Summary
Netflix's decision to cut back on animated projects and downsize its animation department is a concerning trend for the future of animation on the platform.
Arcane's success, evidenced by its four Emmys and high ratings on IMDb and Rotten Tomatoes, demonstrates the value of animation and highlights Netflix's potential to further prioritize it. If Arcane season 2 upholds the same level of quality and achievement as the initial season, it could convince Netflix that animation remains a worthwhile investment and potentially usher in a renaissance of exceptional animated shows on the platform.
Netflix's reduction of animated projects has cast a gloomy outlook on the future of animation on the platform; however, Arcane season 2 has the potential to overturn these expectations. The confirmation that Netflix was halting production on two animated films and downsizing their staff in the department adds to the ongoing downsizing trend seen during the summer of 2022. While Netflix has had successful animated endeavors in the past, they have always been given less priority compared to their live-action shows. Arcane's upcoming second season has the opportunity to prove the platform wrong and emphasize the value of animation.
Scheduled for release in late 2024, Arcane season 2 could dissuade Netflix from further downsizing their animation department. With frequent price increases and the impact of the SAG-AFTRA strikes, streaming platforms are desperate for a prosperous future. Earning back the trust of viewers while maintaining their audience is crucial for Netflix after recent events, and top-quality shows like Arcane will play a vital role in securing their position at the forefront of the streaming industry. While animation may not currently be one of their main priorities, the success of Arcane season 2 has the potential to alter this stance.
Arcane Is One Of Netflix's Best Performing Shows
Despite Netflix's lack of confidence in recent animated projects, Arcane stands out as one of their most successful shows. It has garnered four Emmys, showcasing its high caliber among critics. Additionally, Arcane's Emmy win marked Netflix's first victory in the animated category at the prestigious award ceremony. It is not only beloved by critics but also by audiences, as evidenced by its impressive IMDb score of 9.0, making it one of the highest-rated original series on Netflix. Furthermore, the show boasts an outstanding 96% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes. In fact, when it was initially released, Arcane managed to dethrone Squid Game as Netflix's top show, further highlighting its immense popularity.
Although the series is based on an already popular intellectual property (IP), it has managed to captivate more than just League of Legends fans. The impressive quality of the show is undoubtedly the key to its success, earning it numerous awards and proving to Netflix the value of animated content. Given all that Arcane has accomplished, it comes as no surprise that a second season has been greenlit. If the show can maintain its exceptional quality, it will undoubtedly cement its status as one of Netflix's greatest contributions. While the streaming platform has ventured into various genres and shows to find success, it may have overlooked the immense potential of animation given the right opportunities.
Another Successful Season Would Prove Animation Is Still Worth Netflix's Investment
If Arcane maintains the same level of magic as its first season, it will demonstrate to Netflix the value of investing in animation. The conclusion of Arcane's first season sets the stage perfectly for another season, as there are still many unresolved plotlines. The foundation laid in season 1 presents an ideal opportunity to continue this story and replicate the previous success. If season 2 matches the quality of its predecessor, it would solidify this series as one of Netflix's finest and force the platform to acknowledge the genre.
While animated projects can be risky, Netflix has proven their ability to excel in this domain and should not abandon it. Scaling back this department would signal a negative outlook for their future, especially considering the success of shows like Arcane, Bojack Horseman, and The Midnight Gospel. Animated movies have thrived at the box office, and the anticipation for Invincible season 2 further demonstrates the demand for such content. Failing to capitalize on this market would be a significant mistake for Netflix. There is still a glimmer of hope that Netflix will return to producing exceptional animated shows, and Arcane season 2 has the potential to initiate this resurgence.
Sources: IMDb, Rotten Tomatoes
