerhouse
Briefly

The Criterion Channel distinguishes itself from mainstream streaming platforms by curating limited-time collections of films instead of offering an endless library. Rejecting algorithmic recommendations, every title is handpicked by a programmer, creating a unique experience for cinephiles. Aliza Ma, the platform's programming head, criticizes Netflix's model and finds that a more specific approach resonates better with audiences. This strategy has cultivated a loyal subscriber base willing to pay for a focused selection of culturally and artistically significant films, proving that quality over quantity can be rewarding in the streaming landscape.
The Criterion Channel rejects the infinite-content model, curating rotating collections of select films that appear for just a few months.
Aliza Ma, the Criterion Channel's head of programming, is offended by the Netflix model of curation, arguing it's absurd to think that past behavior indicates future taste.
The Criterion Channel's approach has earned it a loyal following among artistically curious cinephiles, creating a stable, low-churn subscriber base.
Ma believes that focusing on specific subjects or themes actually helps to engage viewers better than the broader approach.
Read at Fast Company
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