Netflix eyes Bollywood, anime originals

Netflix is set to target international markets with Bollywood and anime original programming, according to the subscription VoD service’s CEO.

Hastings: heading to Bollywood

Reed Hastings said the US firm is looking to produce more original programmes for foreign markets as it looks to complete its global roll-out by the end of 2016.

“We’re hopeful that we’ll over time make a great Bollywood show, make a great anime show,” said Hastings in an onstage interview at the DealBook conference in the US.

Hastings highlighted the success of its recent internationally-focused series, Narcos, as an example of how the model works.

Last month, Netflix was reported to be continuing its Asian expansion with a launch in Cambodia. The company recently confirmed South Korea, Singapore, Hong Kong and Taiwan for early 2016, after making its debut in Japan in September.

The Netflix Japan service, where its original anime is expected to debut, rolled out with a selection of local TV series and films, as well as existing homegrown shows such as Marco Polo, Marvel’s Daredevil and Academy Award-nominated documentary Virunga.

Netflix is reportedly nearing launch in India with a raft of local content, including Bollywood programming.

Hastings said Netflix will spend US$5bn on original programming over the next year, as well as high-profile talent acquisitions and distribution rights to movies.