Netflix announced that the new Showtime Networks series “Californication,” which stars David Duchovny (”The X Files”), is available exclusively at Netflix for the three weeks prior to the series premiere on Showtime on Monday, August 13 at 10:30 p.m. (Pacific Time/Eastern Time).

This unique marketing promotion provides Netflix subscribers with the opportunity to watch the premiere episode of the new series on DVD or they can watch it instantly on their PC. For the first time, Netflix is offering subscribers the chance to watch original content in advance of its broadcast premiere through both the service’s instant watching feature and via DVD.

“Californication” centers on writer Hank Moody (Duchovny), who struggles to raise his 13-year-old daughter (Madeleine Martin) while still carrying a torch for his ex-girlfriend Karen (Natascha McElhone). His obsession with honesty and self-destructive behavior — drinking, drugs and relationships — are both impeding and enriching his career.