Bit Torrent + Four Eyed Monsters = The Perfect Match

http://www.bittorrent.com/company/about/bittorrent_rolls_out_bt_apps_and_debuts_award_winning_film_four_eyed_monste
Press - Company - BitTorrent - Delivering the World's Content. (n.d.). Retrieved February 18, 2015, from http://www.bittorrent.com/company/about/bittorrent_rolls_out_bt_apps_and_debuts_award_winning_film_four_eyed_monste

This particular article is a press release distributed by the company, "Bit Torrent," discussed in depth within this blog, "Bit Torrent."  Basically, BitTorrent is an online platform designed so that creators and consumers of media may keep control over their content and data.  Previously associated with the illegal practice of piracy, the company somewhat has a stigma that surrounds it.  On the contrary, the entire purpose of Bit Torrent is to provide a service that combats piracy by sharing content that benefits both ends of the spectrum; the distributor gains in exposure and monetarily while
the audience may interact with the producers in a satisfactory transaction of film content.

Also, in last week's posting, the independent self-distributed film "Four Eyed Monsters" was discussed.  The indie hit had shortsighted notoriety that faded along with a new era of alternatively distributed work, which this film had ironically incited.  The success of the film has dwindled because although it was the first film to legally be distributed on Youtube, it had yet to compete with newly popularized independent films consumed through popular streaming services such as Netflix or Itunes.

And now comes BitTorrent to the rescue... once again!  This posting will focus on how Bit Torrent and "Four Eyed Monsters" are pairing up in a mutually beneficial way that is changing the way the retro indie work is being viewed and consumed.

Important Quotes Explained..

1. " To celebrate the milestone and continue with the artist experiments started last summer, BitTorrent also released the award winning film 'Four Eyed Monsters,' a docudrama that chronicles the relationship of a couple who meet on the Internet...Starting today, the film will be available within BitTorrent Mainline and BitTorrent as a custom app where consumers can download the film with one click and access the film's website, social media properties and a donations link."
• This quote announces a deal that the film and the site have created.  It is refreshing that the artifact of early 2000's independent film is being reborn in a new medium: one that allows for up to 68 million users of Bit Torrent to view the film in a legal and lucrative manner.
2. "The barriers to filmmaking have fallen, but the gates around distribution through traditional TV, theatrical and video-on-demand remain locked...With a user base of over 80 million, BitTorrent is exposing our film to an audience larger than many television networks and fostering a direct connection between audiences and filmmakers. The creators who embrace this modern approach will encourage a new culture of audiences who support the production of movies they want to see and help distribute the ones in which they fall in love."

• Arin Crumley, the creator and star of "Four Eyed Monsters", expresses his excitement regarding the redistribution of his film in a more modern era of alternative film viewing and consuming.  He knows that, at this point in time, Bit Torrent is the best possible way for his revolutionary work of film to live on in the minds of audiences.  With newly  alternatively released films bombarding the masses each and every day, this refreshingly honest work only needed a             platform that would give it the chance to capture the hearts of audiences once again.
3. "Giving content creators a platform to connect with consumers is not only a step towards bridging the gap in the digital divide, but is also an evolution in new media distribution and business models.  Our work with partners like TuneUp and the creators of 'Four Eyed Monsters' are significant steps in helping improve the discovery, distribution and delivery of digital media."
• It is wonderful how "Four Eyed Monsters" and  "Bit Torrent", both underrated evolutionary pieces in film and media, have come together.  These independent means of pleasing audiences are often forgotten, yet they are sincere, and the only way that each can make a name for itself is by joining together --  ultimately creating a battalion of independent work that revolutionizes film as we know it by flipping the industry on its axis.

To Keep it Simple...

Bit Torrent has created innovative ways of contacting consumers, using an app platform that has grown to 65 million users since its launch in September.  This program called "app studios" provides everything a film lover needs, offering unique media content such as films from VODO and TEDtalks, and providing sharing features as well as games and utility tune ups.  Pretty much, its a one-stop shop for film content using software that makes it essentially downloadable, streaming through "click-to-watch" technology.

