Alright, everyone, gather ’round, ‘cause Disney+ has finally picked up on what Netflix has been up to for ages. Took ’em a fair bit of time, didn’t it? Netflix’s Top 10 lists have been around for what seems like forever. But our pals at Disney+ didn’t just do a straightforward copy-and-paste; they’ve tossed in some of their own flair. So let’s explore what Disney has been up to – and if it’s worth it.
Daily Recommendations (Finally, Disney!)
Indeed, Netflix has been dishing out their Top 10 lists for five whole years now. Five! Updated so frequently you’d believe someone at Netflix HQ has an unmanageable coffee addiction. Prime Video joined the fray eventually, albeit at its usual sluggish pace. And now Disney’s finally chosen to step up and offer us their take. Makes you wonder what took ’em so long, doesn’t it?
As of last week, the Top 10 list has begun appearing on Disney+ for most users – whether you’re checking it out on your phone or yelling at the TV. The Top 10 is essentially a selection of popular films and series that greet you the moment you log in. It’s about time, right? Netflix has been doing this since before my Jack Russell Terrier even graced us with her presence.
But It’s *Tailored*… Kind Of
This is where Disney+ is trying to be clever. While Netflix keeps films and series in separate lists, Disney+ aims to merge them into one, and it’s “tailored” to a certain extent. No, they’re not reading your mind (yet), but the Top 10 you see might be slightly varied based on your viewing history, how you’ve rated other content, and even your subscription tier (because naturally, Disney+ enjoys complicating things).
It’s also location-dependent, meaning what your friend in London sees could differ quite a bit from what you’re viewing up in Newcastle. Intriguing, huh? Maybe, but it’s just as likely you’ll still end up watching something not-so-great anyway. We’ve all been in that boat.
New Releases Are Clearly The Focus
Indeed, just like Netflix, Disney’s eager to push their shiny new offerings right in front of you. New series, new films, whatever they believe will keep your attention fixed on the screen and prevent you from bailing on their pricey subscription. And if something new suddenly gains traction, that’ll appear in the Top 10 too.
So if you’re the type who waits for all episodes to drop and are glued to social media, don’t worry, they’ve got you sorted. You’ll get recommendations for trending content as well. Quite smart, really. Still, I’m not letting them off the hook for taking forever to roll out this feature.
Combining Films and Series: A Smart Move
Let’s give them some props. Instead of separating the Top 10 into films and series, like Netflix does, Disney’s bundling them all together. Makes sense, right? Most folks couldn’t care less about the distinction; they just want to know what’s popular. Simple as that.
Now, you can compare “The Mandalorian” with “Frozen 2” without needing to navigate through another irrelevant menu. One less step for me to mess up while half-asleep on the couch. Good stuff.
Oh, And They Display The Release Date (Thanks, Disney)
Another nice little detail is that Disney even shows the release date directly on the Top 10 list. It’s a minor detail, but handy. It prevents those awkward moments when you’re watching something thinking it’s fresh, only to find out it’s been around for three years. Nobody wants that. Plus, if it’s Halloween or something, expect them to jam some spooky films down your throat, because apparently, everyone loves a seasonal pick. Dead original, right?
No Kids Allowed in the Top 10
Now, get this – the Top 10 list isn’t accessible for kids’ profiles. So if you set up the little ones with their profile to keep Peppa Pig on a loop, they won’t be encountering this list. And that’s likely for the best since the Top 10 is aimed at adults and their more mature tastes. Don’t want to wade through a bunch of animated content when all you’re after is the next Marvel fix, do ya?
More Disney+ Happenings? Absolutely
Here are some other things I’ve penned, if you’ve got a moment to check them out while sidestepping your actual duties:
- Disney+ Password Sharing Ban: Another Cash Grab?
- Only Murders in the Building Season 5: Can They Keep It Engaging?
Wrapping It Up: Disney’s Borrowing, Took Aged Being, But Not All Bad
Disney+ has finally matched Netflix’s move and slapped a Top 10 list onto their platform. It offers some extra features, like personalisation and the combination of films and series. It’s quite useful, but come on, Disney, took you long enough!
So, there you have it, yet another feature you didn’t realise you needed but will probably find yourself using since you can’t decide what to watch if your life depended on it. Keep an eye out for it – unless you’re on a kid’s profile or just couldn’t care less, which is fair enough.
