Netflix is very interested in launching more original comedies, and is thinking about westerns and more horror shows as well.
The Hollywood Reporter has an extensive interview with Cindy Holland, the company’s head of original content. Asked about what genres Netflix would still like to try, she told the publication:
Comedies of varying types are an area of extreme interest to us. We haven’t seen the perfect Western project yet, either. Although Hemlock covers horror and supernatural to some extent, there are several subgenres within those categories that we haven’t reached into yet and would look to explore if the right project came along.
As far as comedy goes, Wet Hot American Summer appears to still be in the cards, based on the interview. They’re also still ready for another season of Arrested Development whenever creator Mitch Hurwitz is.
It’s also noted in the piece that Hemlock Grove drew more visitors than even House of Cards, so it’s quite understandable why they’d want to explore more horror opportunities. Personally I’m keeping my fingers crossed for the Friday the 13th series that’s in development. Creator Sean Cunningham has mentioned Netflix in the past as a possible destination of interest. They seem like a perfect match to me. Netflix likes shows with built-in audiences that like to binge. I think USA Up All Night has proven hat people will watch back to back Friday films even when they’re watered down for television.
“I don’t think any genres are off-limits to us,” Holland said at one point, specifically in response to questions about interest in Chelsea Handler for a late night show (which the company just officially announced). Asked about live events, Holland reiterated a point the company has made in the past in that on-demand will continue to be the focus.
Some other interesting takeaways from the interview: Orange is the New Black is still Netflix’s biggest show; there is surprisingly little overlap in viewership among Netflix originals; and Netflix wanted True Detective and Fargo, but lost out to HBO and FX respectively.
Hemlock Grove: Season 2 is next up on the schedule, premiering July 11th. Here’s a new behind-the-scenes look at that.
Image via YouTube
