Netflix viewers watched a variety of content in recent weeks, according to the company’s latest viewership statistics. While highly anticipated shows and movies found major audiences, other titles that received more mixed reviews also emerged as unexpected successes. The data highlights how factors beyond critical reception influence what viewers select.
The action movie “Rebel Ridge” topped the film charts for two consecutive weeks. It attracted 68 million hours of streaming in its first week and 31.2 million in its second. Critics praised Aaron Pierre’s performance in the “thriller that has maintained its top position.” In television, “The Perfect Couple” miniseries accrued 103 million viewing hours after its debut. Starring Nicole Kidman, Liev Schreiber and Dakota Fanning, the show based on Elin Hilderbrand’s novel continued drawing 20.3 million over its opening weekend from September 5 to 8.
Another title generating major viewership was Lee Daniels’ horror movie “The Deliverance.” Despite lukewarm 33% Rotten Tomatoes scores from critics and audiences, it captured 41 million hours its first week. Viewership grew 50% the next week to 21.8 million hours, cementing it as the second most watched English-language film. Industry insiders suggest its star-filled cast including Glenn Close, Andra Day and Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor contributed to the popularity. Its release during the beginning of horror season may have also played a role.
Some lesser known works found audiences as well. The romantic comedy “Aloha” with four million views proved fans will watch titles critics consider unremarkable. In non-English programming, “(Un)lucky Sisters” took the top spot with 4.2 million views its second week.
The data highlights audiences’ complex tastes. While acclaimed content like “Rebel Ridge” and “The Perfect Couple” performed strongly, less favorably reviewed movies like “The Deliverance” showed that factors beyond reviews such as stars, genre and timing affect viewership. Viewers select from a variety of options on streaming platforms.
