In the world of professional wrestling, the WWE's iconic 'Raw' brand has been a staple for decades, but its journey onto the streaming giant Netflix has been a curious one. As we approach the two-year anniversary of 'WWE Raw' on Netflix, it's intriguing to delve into the reasons behind the platform's seemingly relaxed approach to expanding the show's archive.
The Missing Backlog
Despite the availability of every episode since its Netflix debut, the absence of older 'Raw' episodes, particularly from the 2000s and 2010s, is notable. This gap in the archive has sparked speculation, with industry insider Dave Meltzer suggesting that Netflix isn't rushing to fill it.
Netflix's Priorities
Meltzer's comments on 'Wrestling Observer Radio' shed light on Netflix's stance. He believes the streaming service isn't treating the 'Raw' backlog as a top priority, citing potential concerns over the show's past content that might not align with current standards. This raises an interesting question: In an era of increased sensitivity and awareness, how does a platform like Netflix navigate the challenges of presenting content from a different time?
A Glimpse into the Past
Currently, Netflix offers a glimpse into 'Raw's' history with episodes from 1993 to 2001, but the subsequent years are largely missing. This absence becomes more pronounced when we consider 'WWE SmackDown', where the vault is even more limited, with only a handful of episodes from the early 2000s.
The Impact of Changing Standards
One thing that immediately stands out is the potential impact of evolving societal norms and standards on content availability. Personally, I think it's fascinating how content that was once considered acceptable might now be seen as inappropriate, and this shift in perspective can have real-world implications for media accessibility.
A Broader Perspective
This situation with WWE's content on Netflix raises a deeper question about the preservation and presentation of historical media. In an age where we're increasingly conscious of the impact of media on society, how do we navigate the fine line between preserving history and adhering to current standards? It's a complex issue that requires a thoughtful approach.
Conclusion
The WWE's 'Raw' archive on Netflix serves as a fascinating case study, highlighting the challenges and considerations that come with presenting historical content in a modern context. It's a reminder that while we can't change the past, we can learn from it and adapt to ensure a more inclusive and sensitive future. As we await the potential expansion of the 'Raw' archive, one thing is certain: the story of WWE's journey onto Netflix is far from over.
