Movistar plus+ snags sony series slate, signals streaming arms race
Madrid—Movistar Plus+ is escalating its streaming war with a significant acquisition of six Sony Pictures Television series, a move that underscores the intensifying battle for premium content in the Spanish market. The deal, announced this week, brings a wave of internationally acclaimed projects exclusively to Movistar Plus+ subscribers, bolstering its offering against rivals like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video.
A 'lord of the flies' revival and beyond
Among the acquisitions, Lord of the Flies stands out, having generated considerable buzz on the festival circuit, most notably at the Berlinale. This reimagining of William Golding’s classic allegorical novel, exploring the descent into savagery of a group of stranded schoolboys, promises a darker, more nuanced take on the source material, helmed by showrunner Jack Thorne (Sex Education).
But the series slate doesn't stop there. Movistar Plus+ is also securing exclusive rights to American Hostage, starring Jon Hamm (Mad Men, Servant) as a radio journalist thrust into a life-or-death situation when a hostage-taker demands an interview. Giovanni Ribisi (Alien: Resurrection) takes on the unsettling role of the captor, adding further intrigue to this 1970s-set thriller. The acquisition strategy signifies a keen eye for high-caliber talent and gripping narratives.
A galaxy of stars and genres
The slate extends to include Up to No Good, featuring Glenn Close (a three-time Emmy winner and frequent Oscar nominee) as a ruthless assassin, and The Lady, a biographical miniseries starring Natalie Dormer (Game of Thrones), chronicling the true story of Jane Andrews, a royal employee convicted of murder. Further enriching the lineup are The Other Sister Bennet, a fresh adaptation of a novel connected to Jane Austen’s world, and The Miniature Wife, a darkly comedic drama with a premise echoing Honey, I Shrunk the Kids.
The financial details of the deal remain undisclosed, but industry analysts suggest it represents a substantial investment for Movistar Plus+, reflecting the platform’s commitment to attracting and retaining subscribers. Subscription packages currently start at €9.99 per month, and an annual offer brings the cost down to €99.90, while a youth cultural bonus offers an even more appealing rate at €39.00.
This aggressive content push positions Movistar Plus+ to capitalize on the growing demand for premium streaming Entertainment in Spain and beyond. The question now isn't whether they can compete, but whether other platforms will respond with similar, costly maneuvers. The streaming wars are far from over.