No one expected it since it’s not a premiere, but the movie ‘Infinite’, starring Mark Wahlberg, has achieved remarkable success on the streaming platform Netflix, currently reaching number 2 worldwide and becoming the most viewed in 27 countries. This science fiction film, which was originally scheduled for a theatrical release in 2021, was ultimately released directly for streaming due to concerns about the public’s reluctance to return to theaters during the pandemic.
There is always a need to give second chances
At the time, ‘Infinite’ was the subject of controversy and disappointment, as it received an overwhelming negative reception from critics, with a mere 17% positive ratings on Rotten Tomatoes. Many critics unfavorably compared it to the iconic ‘Matrix’ saga, which heightened the negative expectations regarding the project directed by Antoine Fuqua. The story follows Evan McCauley, a man diagnosed with schizophrenia who discovers abilities and memories from past lives, but finds himself on the brink of emotional collapse.
Despite the controversy and uproar surrounding its initial release, ‘Infinite’ has found a sort of rebirth on Netflix. The film had previously been on the platform, but its recent return has once again captured the public’s attention. This phenomenon highlights how older catalog content can be reactivated and generate renewed interest in the streaming realm.
Industry analysts are closely watching the performance of ‘Infinite’ in this new phase, raising questions about the possibility of other titles that failed to connect during their original release receiving a second chance in the streaming ecosystem. However, the uproar generated by its negative critical reception remains a shadow over its current success.