Netflix’s Diego Ávalos shared insights on the streamer’s approach to sourcing, developing, and financing projects in Spain during a recent appearance at Málaga Talent. Ávalos, who serves as Netflix’s VP of Content for Spain, Portugal, and Turkey, emphasized the company’s desire to be viewed as accessible, flexible, and closely connected to the creative community it collaborates with.
In his presentation, Ávalos highlighted Netflix’s varied commissioning process, which includes multiple entry points for projects and diverse deal structures. He emphasized that the company’s strategy is driven more by audience connection than algorithms, signaling a focus on storytelling and creative vision.
What set Ávalos’ presentation apart was his engaging and approachable demeanor, which resonated with the room full of aspiring creators. By showcasing Netflix as a more open and personal platform, he aimed to dispel the notion of streamers as distant gatekeepers and instead position Netflix as a collaborative partner in the Spanish production sector.
Ávalos underscored that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to pitching projects to Netflix. Projects can take various forms, from a fully developed package to a simple idea, as long as they effectively communicate the story, creative vision, and audience potential. He cited examples like “Génesis” and “The Asunta Case” to illustrate the diversity of projects Netflix considers.
Moreover, Ávalos provided insights into the scale of Netflix’s Spanish pipeline, revealing that the company receives thousands of projects annually and works with a wide network of production companies. He emphasized Netflix’s willingness to engage with both established and emerging creators, highlighting the importance of connecting talent with suitable partners for project development.
Contrary to popular belief, Ávalos clarified that Netflix does not rely solely on algorithms for commissioning decisions but rather uses data as a guiding tool. He pointed out that while certain genres like comedies, thrillers, and dramas perform well in Spain, there is room for breakout hits that defy conventional genre boundaries.
Addressing concerns about ownership, Ávalos reassured the audience that Netflix respects the intellectual property of creators and producers, with the majority of Spanish titles being structured as acquisitions or partnership models. He emphasized that Netflix works alongside the independent sector rather than replacing it, with a focus on supporting the creative endeavors of third-party producers, writers, and directors.
In conclusion, Ávalos emphasized the importance of festivals as platforms for showcasing talent and discovering new voices in the industry. He highlighted Netflix’s role as a collaborative partner that values input from Spain’s creative landscape, positioning the company as more than just a buyer or commissioner, but as a listening and supportive ally in the evolving entertainment industry.
