Netflix Starts Offering DVD-Like Extras With ‘House Of Cards’ Director’s Commentary

A few months ago, we learned that Netflix was planning on offering DVD-like extras for some of its streaming content.

It appears that it has begun to do so, as it announced today that you can now watch the first season of House of Cards with director’s commentary.

Every episode from the first season is now available with commentary. The first two episodes feature David Fincher. The rest feature James Foley, Joel Schumacher, Charles McDougal, Carl Franklin and Allen Coulter.

It will be interesting to see if the second season debuts with commentary or if it will come later. Perhaps they’ll eventually add some behind-the-scenes stuff and/or actor commentary (it would be nice to get some from Kevin Spacey). The second season will include an episode directed by Jodie Foster. Perhaps we’ll hear what she has to say about the experience.

We could be seeing similar features appear for Netflix’s other originals in the near future. It would also be nice to see actual DVD extras for the various films Netflix offers via its streaming option. It seems like a strong possibility.

Engadget reported in October:

Netflix’s VP of Product Innovation, Todd Yellin, mentioned at the GigaOm Mobilized conference today that the company will begin testing enhanced content or extra features around its original shows such as House of Cards or Orange is the New Black. If that works out, he says Netflix is open to offering DVD extra-style content to other partner providers as well. “Hopefully if we try something like that,” said Yellin, “We have that lightning bolt of an idea that it’s more than just a tiny percent user game.” For those who’re in the process of giving up physical media, additional extras like these could certainly be welcome.

Stay tuned.