Netflix Orders Sequel for Fantasy Buddy-Cop Movie ‘Bright’

Netflix recently debuted their most expensive movie project yet with ‘Bright’ starring Will Smith. The fantasy action movie with orcs and elves set in modern day Los Angeles cost the company over $100+ million to make.

Needless to say, there is a lot banking on its success. However, it seems that Netflix is very confident with their product that they actually green-lit a sequel a day before it even premiered on their platform. That is despite the critical evisceration it is receiving.

Critically Panned but Adored by Audiences

Bright’s RottenTomatoes score at the moment sits at 30% with over 64 professional reviews and 24% with top critics. The RottenTomatoes score represents the percentage of total reviews which are positive. However, the audience score sits at 89% with over 10,232 reviews. The large disparity between professional critics and audiences is the perfect example of Netflix’ confidence in their algorithmic programming.

Unlike big Hollywood production companies, Netflix knows exactly what their viewers want to see. The platform keeps track of viewing habits and green-lights projects that have the statistics to back it. As long as their movies are ‘formulaic’ in the way that is acceptable to their viewers, it is better than the ‘formulaic’ movies churned out by Hollywood.

Most of the critics point out how ‘Bright’ would have been a good movie to discuss racism and societal issues in depth, and cite its not trying to delve into those issues as a negative. However, there is only so much one can show in a feature length movie. Especially one set in a world as rich as ‘Bright’. Which is why the upcoming sequel will most likely going to be a hit with the audience as well.

Besides, it is not like Netflix did not release ‘Mudbound’ and ‘Mindhunter’ this year. Just two examples of a movie and a TV series from the platform which are have a 95% positive rating on RottenTomatoes.

Correction Note: The budget estimate is $100+ million USD. The £300 incorrectly attributed earlier is actually the budget for original Canadian Netflix content.