NetFlix has taken the first steps towards becoming content independent, creating its very own original content, starting with the mob drama Lilyhammer. All eight episodes are now available for streaming on Netflix – so if you’re the type that loves to “marathon” series, now is your chance. Lilyhammer:
Frank Tagliano (Steven Van Zandt), is a former member of the New York mob. After testifying in a trial in the United States, Tagliano is relocated to Lillehammer in Norway through the FBI’s witness protection program. Frank Tagliano was intrigued by Lillehammer when he saw television images of the Winter Olympics in 1994, and therefore chooses to start his new life there. The transition from being a feared and respected gangster in New York, to become an unemployed immigrant in Norway, is not simple. Frank discovers that to get up and in the Norwegian rural society, he must resort to the old, ruthless methods.
According to TheVerge (by way of Netflix), Lilyhammer is watched by 1.2 million viewers/per week – the highest number for any TV series in Norwegian history. Let’s hope this is just the beginning – becoming content independent will allow Netflix to grow and will allow them more freedom from Hollywood’s archaic mindset.
