Amid a plethora of shows facing the axe on Netflix, there is one that appears to have found a unique formula to secure its future – Penelope. This young-adult drama showcases Megan Stott from Little Fires Everywhere as a 16-year-old girl who embarks on a wilderness survival journey, distancing herself from her previous life. The intriguing storyline, blending coming-of-age elements with survival drama, garnered attention at the Sundance festival and led Netflix to acquire the US distribution rights for the first season comprising eight episodes.
A Revolutionary Distribution Strategy
Unlike the conventional approach of securing funding from streaming giants, the creators of Penelope opted for an indie film-making strategy. They independently produced the entire series and subsequently struck a deal with Netflix for distribution. This unique arrangement ensures that the show’s destiny does not solely rely on Netflix’s decision for future seasons. Co-creator Mark Duplass highlighted the unconventional development process, emphasizing the creative freedom and flexibility it offered in crafting deals and narratives.
By adopting a “piece by piece” model, the creators can diversify streaming rights across different platforms globally. This decentralized approach alleviates the pressure of appeasing a single platform to ensure the show’s continuity. Retaining the rights outside the US provides autonomy in exploring alternative avenues for production and distribution, safeguarding against abrupt cancellations.
Looking ahead, the creators envision a scenario where Penelope‘s performance on Netflix would dictate the scale of subsequent seasons. Whether it attains monumental success or resonates well with audiences, the creators retain control over the show’s trajectory, avoiding compromises for broader market appeal. This newfound model of creative autonomy has paved the way for future projects under Duplass’ studio, signaling a potential shift in the traditional streaming landscape.
Anticipated to stream on Netflix US soon, Penelope stands out as a promising addition to the platform’s lineup, leaving viewers eager to witness its innovative narrative unfold. Its unconventional journey from conception to distribution not only showcases resilience but also sets a precedent for shows to navigate the volatile terrain of streaming services with confidence.
