The Ups And Downs Of A Movie-Streaming Magnifico

Netflix, Inc. NFLX just renewed a second season for two of its original shows: "Last Chance U" and "Stranger Things."

"Last Chance U" details the life of college football players, and "Stranger Things" portrays the mystery of a missing boy through a science-fiction-meets-horror-film lens. Both renewals are a testament to each show’s success.

Series Success On The 'Flix

Other recent successful Netflix originals include "Fuller House," a spinoff of the ‘90s ABC Family classic "Full House," a show about widower Danny Tanner and his life juggling a broadcasting career and three girls, D.J., Michelle and Stephanie. Filled with humor, "Fuller House" highlights the life of grown-up D.J., now herself widowed, and her own struggles raising three sons.

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Written by "30 Rock" star Tina Fey and Robert Carlock, "The Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt" is a comedy about a girl starting over again in New York City after escaping a cult. Known for its quick-witted humor, the show debuted in 2015 and continues to attract a loyal following.

The popular political drama "House of Cards" is not a series short of twists and turns. Starring Kevin Spacey, the show will debut its fifth season in 2017 and has hooked a loyal viewership.

But even initial winners have experienced their share of losses.

It's Not Always A Ride To The Top

"Hemlock Grove," a horror film about the murder of a teenage girl, was able to hold on for just two years. Viewers thought "Hemlock" lacked the intrigue competitors like "True Blood" were able to deliver.

"Chelsea," starring Chelsea Handler, missed the mark as well. The late-night-type talk show lacks humor and too closely matches Chelsea’s previous show, "Chelsea Lately."

"Cooked" shows signs of a viewer deficit as well. This four-part series debuted earlier this year and is a documentary about the history of cooking and its effects on culture.

However, with an ever-updated catalogue of classics, newer releases, originals and exclusives, Netflix likely has enough breadth to keep its audience — and investor — appeal.

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