Though it never did numbers on par with something like “Stranger Things” or “Wednesday,” David Fincher’s serial killer drama, “Mindhunter,” has a devoted fanbase. Even today, years after the first two seasons were released, people are spreading the good word about “Mindhunter.” However, despite that fanbase and a good amount of critical acclaim, “Mindhunter” was never renewed for Season 3. And according to David Fincher, fans can give up hope that Season 3 is ever going to happen. But he’s okay with that. 
Speaking to the French publication, Le Journal du Dimanche, David Fincher talked about his relationship with Netflix and why he understands the streamer’s decision to not continue with “Mindhunter” Season 3. The filmmaker understands that the show, while maintaining high quality, just didn’t draw the necessary viewership to continue. 
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“I’m very proud of the first two seasons,” Fincher explained (via translation). “But it’s a particularly expensive show and, in the eyes of Netflix, we haven’t attracted a large enough audience to justify such an investment.”
He continued, “I don’t blame them, they took risks to launch the series, gave me the means to do as I dreamed ‘Mank,’ and they allowed me to venture on new paths with ‘The Killer’ [his upcoming action thriller]. It’s a chance to be able to work with people capable of audacity. The day when our desires will no longer be the same, we will have to be honest to separate.”
Of course, one of the unspoken consequences of a long-term deal with Netflix, such as the one Fincher enjoys, is the fact that the films created will primarily be seen either on a TV at home or on a mobile device. The filmmaker understands this issue, and instead of having a major issue with it, has come to terms with the new reality of a streaming-led Hollywood.
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“More and more people are equipping themselves with large screens at home,” he explained. “Nothing will ever replace the unique experience of a moment of cinema in the dark and certain stories absolutely must be seen in these conditions. This is not the case with ‘The Killer.’ While I don’t particularly like the idea of ​​watching movies on a smartphone, I can’t do anything to prevent this new mode of consumption. I admit I often watch it myself on my iPad…”
So, it’s clear that Fincher still supports the idea of exclusive theatrical runs for films, but he’s also well aware that the new reality doesn’t necessarily support that. Plus, he’s not wrong saying that people have incredible setups at home now. Big, 4K TVs are commonplace, as are sound systems that provide a pretty solid experience. And obviously, there’s no denying there are still people who will watch a film on a smartphone, but those are probably the type of people who aren’t rushing out to the cinema anyway. So, at least they’re consuming quality entertainment, right?
“The Killer” is expected to arrive on Netflix on November 10. “Mindhunter” is available now.