Binge Television (Netflix) vs Weekly Uploads (HBO Max)

In the past decade, streaming services have gained a massive amount of popularity. Two

of the most popular are Netflix and HBO Max. Both are known for their variety of amusing tv

entertainment, but more specifically, for their way of releasing their TV shows. For many, the

popular option of Netflix is now combatted by HBO Max.

On one side we have Netflix, predominantly known for starting the popularization of

binge-watching, coined that because people watched episodes “one after the other.” On the other

hand, HBO Max went with a contrasting approach which consisted of weekly episode releases.

With two very different methods comes a great amount of success with some downsides.

According to Insider, the CEO of Netflix, Reed Hastings, felt an “inefficiency” in the

TV market. Starting as a movie-focused service, Netflix shifted more towards TV when

customer results weren’t going their way. This led to their success in watching a television programs in a rapid progression, more commonly known as “binge-watching.”

In contrast to Hastings, HBO Max’s, Kevin Reilly, HBO Max follows a weekly release

pattern for a reason. Weekly episode releases produce weekly discussions all over social media

by fans.

Furthermore, creating long-lasting hype and publicity for their programs.

When it comes to Netflix’s favored shows, a big part of their popularity has been gained

due to their binge worthiness. ‘Money Heist and ‘13 Reasons Why’ are some, but the biggest

is ‘Stranger Things.’ Netflix’s Stranger Things soon to release its fourth season, has been

named as ‘Best show to binge-watch,’ by Ranker.com. It has become an international success as

fans not only seem to love the show but the ability to watch as many episodes of the 80s

centered series as they desire. Netflix’s successful strategy has gotten viewers hooked to their

devices and that doesn’t seem to change any time soon.

Although binge-watching is highly favored, it may have its cons. When binge-watching,

viewers’ risks of getting addicted are high. They may lose track of time and forget all about their

responsibilities as they’re glued to their screens, momentarily putting their life on hold until

they’ve completed the series. Due to this, another downside is created. Since the option of

watching all episodes in a short amount of time is there, the joy viewers feel may die fast, as

most shows have an average of 8-10 episodes that can be consumed within just hours.

On the other hand, HBO Max has captured TV lovers with a distinct approach. Their fans

seem to love the weekly releases of content since it provides them with enough time to participate

in discussions about their favorite characters and crazy fan theories. This seems to be the case for

HBO Max’s, Euphoria, crowned ‘most-watched HBO Max show’ and most ‘tweeted-about-

the show,’ according to Variety. With Euphoria and other HBO Max show being released weekly,

it gives fans something to look forward to every week, making the thrill of watching their

favorite show last longer, and an increasing hype which is great for the creators.

However, as fulfilling as getting to truly capture every episode each week may seem, fans

can also find the interlude frustrating. Time may move slowly when all the viewers want to

do is find out what happened to the beloved main character or the cliffhanger of last week’s

episode. Because of this, fans may favor the satisfaction produced by binge-watching.

Regardless of which streaming service stands in the first place, their success has built the

a platform for current and future streaming services to come.