"Four Eyed Monsters" is fortunately not the test dummy in Bit Torrent's redistribution plan.  Many artists' work have recently been released by this program and proven to be lucrative, generating up to $33,000 solely in donations and sponsorship facilitated by Bit Torrent.  Besides the monetary aspect, sheer exposure is also important to many film makers because developing a fan base secures an audience for future work.  Some examples of content released through Bit Torrent have been downloaded over two million times...and this evolution in viewing film content has only begun.

Bit Torrent is sparking what looks like a wildfire: a brand new initiative that brings content creators and consumers together in an efficient manner.  Most recently, something called Feature Artist Pilot Program has set up a kind of competition that offers filmmaker and musicians the chance to promote their creative work using this platform.  I cannot wait to see what kinds of new and exciting innovations that Bit Torrent is bound to make, and how these will serve to benefit the popularity and revenue garnered by "Four Eyed Monsters" all these years later.   In the last posting, it seemed as it there was no hope for this 'antique' independent work.  Even so, Bit Torrent has emerged as an amazing opportunity for the film, embracing its quirky and independent vibes and running with them...on the fast track towards success.


"Bit Torrent Inc., a technology company engineering transformative new products to accelerate the discovery, distribution, and delivery of media over the internet."



Stay tuned for the next posting which will encompass some research and fact finding on the Independent Film Channel, more commonly known as IFC which provides an outlet for the "voices of the independent culture."  It is a fascinating medium of entertainment, and suprisingly, has an unknown background story regarding "Four Eyed Monsters" the film.

Until next time!

All about "Four Eyed Monsters"

http://www.indiewire.com/article/forgotten-mavericks-ten-years-later-what-happened-to-four-eyed-monsters-20150121
Guerassio, J. (2015, January 23). Forgotten Mavericks: Ten Years Later, What Happened to 'Four Eyed Monsters'? Retrieved February 18, 2015, from  http://www.indiewire.com/article/forgotten-mavericks-ten-years-later-what-happened-to-four-eyed-monsters-20150121

 IndieWire is a major source of all things current and relevant in the Independent film-making world.  With a ride range of focus points and diverse kinds of information, the site truly keeps film fanatics up to date regarding the most recent innovations in Independent film work, which often entails self distribution due to the latest technology.  However, this article focuses on a long lost treasure within the Indie film world.  A little more than ten years ago, "Four Eyed Monsters" changed film as we know it on a very minor, yet influential scale.  Aroon Crumley And Susan Buice, an eccentric couple turned film team, produced an off beat romantic film about how lovers communicate in alternative ways using new technology and artistic means of expression, 'creating their own reality.'  This innovative theme caught interest among an age of people that popularized social media and online communication as a primary means of communicating.  "In short, 'Four Eyed Monsters' was the first movie made for an internet-savvy audience in its own vernacular."  The way that Crumley and Buice distributed their film through youtube (a relatively new site at the time) with marketing solely based on podcasts had people in the independent film world automatically assuming that the pair had completely revolutionized the DIY distribution game.  Sadly, this revolutionary spark incited a new trend which "Four Eyed Monsters" ultimately couldn't keep up with. As brand new sources of streaming and downloading film popularized new independent works, the ingenuity of this once celebrated media content faded into the past--which seems light-years away due to such rapid convergence of media within the last decade.

Here's the trailer with a little peak at the Film "Four Eyed Monsters", which has been viewed by millions of users on youtube.  Warning: The cover photo is somewhat strange at first glance, but these two minutes of charming film snippets are definitely worth watching.

Important Quotes Explained...

