How a streaming-first drama sparked a revolution in film distribution and awards history

Cultures · Published 29 September 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Alfonso Cuarón’s semi-autobiographical masterpiece Roma transformed the landscape of modern cinema. Beyond its critical acclaim and intimate portrayal of 1970s Mexico City, the film became a lightning rod for industry debates regarding streaming platforms, theatrical exclusivity, and the evolving definition of what constitutes a major motion picture.

Directed, written, and produced by Alfonso Cuarón, Roma is a deeply personal exploration of his upbringing in the Colonia Roma neighborhood of Mexico City. Set between 1970 and 1971, the film follows Cleo, an indigenous Mixtec housekeeper navigating personal tragedy and the political turbulence of the Corpus Christi massacre. Cuarón’s commitment to authenticity led him to shoot on location and cast Yalitza Aparicio, who had no prior acting experience, to play the lead role. The film was captured in color but finalized in black and white to evoke a sense of looking into the past.

The film’s release strategy ignited intense controversy within the industry. Because Netflix, which acquired the distribution rights, refused to adhere to the traditional 90-day theatrical window, major chains like AMC and Regal refused to screen it. This friction culminated in debates over the film's eligibility for the Academy Awards, with figures like Steven Spielberg expressing disapproval of streaming-first projects competing for top honors. Despite this, Roma secured ten nominations at the 91st Academy Awards, winning Best Foreign Language Film, Best Director, and Best Cinematography.

Beyond the awards circuit, Roma’s impact on film culture remains significant. It was the first Netflix original to be added to The Criterion Collection, a rare move for the streaming giant. The film’s promotional campaign was equally unprecedented, costing between $25 million and $50 million, and included sending expensive coffee table books to voters. Years after its 2018 premiere, it continues to appear on lists of the best films of the 21st century, cementing its status as a pivotal work that bridged the gap between traditional prestige cinema and the digital streaming era.

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