Would you recognise the original Netflix logo?

The sleek, curved red wordmark that Netflix uses today is instantly recognisable.

Just as any iconic logo should be. But it wasn’t always this way. 

When Netflix launched back in 1997 – yes, that long ago – it started as a DVD rental service, and its original logo was a far cry from the one we know today.

The original Netflix logo was very much rooted in 90s design trends. It featured a film reel, complete with a gradient running from black to purple and back to black. Interestingly, the name was split into two separate words: ‘Net’ and ‘Flix’, with the film reel dividing them. It’s a design that reflects Netflix's early days as a film rental company, but one that looks quite dated now.

The second logo (2000).

In 2000, Netflix underwent a major logo overhaul. Gone was the film reel and gradient. Instead, it was replaced with a black ellipse, where the name appeared in white. The dot on the letter ‘i’ was designed as an outline of a TV screen. However, the most puzzling element was the addition of yellow curves, which – while likely intended to add motion or energy – oddly resemble brake discs to me. What do you see? Any ideas on what they were going for?

The 2004 Logo.

By 2004, Netflix's logo started to look more familiar. The red background and curved base of the lettering began to take shape, though this version still had a black 3D shadow behind the white text. It was a step closer to the sleek simplicity of today’s logo, but still retained a more dated, complex design style.

The current Netflix logo (2014).

In 2014, Netflix streamlined its logo to match its evolving identity. The 3D shadow was dropped, the lettering was slimmed down, and the entire wordmark was turned red. This simple yet bold design became the iconic Netflix logo we recognise today. It’s a far cry from the original 1997 version, but in my opinion, that’s a good thing. The logo now reflects the brand’s sleek, global appeal.

As a regular Netflix viewer, I’d say this logo ranks alongside other iconic designs like Apple’s for its simplicity, originality, and recognisability.

What about you? Do you think the evolution of the Netflix logo has been a step in the right direction?