1.  "The directors tapped into a trend among filmmakers eschewing traditional paths of distribution for a do-it-yourself drive to build an audience, which in time, would reward the creators monetarily. But what Crumley and Buice didn't consider was that the industry would adapt. "
• The best part of being such innovative dependent filmmakers also turned out to be the worst; Crumley and Buice set the precedent for a new trend in self/alternative distribution during the modern age. They set the bar high, creating big shoes for aspiring indie producers to fill.
2.  "For Crumley and Buice, YouTube became a wakeup call about the travails of working with a corporation. But from the outside, the indie film community felt the duo had found "the answer" to an alternative means of distribution. "
•  From the outside looking in, being the first film legally distributed through you tube was considered a hallmark success.  On the contrary, it wound up becoming the kiss of death for "Four Eyed Monsters", which couldn't keep up once streaming and downloadable content took the media world by storm.
3. "It's very ironic, we were these digital pioneers but today it's not on the digital platforms," Crumley said. "After the black out year [the streaming space] became crowded and competitive. The only way to do it now is through companies that require rights that remove the YouTube mechanism. Those paths don't equate to any kind of distribution deal, there's nothing beneficial."

•  In this quote, the dude behind the dynamic DIY duo addresses the high competition sparked among digital forums for space and more importantly, exposure.  Crumley has a much more cynical approach regarding the prospects that may arise through self distribution and alternative film marketing.
4.  "Buice sees it differently. “He's wrong. He's totally wrong,” she said. "There's no scenario in which we lose by having it on Netflix. Having our film streaming on Netflix makes our film seem legit. Being on YouTube is not legit."
   
   
   • Ms. Buice has a much more optimistic outlook regarding the potential that "Four Eyed Monsters" may reach using new technology and streaming sources. Perhaps Netflix and BitTorrent can bring back buzz and make some profit off an 'artifact of early 2000s DIY film" that in its sheer and ironic simplicity, has been forgotten.
   
   
   
   
   
   
    To Keep it simple... 
   
   
   "Four Eyed Monsters" was one of the first of its kind: an ultra-low-budget film produced and distributed independently.  It planted the seeds for a modern grassroots movement that simultaneously grew alongside the digital age.  The directors, producers, and actors behind the project, a legitimate real life couple, laid the foundation for alternative distribution even before its conception.  However, this forward-thinking innovation wound up backfiring on the creative team, whose film sparked changes in an industry which adapts and expands so rapidly that it was almost impossible for "Four Eyed Monsters" to keep up the pace.  This "do it yourself" model made popular by Buice and Crumley is now far more common, and therefore, the chances of producing lucrative, fan-followed independent film work are slim to none.  Instead of cracking the code to what a successful DIY film truly entails, the code rearranged as a reaction to this new independent work.  Nowadays, "Four Eyed Monsters" is an irrelevant independent film because it is currently still distributed only though Youtube and other free streaming services that are a bit outdated, rather than main players in streaming distribution such as Netflix.
   
   
   At the time the film was produced, Youtube was the best route to take in alternative distribution.  However, Crumley now realizes that in order to be successful in all aspects of indppendent film, there is not a specific path or set of guidelines that should be followed.  Each work of media is different , just as every situation is subjective, and these variances must be treated accordingly.  After a sour deal that went horribly wrong with IFC, Buice and Crumley emerged from the situation with nothing to show for it...at least monetarily.  Considering that "Four eyed Monsters" was their first film, the professionalism they truly needed in order to have their efforts succeed was lacking.  Nowadays, the independent film can still be found on youtube as well as a couple disks circulating through Amazon.  Even so, it still can not be found on Netflix or even itunes..and it has yet to be determined whether it ever will.  In the end of the day, "Four Eyed Monsters" did a superb job of capturing a moment and securing a dedicated audience, but for whatever reason, Buice and Crumley were unable to harness this energy and turn it into longlasting success marked by recognition or even monetary gain.
   
   
   
     

Stay tuned for the next posting which will discuss how BitTorrent is lending a helping hand to "Four Eyed Monsters."  Or is it the other way around?  Until next time...

