10 DEFYING FORMULAIC STRUCTURE

DOI: 10.4324/9781003041115-10

If you want to gain a better understanding of how much linear television (programmed in rigid timeslots, with commercial interruptions) has changed, look no further than WandaVision on Disney+:

  1. Varying episode length. From less than 30 minutes to over 40 minutes in the series finale. Varying episode length is now a common trend along with shorter season orders. There is no standard, predictive pattern or formula.
  2. Hybrid tone. The series shifts from quippy sitcom jokes into deeper, darker, existential territory, magic spells, and downright tragedy.
  3. Custom release pattern. Disney+ made the first two episodes available right out of the gate, followed by a week-to-week release ...

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