Well, it's shaping up to be a monumental week for Netflix, one of the most significant in its storied history. The reason? The long-anticipated return of its all-time most popular English-language series, "Wednesday," after an extended hiatus of three years. Amazingly, it has taken this extended period to craft just another eight episodes. The highly anticipated premiere drops this Wednesday, August 6, but that's merely the prelude to the unfolding narrative.
We find ourselves in an unfortunate predicament, as Netflix has once again resorted to an exasperating practice. While the first season was graciously presented in its entirety, season 2 of "Wednesday" is being dissected into two separate four-episode installments, with a month-long gap between them.
Mark your calendars:
- "Wednesday" Season 2, Part 1 premieres on Wednesday, August 6.
- "Wednesday" Season 2, Part 2 follows on Wednesday, September 3.
Why does Netflix persist in this frustrating pattern? Typically, the initial season of a show is offered wholeheartedly to hook viewers, but if it becomes a smash hit, subsequent seasons are then divided in two. Not an ironclad rule, but more often than not, and "Wednesday" falls prey to this trend. Though it could be worse; think "Stranger Things" Season 5, sliced into three parts, with two premiering on Christmas Day and New Year's Eve. Presumptuous much, Netflix?
The rationale behind this strategy is Netflix's calculated gamble to potentially endure a drop in viewership during the enforced month-long wait, yet strategically keeping subscribers hooked for two consecutive months rather than a quick in-and-out binge-watch followed by immediate cancellation. It might even prompt viewers to resubscribe, contemplating, "What the hey, I might as well commit to a year." Clearly, it's all about economics, not creativity. Moreover, this approach is somewhat cumbersome, as it necessitates crafting a mid-season cliffhanger to entice viewers back, so prepare for a heart-stopping finale in episode 4.