Independent Distribution from the 'Raindance' Perspective:

http://www.raindance.org/self-distribution-for-filmmakers/

Grove, E. (n.d.). Self Distribution For Filmmakers. Retrieved February 9, 2015, from http://www.raindance.org/self-distribution-for-filmmakers/

Raindance.org is the official website for the film festival itself, which largely comprises independent and more cutting-edge, low budget films that are not necessarily in the main stream.  It is a great hub of information within the film industry providing a variety of resources and tips that will serve aspiring independent filmmakers fairly well within their careers.  This particular article on self distribution for independent filmmakers, written by Elliot Grove, is as haphazard as it is genius.  The writer, Elliot Grove, is a veteran in the industry with 155 film  productions under his belt as well as three books regarding the film distribution industry in a holistic sense.  In the article, Grove promotes the process of self distribution for filmmakers by providing certain successful case studies of independent films that made it 'big.'

Important Quotes Explained...

1. "The beauty of self-distribution is that you cut out the middleman - the much loathed and feared distributor. These days it doesn't mean that you have to do all the work yourself. You can hire publicists, theatre bookers and so on. But it does mean that you have to do more work."
• This interesting quote addresses both the bright and dark sides associated with alternative self distribution.  Although this plan may eliminate the scariest aspect of the film production process, it also means that the entire role of distributor is up to you.  This is a very lofty task that many aspiring filmmakers can't carry out without the help of a production, marketing and distribution team also behind the project.
2. "With their hopes for conventional movie deals increasingly dead on arrival, more and more indie filmmakers are opting for a do-it-yourself model: self-distribution, once the route of the desperate, reckless or defiant, has become an increasingly attractive option for movies otherwise deprived of theatrical exhibition."
• Elliot Grove provides excellent insight into the world of independent film, where self-distribution is a trending phenomenon.  Quite frankly, with the competition for big distribution companies' backing so high in the film industry, many filmmakers are defying the conventional process within the business.  They are tired of their film not being given the attention and exposure that it deserves, and somehow feel that only they will do their own motion picture justice because all the main players in the industry are solely focused on big revenue.  Perhaps this is why self/alternative distribution has become so popular in modern generations, along with new tools that make downloadable and streaming film content so instantaneous and easy.
3. "At this year's film festival several so-called acquisition executives representing different websites waved a internet distribution deal at filmmakers. Amazingly, this 'deal' from so-called 'acquisition executives' offers little or no money up front, and generally handcuffs the film to the website even to the point of not allowing festival screenings or being attached to compilation DVD's. I can't think of a worse position to place yourself in, especially since promised revenue streams are always net of the website's distribution expenses."
• This is definitely a red flag for filmmakers who believe they 'made it big' once their film is set to be distributed through 'sketchy' internet streaming services.  However, if they only read the fine print, they would realize that this may very well be the devil's deal for anybody attempting to keep autonomy over their project while also making profit.  In many cases, Mr. Grove is attempting to give a heads-up to people who could potentially make this mistake while simultaneously subliminally promoting his own film festival, "Raindance", as the way to go...Biased much?  Then again, this article does come from Raindance Film Festival's website, so the bias is not without cause.

To keep it simple...

Here is a brief description of five recently produced independent films that proved to be 'successful' using the alternative distribution model.

• "Bottle Shock"
• played at sundance film festival; featuring big name actors such as Bill Pullman and Alan Rickman (yep...that is Severus Snape)
• director came with experience and a critically acclaimed short film
• film could not find any backing among established distribution companies
• director took a 'maverick route': self distributed the film within one week in twelve cities...
• inspired other indie film works to follow the same model (ex: 'Ballast', 'Wicked Lake', 'The Singing Revolution', 'Last Stop for Paul')
• "HoneyDripper"
• directed by Mr. Sayles and Ms. Renzi , an established duo in the independent film business (16 features in 27 years)
• virtually all black cast; starring Danny Glover, who is a big name in the motion picture industry
• set in an Alabama juke box joint circa the past, using marketing methods to promote the work that are extremely modern! (juxtaposition between the old and the new...attracts viewers)
• ex: digital projection, blues bars, college aged audience targeting methods, the internet, underserved movie houses, etc.
• "Four Eyed Monsters"
• made on a 'shoestring' budget
• amazed audiences by capturing more views through online distribution than many featured blockbusters do
• considered to be the most successful self distributed film of all time.

