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Streaming Erases Cult Classics From History
13 Jul
Summary
- Streaming platforms can remove projects to claim tax losses.
- This practice risks preventing new cult films from gaining traction.
- The streaming era may end the possibility of future cult classics.
The streaming era has introduced a troubling practice where studios can effectively vanish films and series by declaring them tax losses. This removes projects from any potential physical or digital release, making them inaccessible to audiences outside of their initial streaming run.
This trend particularly endangers the future of cult films. Without the chance for a project to find a dedicated following over time, as seen with past successes like 'Blade Runner' and 'Heathers,' new cult classics may never emerge. The current streaming model, which has largely replaced rental markets, creates a bleak outlook for these foundational pieces of cinema.
Experts suggest this could lead to a future devoid of new cult classics. The inability for underperforming projects to gain a second life means the organic growth of a fanbase, crucial for cult status, is now impossible. This could result in a more sanitized and less diverse entertainment landscape.
