Netflix bets big with 'The Electric State': A streaming milestone

Until now, Netflix's streaming platform has not produced anything that could match the scale of Hollywood films (as "Rebel Moon" turned out to be a disappointment). Top box office hits like "Edge of Tomorrow" or "Transformers: Rise of the Beasts" are so popular on the service.

The sixth, or if you count "Bumblebee," the seventh instalment in the ongoing battle between Autobots and Decepticons, ranks second on Netflix's list of hits in Poland. It trails only behind this year's biggest hit on the platform, "Security Check." "Transformers: Rise of the Beasts" cost approximately £160 million. Netflix spent around £255 million on a similar film!

This way, "The Electric State" became the most expensive film production in the history of streaming platforms and simultaneously one of the most expensive in film history (even the latest "Mission: Impossible" won't cost that much). So, where did all the money go? Of course, a significant portion was spent on actors, who can earn up to £40 million for roles in VOD productions (see: Dwayne Johnson – "Red One" for Prime Video). "The Electric State" boasts two big stars: cinema's Chris Pratt and Netflix's Millie Bobby Brown.

In the newly released trailer (previously, only a teaser was available), it's clear that the producers spared no expense on special effects and scenery. Perhaps this time, creating a film spectacle on par with Hollywood productions will be possible.

The project is helmed by the Russo brothers, who, perhaps enticed by the massive budget, decided to shift from their successful collaborations with Hollywood studios, like their work on Captain America and the Avengers, to creating movies and series for streaming platforms. Their latest venture is based on the graphic novel by Swedish artist Simon Stålenhag, known for his unique projects that blend retrofuturism and dystopia. The premiere of The Electric State is scheduled for 14 March 2025.