So as you can see, the ingredients in producing a self distributed film are tricky because, in some cases, they defy the conventional rules within the cutthroat business of film.  Afterall, one of the most successful films to come through Raindance was "Jesus Christ Vampire Hunter", a raucous and rowdy 'comedy-horror-adventure-mustical' made on an extremely stingy budget.  Sometimes, success in independent film requires the director to not take himself so seriously, and merely rely on intuition and innovation.  As "Cluetrain Manifesto" would have it, producing a successfully self-distributed film requires the right combination of integrity and originality.

 "Tell us some good stories and capture our interest. Don’t talk to us like you’ve forgotten how to speak. Don’t make us feel small, remind us to be larger. Get a little of that human touch.”  - The Cluetrain Manifesto.

"So there you have it. There are no rules. It's a nascent opportunity.  Make a film. Understand the process. Get a bit of seed marketing money. Roll up your sleeves. Launch your career."  -Elliot Grove

It's as easy as it sounds! Or is it really? Stay tuned for the next posting which will review the production and distribution process behind the independent film, "Four Eyed Monsters."  It is safe to say we might all be curious what tools this self distributed film utilized on the road to becoming the most successful of its kind...Until next time.

Streaming and Dowloading for Content Creators 101...not as easy as it sounds

http://www.beyondtheboxoffice.com/blog/film-distribution/online-film-distribution-101-download-or-stream-your-movie/

Online Film Distribution 101 - Download or Stream Your Movie. (2011, May 7). Retrieved February 2, 2015, from http://www.beyondtheboxoffice.com/blog/film-distribution/online-film-distribution-101-download-or-stream-your-movie/

"Beyond the box office" is a forum of information regarding film distribution that goes far beyond typical distribution.  Instead, it emphasizes the details regarding self/alternative distribution, and how real life filmmakers manage to promote their work through new kinds of streaming distributions made possible through modern technologies.  This particular article, titled "Online Film Distribution 101- Download or Stream Your Movie," explains the basics regarding how producers of independent film work are able to easily make their media content available to consumers who readily take advantage of streaming and downloadable resources.  Here is a brief recap of the informative article, paired with commentary on some important quotations that appeared on the website.

Important Quotations Explained...

1. "I told you why I like streaming, here is why you should like it. Many players are embeddable so it makes it easy for people to share your content. "
• New technological resources and strategies have made it easier to filmmakers to self distribute their work, using the latest innovations to share media content in a manner that engages with the audience, but still can prove lucrative.
2. "Some players like Distrify and Dynamo have monetization built in. This is the best of both worlds, it gives you an ability to monetize your content in a meaningful way and allows your content to be shared easily."
• The greatest part of these new sites that target self/alternatively distributed media content is that both the consumers and producers within the film industry are usually satisfied.  In the end of the day, viewers of film wish to be entertained, and film producers wish to gain monetarily from their work, while widening a fan base and increasing exposure.
3. "One thing to note is that for many of these, you’ll have to do your own promotion and marketing. That is, it’s fine and dandy to get your film on iTunes but it doesn’t mean anyone will know it’s there...In addition, if you put your content up on a site with a lot of other content you have competition for attention."
• This concept really comes full circle regarding some of the topics that appeared much earlier in this blog! Any aspiring filmmakers going the self-distribution route must keep in mind that in order to gain from this alternative method, they must take on roles in marketing as well.  The only way to gain from a self-distributed film is to master all roles of producer, marketer, and distributor.

To keep it simple...

