2011 was not exactly a banner year for Netflix. The company suffered the loss of video content from its streaming library, subscriber outrage after a failed attempt to spin its DVD rental business into a separate company called Qwikster, and a mass exodus of customers after a significant price hike. Hoping to turn things around in 2012, the site is now launching its first foray into original programming with three new series. Later this year, we'll see the premiere of Kevin Spacey and David Fincher's drama House of Cards, and the revival of Arrested Development. But first comes Lilyhammer, a crime comedy set in Norway's former Winter Olympics headquarters, starring The Soprano's Steven Van Zandt. A trailer for the show was released Tuesday (watch it below), and on Feb. 6, Netflix will post all eight of the series' first-season episodes online. Will Netflix's gamble pay off?
Lilyhammer shows promise: This is a make-or-break venture for Netflix, says Rachel King at ZD Net. The company desperately needs "a few hit projects in 2012," and it will have to rely on its own original programming for that success, particularly if it "loses any more studio partnerships." Lilyhammer has the potential to be a unique concoction: "In Plain Sight meets Hart of Dixie meets Northern Exposure." That's so crazy it just might work.
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