Netflix to Remove Bandersnatch, Marking End of Interactive Films

LOS GATOS, California — Netflix is set to remove its groundbreaking interactive film, “Bandersnatch,” along with the interactive special “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt: Kimmy vs. the Reverend,” from its catalog on May 12, 2025. This decision marks the end of Netflix’s interactive content era as the streaming platform shifts its focus toward gaming.

First released in December 2018, “Bandersnatch” was a part of the popular anthology series “Black Mirror”. In the film, viewers navigate multiple storylines through choices made by a young programmer, played by Fionn Whitehead. The film allows for over five hours of narrative, creating a unique experience that blurred the lines between watching and controlling the storyline.

A Netflix spokesperson commented on the removal, stating that the interactive technology served its purpose but is limiting as they pursue technological advancements in new areas like gaming.

Netflix has expanded its gaming portfolio since 2021, adding over 120 mobile video games to its offerings. The streaming service has shifted its strategy, indicating that fully interactive games are considered more beneficial for user engagement compared to previous interactive films.

<p"Bandersnatch," which has won two Emmy Awards, remains an important piece of Netflix's content history, especially following the release of Season 7 of "Black Mirror," which includes an episode titled "Plaything" that references characters and elements from the film. This timing has raised questions among fans about the removal of the film and its connections to the continuing narrative of the series.

As Netflix continues to develop its gaming platform, the removals of both interactive titles signify a significant change in its approach to content. The future of interactive films on the platform remains uncertain as Netflix does not currently plan to retain any interactive features in its evolving structure.