It’s intriguing how a film that dazzles at the box office might not repeat its success on streaming platforms. In fact, the opposite can often be true. Many movies that struggle in theaters spark enough curiosity that audiences are willing to check them out once they hit streaming services. What was once thought of as a box office disaster can transform into a streaming sensation over time.
Take, for example, the 2024 film Madame Web. According to Bloomberg, this Dakota Johnson-led Spider-Man spinoff was Sony Pictures’ most-streamed film on Netflix last year. It outperformed several of the studio’s biggest theatrical hits, including Venom: The Last Dance and It Ends With Us, each grossing around $145 million (approximately €138 million) domestically, while Madame Web lagged at only about $44 million (around €42 million). Compounding the irony, its Rotten Tomatoes rating sits at a mere 10%.
Almost immediately after its release, Madame Web garnered a cult following. The film gained notoriety on podcasts like How Did This Get Made which explored its perceived flaws. It turned its notorious reputation into a conversation starter, leading viewers to check it out when it became available on Netflix. This trend continued with another poorly received title, Kraven the Hunter, which also secured a spot in Sony’s top five streaming titles, despite making even less than Madame Web.
This phenomenon is part of a larger examination of how Sony can better monetize its streaming “bombs.” Currently, its deals with platforms like Netflix are tied to box office performance. However, it’s becoming apparent that films with lower box office numbers can potentially generate substantial streaming revenue—an opportunity that Sony may be overlooking. The full details can be read in a comprehensive article here.
What’s most fascinating is that Madame Web, despite being labeled a failure, can be quantified as a success through streaming metrics. Who could have predicted such a surprising turn in fortune? Well, perhaps Madame Web herself would have seen it coming.
What made Madame Web a surprise streaming success? The film’s bad reputation, with its notorious status and sheer curiosity sparked discussions and engagements that pulled audiences in.
How does streaming performance differ from box office numbers? Streaming platforms often gauge success through viewership over time, while box office performance reflects immediate financial returns. A film can resonate with audiences long after its theatrical run ends.
Why do some box office flops find success on streaming services? Films may attract viewers who enjoy unconventional or “so bad it’s good” movies. Word of mouth and social media buzz can also elevate their profiles in the streaming realm.
What trends are emerging in box office versus streaming performance? Increasingly, films that underperform in theaters are gaining cult status on streaming platforms. This shift suggests that audience preferences are evolving.
What can we learn from the streaming success of box office duds? Studios might need to rethink how they measure success and explore new business models that account for streaming viewership.
If you’ve enjoyed this look into how cinema’s fortunes can change in the digital landscape, consider diving deeper into related content. For more on the latest trends in entertainment, visit Moyens I/O for exciting updates.