Netflix turns to first-time filmmakers for an edge in streaming wars

Stefon Bristol had a clear vision of his first feature project. As a graduate film student at NYU, he had already shot a short version of a movie called "See You Yesterday," a story about a science-obsessed New York City teen who masters time travel to save her loved ones.

Bristol knew a film with a young black heroine, an unknown cast and a socially-conscious message about police brutality might be a tough sell in traditional Hollywood.

But the aspiring director was determined to reach a wide audience. With the backing of mentor and producer Spike Lee, he took the idea to Netflix, which eagerly agreed to finance and distribute the movie.

The vote of confidence paid off: 12 million households watched at least 70% of "See You Yesterday" in its first four weeks after its release in May, according to Netflix.

"The game plan was to tell our story to as many people as possible and, honestly, I don't think I would have gotten that number if it was