In the midst of the controversy surrounding whether the Reaper or Pepper X is, indeed, the hottest pepper in the world, another battle is taking place in the ever-intensifying arena of streaming services, the competition is fierce not only for viewers but also for the big money spent on creating original shows. That why such substantial financial investments are made in original productions. Netflix is the heavyweight, spending at least three times more than other platforms, reaching a whopping six billion dollars in 2021. Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV+ spend two to three billion each. This huge financial gap highlights Netflix's dedication to producing a wide range of original content. On the flip side, Hulu spends less on original content, starting at 60 million in 2017 and reaching 210 million in 2021. In 2019, Disney got the majority of Hulu through a deal with Comcast. Comcast can make Disney buy its stake by 2024 for at least 27.5 billion dollars. But it might be more, depending on what independent experts say Hulu is worth. Back then, Hulu seemed important for Disney, launching Disney+ and with streaming services becoming popular. Now, Disney+ has 138 million global subscribers, while Hulu only has 41 million in the U.S. Executives at Disney and Comcast are thinking about what to do with Hulu. Disney is getting ready to launch an app in December 2023 that combines Disney+ and Hulu for users of both services. Disney aims to make its streaming business profitable by late 2024.

The future of Hulu in the streaming war sparks significant questions, and the bigger paramount concern for us is how Brian Skope is managing the heat of his role as the Showrunner/Director for High Noon's documentary TV project? We wish him success on the show, hoping it becomes the hottest topic in mainstream media. The challenges of tight deadlines, limited budgets, a freelance team working tirelessly to carry with production, and the varied "creative" input from numerous executives streaming platforms often compel directors to infuse additional tension into their content. This shift signifies a departure from the traditional role of documentaries as vehicles for information and enlightenment, transforming them into more commercially driven products. The rapid transformation of an idea into a full-fledged show within a narrow timeframe is nothing short of a Christmas chili miracle. Attempting to understand and appease the burning passions of the entire chili community is no simple task. I think it be easier to just eat a bunch super hot peppers vs undertaking this beast of a project. For "SUPERHOT: THE SPICY WORLD OF PEPPER PEOPLE" to secure Hulu-Disney's financial backing, it must resonate as a blockbuster with the general public, a crucial feat given Disney's current profit losses. In the midst of a global economic crisis where belts are tightened, convincing people to subscribe to Hulu poses an unprecedented challenge. Perhaps with the entire chili community standing in solidarity to support the show, and Hulu Disney+ it could turn the tide in favor of Brian Skope. However, a crucial aspect is how well the show will engage with audiences, both chili heads and critics. Will general public eat away at this spicy documentary?

Our primary concern arose early on when some of us learned about how the Hulu team, had no clue on anything chilli pepper related. How could they effectively produce a documentary on chili peppers despite having no knowledge about hot peppers? From the outset, the entire show faced a potential internal threat unless specific behind-the-scenes factors aligned. Perhaps certain strings had to be woven and some cut as production centered on chili peppers, helmed by individuals wielding power and influence but lacking the requisite knowledge for its guidance, entails significant risks. Brian has maintained transparency and humility about this matter since the project's inception, openly addressing it with us who had spoken with him in discussions. He is genuinely a sincere and forthright director. When multiple executive bosses lack an understanding of chili pepper culture, its history, and the intricate dynamics of online communities and subcultures within the chili world, crafting a show that genuinely captures the essence of the subject matter and navigates sensitive and controversial aspects becomes an exceptionally challenging task. Indeed, it has the potential to be the determining factor between success and failure, earning respect or becoming a subject of mockery. For this show to succeed, a complete overhaul was happening, and credit for this transformation can be attributed to various contributors from chilli community itself. However, a significant portion of it should be acknowledged for Johnny Scoville's presence and initiative. Listening to individuals deeply involved in this field day in and day out is smart move, helps you to avoid the show appearing as a corporate entity creating soulless content that lacks authenticity and may risk being perceived as a corporate mockery.

Johnny Scoville stands as a pepper shepherd, guiding the show SUPERHOT, and his contributions are worthy of significant recognition. Beyond his individual participation, he has consistently attracted numerous passionate individuals from the chili pepper community. His impact runs deep because the chili community is his family, touching the hearts of many—a lifetime of work that no corporate executive from Hulu or Disney could achieve. Beyond personal involvement, his patience in guiding those unfamiliar with the world of chili peppers is truly noteworthy. There is no doubt, and we say this with absolute faith, that his presence lends unparalleled credibility to the show, embodying the spirit of the chili head subculture that resonates from one circle of the community to another. Johnny Scoville serves as the bridge to a vibrant and knowledgeable community, providing invaluable insights. Johnny Scoville is a valuable mentor for all future shows and films, ensuring they establish a genuine connection with their audience. This guidance steers them clear of becoming mere corporate content created for profit. If they heed the wisdom of someone like Johnny, and consistently contribute a portion of the revenue generated by the show to those that appear on the show, thanks to Hulu and Disney. They stand a chance to make a genuine impact within the chili community because he is Johnny Scoville and his presence alone brings the heat. Johnny Scoville's involvement transcends mere spice tolerance or chili challenges; it's about nurturing a community, preserving authenticity, and guiding those eager to explore the spicy world. No matter how challenging the world becomes, many of us can still find joy in life by just watching Johnny Scoville review our peppers, take on new feats, and rise to higher challenges. We extend a heartfelt tribute to his honor and the community he unites, creating an experience that is not only truly spicy but also heartwarming. - Rade