 

The first topic explored in the article is the fact that, besides easy streaming, downloadable media content is another growing trend in online film distribution.  Once a consumer downloads the content you have uploaded, the viewing of it is relatively quick and easy due to modern resources in technology and internet resources.  However, it is important to remember that for many popular streaming and downloading media hubs, such as ITunes, an aggregator has to approve of your work in order for it to be officially downloadable.  Aggregators may or may not include Distribber, Indie Flix, and New Video Group, and filmmakers wishing to alternatively distribute their work also must take note of the fact that Apple has to approve of the film content, which is often not an instantaneous process.  In the instance of streaming, content is made available without needing to be downloaded.    Sometimes, the content must load and buffer in order to be accurately viewed, but some sites are so technologically savvy that, like "Netflix," it only takes a click to instantly watch video content.  Netflix, vimeo, and youtube are examples of streaming sites.  Netflix, like ITunes, also works with aggregators in an approval process similar to the one that ITunes uses.  The great part of streaming is that it appeals to audiences through instant gratification.  Many streaming sites make marketing easier through imbeddable links, which may go directly to trailers or other forms of advertising for film content.  Bloggers often use this imbedding option, while many self distributors prefer sites that allow their content to be distributed through facebook.  Smaller and less developed streaming sources like Youtube and vimeo offer this feature, while Netflix and Amazon video on demand do not.

 

There are different ways for content creators to make profit from putting their products on streaming/downloading sites.  For example, in the iTunes model, the profits are split 70%/30%, with the aggregator sometimes receiving a bit of profit depending on the specific agreement.  On the other hand, "Vodo" is a streaming site that uses technology more indicative of bit torrents, which does not exactly use a profit model, but utilizes peer to peer sharing which allows for consumers to donate or sponsor the film content in support of it.  Some streaming sites, such as Distrify and Dynamo even have monetization built in, while others use paid ads to generate profits.  Hulu works on the model with incremental amounts of payback each time the content is viewed by consumers on the streaming sites.





It is important for distributors using streaming and downloading sites to remember that, unless you are completely self distributing your own work, you must retain streaming video on demand rights to the film.  Even so, this is only the first step toward gaining monetary benefit and viewer exposure.  With the trend of self/alternative distribution on the rise, so is the competition, and it will be interesting to see exactly what strategies are best in promoting successfully self distributed film content.  Stay tuned!

 

Netflix...'nuff Said

http://www.digitaltrends.com/home-theater/netflix-change-antiquated-way-movies-released/

Waniata, R. (2014, October 14). Can Netflix change how movies are released and distributed? Ted Sarandos thinks so. Retrieved January 27, 2015, from http://www.digitaltrends.com/home-theater/netflix-change-antiquated-way-movies-released/

Digitaltrends.com is a hub of information regarding just what it advertises: trends in digital media, which now often coincides with converging media.  Many entertainment industries are currently undergoing changes along with improvements in technology, but a notable Digital Trend in the film distribution game has been the highly acclaimed streaming source "Netflix."  This company has taken America by storm, with its simple "click and watch" efficient approach to media consumption, particularly in film and Television.  Most recently, Netflix has been planning new platforms in order to dominate the film industry. It has become such a popular and addicting form of viewing film and television that now, it is more common to see people gathered around the TV with a bowl of popcorn watching Netflix than actually taking the 'old school' approach and going to the movie theaters.

Important Quotes Explained...

 

