Netflix Head Of Film Leaving To Start Rival Media Company

Speculations about Stuber’s departure had been circulating for some time, fueled by rumors suggesting a misalignment in philosophy between him and the top executives at Netflix.

While Netflix has traditionally focused on creating premium content for streaming consumption, other streaming platforms have embraced a theatrical-first approach for big-budget films. Stuber’s career began with a more traditional model, and speculation assumes he is leaving the streaming giant to return his focus to theatrical releases.

Stuber, who has played a pivotal role in transforming Netflix’s film slate, will remain with the company to facilitate a smooth transition. Chief Content Officer Bela Bajaria will oversee operations until a permanent replacement is found.

Having roots at Universal and a background as a producer, Stuber is well-versed in the traditional waterfall platform, starting with theatrical releases.

It seems Stuber may prefer this model, while Netflix does not. It’s likely Stuber plans to launch a company that fits his preferred strategy, and rumor has it, he’s got the money to build his new business exactly the way he wants.

During his tenure at Netflix, Stuber oversaw the acquisition, development, or production of some of the streaming service’s biggest movies, including the studio’s most-watched movie of all time Red Notice, starring Dwayne Johnson, Ryan Reynolds, and Gal Gadot.

He was also in leadership during some of the streaming platform’s other blockbuster hits, including Sandra Bullock’s Bird Box, and critically acclaimed films like Benedict Cumberbatch’s The Power of the Dog and Robert De Niro’s The Irishman.

Stuber’s strong ties to the creative community and his extensive experience in producing commercially successful motion pictures have enabled Netflix to collaborate with top filmmakers, including Alfonso Cuarón, Spike Lee, Martin Scorsese, Greta Gerwig, Rian Johnson, and more.

Under Stuber’s leadership, Netflix became the most nominated studio at the Academy Awards for three consecutive years (2020-22).

However, Stuber’s lucky charm wasn’t quite strong enough to secure the studio with the most coveted win. Despite numerous nominations, Netflix has not yet bagged the Best Picture accolade. 

However, it’s possible, that could change before Stuber exits the company.

The chairman is set to leave Netflix in March, the same month that the streaming platform could very well be up for another chance at Best Picture with Bradley Cooper’s recent Leonard Bernstein biopic, Maestro. 

In a statement, Stuber expressed gratitude for the opportunity to join Netflix seven years ago and create a new home for original movies.

Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos praised Stuber for leading the new paradigm of how movies are made, distributed, and watched.

Bela Bajaria acknowledged Stuber’s achievements in creating a world-class film studio and expressed a desire to continue working together in the future.

Source: Deadline