The New Social Event
This exponential increase in television watching has had tremendous influence on social activities worldwide. The image that one visualizes when they hear of a "social event" has evolved.With its long-tail inventory of TV shows and movies, commercial-free viewing experience, and “post play” seamless episode delivery, Netflix is changing viewers’ expectations concerning what, how, and when they watch TV. As a result, viewers not surprisingly are watching more television, including in larger doses at a time.
-Sidneyeve Matrix, "The Netflix Effect: Teens, Binge Watching, and On-Demand Digital Media Trends"
Prior to Netflix becoming mainstream, it was common for couples to go out and see a film at a movie theater as a first date. It was common to see families setting up picnics at the local YMCA. It was common to hear middle schoolers playing football after school in the neighborhood park. These activities have had a major decrease in popularity ever since Netflix came into the picture.
Teens are asking themselves why they would drive to a movie theatre to watch a film with their boyfriend/girlfriend when they can watch almost any film at the comfort of their own home? Parents are asking why they should take their family to the park for a picnic when they can easily gather around the smart TV and put on a Netflix show while having dinner? Children are asking why would they play football outside with friends from school when they can all watch a whole season of Blue Mountain State in someone's living room?
These are the questions that have led Netflix to become one of America's favorite things to do when sharing company with other people. It has altered the image of a typical date, family meal, and hangout.
