Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s Netflix production company Archewell has been urged to “take notes” from Barack and Michelle Obama’s successful content strategy, according to industry insiders.
Whilst the Obamas’ Higher Ground Productions has garnered critical acclaim and an Oscar, the Sussexes’ venture has struggled to make a meaningful impact since its 2020 launch.
The contrast between the two production companies has become increasingly stark, with Archewell’s output being described as “unremarkable” since its founding, according to The Telegraph.
Higher Ground, established in 2018, has distinguished itself with a diverse portfolio of well-reviewed, socially conscious films and documentaries, including the Oscar-winning “American Factory” and biographical drama “Rustin”.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle urged to ‘take notes’ from Barack and Michelle Obama’s success
Getty
The Sussexes’ company, meanwhile, has only produced four Netflix documentaries, with only their self-titled series “Harry & Meghan” achieving significant viewership.
Archewell’s latest venture, Polo, failed to reach Netflix’s top 10 charts globally, highlighting the company’s struggle to connect with audiences.
The production company has promised more content, including “fictional, scripted content” and “light-hearted rom-coms”, though none have yet materialised.
There are also plans for a cooking and gardening show from Meghan, though this remains in development.
Queen Elizabeth, Barack Obama, Michelle Obama and Prince Philip in 2016
PA
The company was founded with the stated aim of “illuminating thought-provoking and diverse narratives that underscore our common humanity and celebrate community”.
However, since its 2020 launch, only the Harry & Meghan documentary has managed to capture significant viewer attention, with audiences reportedly tiring of the couple’s output.
In contrast, Higher Ground has consistently delivered acclaimed content, with Obama himself winning an Emmy for Outstanding Narrator for “Working: What We Do All Day”.
The Obamas’ company has shown remarkable versatility, producing everything from nature documentaries to psychological thrillers like “Leave The World Behind”.
Higher Ground was founded with the aim of producing “a diverse mix of content – including docu-series, documentaries and features”.
The company has recently evolved its strategy, branching out from purely educational content to more entertainment-focused projects, including the festive comedy “Merry Ex-Mas”.
Despite this shift, Higher Ground maintains its commitment to quality, with recent productions including the black comedy “Bodkin” and the upcoming fantasy epic “Exit West” starring Riz Ahmed.
The company has successfully balanced serious documentaries about basketball and oceans with more experimental entertainment offerings.
