Why Netflix Is Betting Big on Latin America | The Circuit

With the streaming wars hotter than ever, Netflix is doubling down on its global ambitions. It’s a strategy that’s already reshaping the entertainment world, with series like Squid Game and Narcos becoming smash hits far beyond their countries of origin. In an era when entertainment companies are scrambling for dwindling revenues and attention, the future of the industry could depend on reaching a truly worldwide audience. The question is, can Netflix do it, and stay the king of streaming? Emily Chang travels to Colombia to visit one of Netflix’s most ambitious productions ever in Latin America, and gets a closer look at its global strategy with Vice President of Latin America Francisco Ramos and Chief Content Officer Bela Bajaria. With new series on the way such as One Hundred Years of Solitude (Colombia), Senna (Brazil), El Eternauta (Argentina), and Pedro Páramo (Mexico), Netflix's ambitions are setting up for a bold new future in Latin America - and beyond.

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[emilychangtv]

This was such an epic adventure! I’m so grateful to the people we met from Colombia to Mexico, and in awe of the talent on the set of 100 Years of Solitude. Are you excited to watch the real thing? I’d love to hear your thoughts on Netflix’s strategy to win Latin America.

[JAndrade]

Finally a Colombian story that has nothing to do with the Narcos BS that does not represent the majority of Colombians and causes so much harm to our country’s reputation and image

[malaudisa]

Great story, music, visuals, and interesting interviews. We have spent extended time visiting Mexico, Colombia, Chile, Argentina, and I'm so glad S.A. gets to be highlighted in a positive way because there is so much richness and warmth in their history, art, architecture, and tradition.

[dosgringoscroata]

As an expat living in Colombia, and having lived in certain rural zones in the "Eastern Plains", there is a huge possibility of stories to be told that isn't Narcos vs DEA. Hopefully this initiates a new wave that focuses on the rich and fascinating culture this country has.

[Atlasdearles_]

I was considering quit Netflix, but now I will wait to watch all those productions. As a Colombian, I have to recognize that they are making a huge effort.

[taopanda]

More stories about Latinoamerica and not about drugs and cartel war is CRUCIAL!
We are tired of these horrible stereotypes when there is so much to offer!

[naydeepolanco]

COLOMBIAAA! The most beautiful country I've ever visited, not just the land and climate but the people are truly amazing.

[ramlozz]

Another factor they missed to mention is that the Hispanic/ latino, community in the United States keeps growing, is already at 40% in California

[obando]

Thank you Emily and Bloomberg, this will make us Colombians very proud.

[sgroque]

La ventaja que tiene Netflix en nuestra región es que somos países muy parecidos y a pesar de nuestras pequeñas riñas especialmente en redes sociales, nos apoyamos los unos a los otros. El contenido mexicano gusta a un peruano, el colombiano a un panameño, y así con todos. Siempre teniendo en cuenta gustos específicos. Por ejemplo a mí series de el narc0 no me gustan (no me gusta esa temática), pero el resto de series de mi región me gustan mucho.

[MilipTichaelPhomas]

I love how this lady is never on the same wavelength with the people around her, or even with her own words

[bigbabygoose]

You guys are killing it lately! This video is so beautiful, informative, and full of heart. And without any of the sensationalization of usual social media pieces. So refreshing!

[jairunet]

Excellent idea, I agree with the locals here, Latin America has so much talent, they just need to be guided the correct way, they are humble and hard workers when the motivation is there. I can't wait for the next round of specials, football, baseball, women's beauty, nature, farming, and more and more, everybody wins, keep it up Netflix, I may join in some way or another in the short future.

[HKim]

The sneaky underreported Netflix strategy is overwhelming "youngish" directors will large sums of money to do their magnum opus. Film budgets are way smaller in other countries. Netflix will plunk down 2-3x a healthy film budget and let these directors do a long series.
The Squid Game guy got $15-20M to do his series. Dude had been thinking about that series for 10 years. And, the average film budget in Korea is <$5M. Never would have gotten the funding. Plus, Netflix doesn't interfere in the content or direction. They just worry about the budget.

[MsCatwoman]

Amazing work you're doing @emilychangtv! So proud of you. Colombia and Mexico run deep through our families veins. Can't wait to see how Gabriel García Márquez novel comes to life.

[MrSantiagotri]

I’m glad they’re finally showing the magic of this wonderful country, and not that bs from Narcos

[maryfranceschiloenoble]

The town looks like Disney Encanto . And it's true it's in Colombia 😊

[liothomasart]

Goddamn the color grading in this episode is so good! Lord Emily! Where am I?

[someyoutuber]

Storytelling in this is incredible. The map visuals, interviews, macro economic insights, etc.

[zaxlee]

Betting on Argentina is a great choice. The 2000s proved that Argentinian soap operas are very popular. I don't know why they faded off in the 2010s, but there is undoubtedly a ton of potential there, especially with teen shows made by Chris Morena. If I was netflix I would have that woman on a permanent contract just making one series after another.