Filmmaker Brillante Mendoza doesn’t have a huge following in the United States, just yet. While foreign film fans are definitely familiar with the highly prolific, award-winning director, Mendoza’s films haven’t had huge releases in the U.S. But it looks the latest project from the Filipino director will get a release all around the world. However, just not in theaters.
Netflix recently announced that “Amo,” a twelve-part miniseries, would be released worldwide through their streaming service. The series tells the story of the controversies surrounding the Phillipine National Police and the government’s campaign against drugs, with each episode focusing on a different character.
“The great thing about this new development is that we can now expand our audience for Filipino movies and TV series,” Mendoza said in a recent interview with the Inquirer. “Foreign viewers will get acquainted with our stories and culture on a different platform—beyond the film festival circuit.”
It’s not just Mendoza who is excited about the deal. Robert Roy, an executive over at Netflix, described the series as a “bold and suspenseful show that has the potential of capturing thrill-seeking viewers worldwide.”
The Netflix exec also said, “We are always seeking to work with passionate, talented storytellers like Mendoza, to bring premium content to Netflix’s 117 million members around the world.”
The filmmaker is also excited for another reason. It’s not just that his new series will have the potential to be seen worldwide, but also because this marks the first deal he has with a streaming service. And according to Mendoza, online streaming isn’t just great for TV, but also potentially his future films.
“People’s viewing habits and practices are changing fast,” the director explained. “They are no longer limited to theater and television screens. They watch films when, where and how they want…whether on their laptops, mobile phones or other gadgets. Now, viewers’ convenience is key.”
“Amo” is scheduled to be released worldwide by Netflix on April 9.