How to cite a Netflix show in MLA
To cite a netflix show in a reference entry in MLA style 9th edition include the following elements:
- Contributor(s) name, label: Give the last name and name as presented in the source (e. g. Watson, John) of the primary contributor(s). End with their contribution label preceded by a comma (e. g. Watson, John, director.). When given after the title give the label first followed by the name in normal order (e.g. directed by John Watson).
- Title of the show: Titles are italicized when independent. If part of a larger source add quotation marks and do not italize.
- Publishing studio: If the show is a Netflix Original, then omit this part.
- Year of publication: Give the year of publication as presented in the source.
Here is the basic format for a reference list entry of a netflix show in MLA style 9th edition:
Contributor(s) name, label. Title of the show. Publishing studio, Year of publication, Netflix, www.netflix.com.
Take a look at our works cited examples that demonstrate the MLA style guidelines in action:
Shows are commonly produced by many people performing different parts. If your research focuses on the contribution of one particular person, e.g. the performance of an actress or the ideas of the screenwriter, begin the entry with their name, followed by a descriptive label.
A show retrieved from Netflix with focus on the performer
Stonestreet, Eric, performer. Modern Family, 20th Century Fox, 2009-2018, Netflix, www.netflix.com.
A show retrieved from Netflix with focus on the creator
Poehler, Amy, creator. Russian Doll, 2019, Netflix, www.netflix.com.
Note: Omit publisher.
Otherwise, if you are discussing a show without focusing on an individual's contribution, start with the title. You can add information about key participants after the title.
A show retrieved from Netflix with its creators as key contributors
Modern Family. Created by Christopher Lloyd and Steven Levitan, 20th Century Fox, 2009-2018, Netflix, www.netflix.com.
MLA in-text citation of a Netflix show
Audio-visual material uses the specific time of the audio/video for in-text citations.
(Last name time) or (Short form of title time).
A show retrieved from Netflix with its creators as key contributors
The Pritchetts portray the modern all-American nuclear family (Modern 00:026:16).
A show retrieved from Netflix with focus on the performer
The following scene highlights Cam's stereotypical character (Stonestreet 00:15:43).
This citation style guide is based on the MLA Handbook (9th edition).