After much anticipation, fans of Mike Flanagan’s Hush can finally own the thriller on physical media. This marks a significant turn from Flanagan’s previous attempts to get his work on Blu-ray and DVD while working with Netflix.
Flanagan’s Struggle with Netflix
During the ATX Festival, Flanagan opened up about his past efforts to release his projects on physical media while he was with Netflix. In the years I worked at Netflix, I tried very hard to get them to release my work on Blu-ray and DVD. They refused at every turn. It became clear very fast that their only priority was subs, and that they were actively hostile to the idea of physical media
, Flanagan told the audience during The Monologue Case Study panel.
A Push for Preservation
Flanagan has consistently emphasized the importance of physical media for film preservation. He mentioned that he felt Netflix’s stance potentially harms the concept of preserving films. This is a very dangerous point of view… they sometimes fail to see the difference between disruption and damage
, he added.
The Impactful Legacy of ‘Hush’
Released in 2016, Hush, co-written by Flanagan and Kate Siegel, features Siegel as Maddie, a deaf author living in isolation who must fend off a masked intruder. The film garnered praise for its unique tension-building techniques and Siegel’s performance.
Flanagan’s Post-Netflix Projects
Despite these challenges, Flanagan’s collaborations with Stephen King adaptations like Gerald’s Game and Doctor Sleep, and his planned reboot of King’s The Dark Tower, highlight his dedication to horror storytelling. He is also set to direct an upcoming Exorcist project following the lukewarm reception of The Exorcist: Believer.
A Broader Overview of Flanagan’s Work
Flanagan has gained recognition for his atmospheric horror series on Netflix, such as The Haunting of Hill House, The Haunting of Bly Manor, and Midnight Mass. His ability to evoke fear through meticulous storytelling sets him apart in the genre.
Looking Forward: ATX Festival Highlights
The ATX Festival continues to be a valuable platform for filmmakers like Flanagan to discuss their works and industry challenges. As fans eagerly await more details on upcoming releases, events like these offer significant insights into the evolving landscape of film and television.
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