In an unexpected and ironic twist, the ARRI ALEXA 265 has been revealed to be in active use on major Netflix productions, despite not yet appearing on the official Netflix Approved Camera List. This revelation emerged in the wake of an April Fool’s joke, which humorously suggested that Netflix had rejected the camera due to technical concerns. However, the joke inadvertently sparked discussions that led to confirmation from ARRI and Netflix insiders that the ALEXA 265 is indeed a powerhouse tool already being used in Netflix productions. Can’t wait to see these projects!

The April Fool’s Prank That Uncovered the Truth

The saga began with Y.M.Cinema’s April 1st article, “Netflix Rejects ARRI ALEXA 265 from Approved Cameras List – Here’s Why”. The well-crafted prank humorously claimed that Netflix had declined to approve the ALEXA 265 due to concerns over “stitched lines” appearing in high-contrast scenes—a claim referencing the camera’s innovative sensor architecture. It also cheekily suggested that Netflix was prioritizing lower-budget filmmaking solutions over high-end, high-resolution cameras like the ALEXA 265. While the article was meant as a joke, it stirred controversy and confusion among filmmakers and ARRI users, prompting an unexpected response from ARRI executives and Netflix insiders. To quell the uproar, multiple sources confirmed that while the ALEXA 265 is not yet officially listed, it is already in use on major Netflix productions.

ARRI ALEXA 265: A Revolutionary Camera

The ALEXA 265, which was first introduced in December 2024, represents a new frontier in high-end digital cinematography. For a detailed breakdown of its capabilities, Y.M.Cinema previously covered it in “ARRI Introduces the ALEXA 265: A Compact Medium-Format High-End Cinema Camera”. The camera features a redesigned mighty medium format sensor that maintains ARRI’s signature image quality while improving dynamic range and low-light performance. It is also significantly more compact than its predecessor, the ALEXA 65, making it an attractive choice for filmmakers seeking both power and versatility. For those looking to explore the camera’s real-world performance, Y.M.Cinema also published “ARRI ALEXA 265 FAQ: Sample Footage and Concept”, which provides insights into its functionality, early test footage, and workflow considerations.

Netflix’s Camera Approval Process and the Future of the ALEXA 265

Currently, the official Netflix Approved Camera List includes the ARRI ALEXA 35, ALEXA LF, Mini LF, and ALEXA 65. While the ALEXA 265 is not yet officially listed, its active role in Netflix productions strongly suggests that it will be added soon. Netflix’s production guidelines require cameras that can capture at least true 4K resolution with specific dynamic range and color depth standards. Given that the ALEXA 265 exceeds these requirements with its powerfull sensor, it is only a matter of time before it becomes formally approved.

Conclusion: An Unintended Yet Exciting Revelation

What started as an April Fool’s joke has inadvertently brought fantastic news to the filmmaking community. The ARRI ALEXA 265 is already being used to create breathtaking Netflix productions, even if it hasn’t been officially listed yet. The joke may have ruffled some feathers among ARRI shooters, but in the end, it lifted the curtain on an exciting industry development. With its cutting-edge technology and stunning image quality, the ALEXA 265 is set to become a staple for high-end cinematography on Netflix and beyond. And for those still squinting at their high-end OLED screens, desperately searching for those ‘stitched lines’—relax. You’re more likely to spot a missing coffee cup in a medieval fantasy show than to find anything wrong with the mighty ALEV X3 stitched sensor 😉