Are Indie Docs Hot Again? At Least for Netflix

Writer Anthony Kaufman discusses the dynamics of the nonfiction market at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival, particularly focusing on the notable trend of Netflix acquiring multiple documentaries. Despite the streaming giant’s strong interest in documentary content, Kaufman expresses uncertainty about the impact on theatrical distribution. Questioning the role of celebrity endorsements in documentary success and raises concerns about the crisis in distribution, Kaufman emphasizes that streaming platforms like Netflix may prioritize documentaries as content filler and awards bait, potentially affecting their theatrical viewership.