I can't say about Apple (though they really haven't made a start), but Amazon already have some really good stuff. American Gods, Preacher, now The Expanse, and I'm really enjoying Patriot.
Of those that you listed only Patriot is produced by Amazon. American Gods comes from Starz, Preacher is from AMC and The Expanse comes from the SyFy channel.
Ah true, they're just billed as Amazon Originals in the UK. I think The Expanse is going to be Amazon all the way down from season 4, though.
Patriot is definitely underrated. Especially for anyone who loved the dark humor in Lock Stock or In Bruges.
In Bruges is a fantastic comparison for Patriot. Thanks for that, I've been looking for a good point of reference.
I usually just tell people, "If you're comfortable at laughing when everyone in the scene is sad and there's no laugh track, this might be a good show for you."
Well Apple is going to have Oprah to start with. I think they are making clear that their shows will not have anything edgy. They will be looking to emulate Disney. Mostly stylized crap or some simplistic take on sensitive issues.
So what you're saying is that they totally get culture?
Who 'gets it' more? ABC or HBO?
(This is not a rhetorical question.)
Amazon didn't make American Gods, that was produced by Starz.