1. "Far more than just a simple website that allows users to stream TV shows and movies, Netflix has focused on becoming a global disruptor, upending the status quo, and changing the way we think about entertainment, and even online information "
• In a world of constantly converging media, with distribution dominators seemingly monopolizing the film markets, Netflix has completely upped its game and changed modern conventions of production and distribution.  In no time at all, this streaming site has taken over as a source of entertainment that is constantly improving to meet the needs of consumers and evolving based on the newest innovations within the industry.
2. "And innovating movie production and distribution is just the tip of the iceberg for Netflix as it continues its quest for world domination. "
• Not only has the Netflix enterprise taken America by storm, but it is quickly expanding to become an international powerhouse of entertainment production and distribution, through the most efficient streaming technologies that circumvent all notions of piracy.  Now, many regions of Europe are beginning to catch on to the Netflix craze, and this expansion towards foreign markets is only expected to increase as the company widens its scope.
3. "With a firm grasp over American audiences, award winning, and critically acclaimed original TV series’, and an eye towards changing the entire movie distribution paradigm, Netflix isn’t exactly thinking small. And just as the company no doubt planned, we’ll all be watching with anticipation to see what Netflix will do next."
• With award winning original Television productions produced by Netflix, a new plan that involves streaming distribution while simultaneously putting the movie in theaters, and now "straight to Netflix" films sponsored by and starring big name actors, the public must wonder what this company will be up to next!  It seems like Netflix is continuing to amaze us with new, consumer friendly entertainment distribution strategies, and I cannot wait to see the effects that these will have on the film industry as a whole.  Moreover, I am curious to see the discrepancies in producer and consumer reactions regarding how the dominating force Netflix holds in the industry will affect film media in general.

This is a short clip, featuring a CNN interview with Netflix CEO Reed Hastings, that pretty much says it all. More importantly, it foreshadows the recent turns that Netflix has been making in entertainment innovation as a production and distribution dominator.

 
 
To keep it simple...
 
So what exactly are the next steps Netflix plans to take in its quest toward worldwide domination in entertainment?  From what it seems like, there are two major changes in the works for the insanely popular streaming company.  First, Netflix plans to change the way consumers receive media content by accelerating the release time for movies.  Essentially,  Netflix is trying to serve the current population spoiled by "On Demand" services by providing "click and watch" content to consumers who aren't willing to wait the duration of time that film distribution used to require.  In a world of improving technology, media must also converge in order to meet the growing needs of the public, which Netflix seems to understand perfectly.  Netflix is always two steps ahead of its 'competitors,' who are so busy trying to catch up with the streaming site's innovative platform.  It is almost impossible to compete with Netflix, because no other streaming distribution service has been able to match it so far in providing such efficient and comprehensive services that are constantly evolving and improving based on consumer demand and satisfaction.  For example, Netflix has announced that the sequel to "Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon" will be distributed on the company's streaming sites the same day it is set to be released in IMAX theaters.  This business distribution models is appalling for many movie theater distributors, taken aback by this new kind of platform.  It will be interesting to see how this new kind of distribution tactic will contribute to the film's popularity. Also in the works are four "straight to Netflix" film productions starring Adam Sandler, which is a bold move on the established actor's part.  However, maybe this decision will spark a new trend in the way that actors decide to release their films.
 
So what is phase 2 in Netflix's master plan?...worldwide influence.  Netflix is quickly expanding to the European section of the globe, gaining markets in places such as Austria, Switzerland, Belgium, Germany, Luxembourg, and especially France.  However, this newfound foreign influence is only the beginning as Netflix begins its trek in international entertainment domination.  By 2020, it is expected that Netflix will garner 100 million international subscribers; an unprecedented number that will influence a whole new region of entertainment consumers.
 
Netflix is one of the biggest players in film production and distribution, completely altering the way that media is consumed.  Only time will tell the effects that this innovative company will have on the film industry as a whole, especially in regards to convergence of media related to distribution.  However, I think it is safe to say that the American public is caught in a Netflix daze, and many people can't wait to see what the company has in store for consumers, both domestically and internationally.
 
Stay tuned for the next posting which will be a basic "101" on how movies can now easily be streamed or downloaded.
 
 


Piracy in film?! R rated

http://www.forbes.com/sites/karstenstrauss/2013/03/06/tv-and-film-piracy-threatening-an-industry/
TV and Film Piracy: Threatening an Industry? (2013, March 6). Retrieved January 22, 2015, from
 http://www.forbes.com/sites/karstenstrauss/2013/03/06/tv-and-film-piracy-threatening-an-industry/


Forbes magazine is a biweekly American publication that reports on topics such as business, marketing, industry, and investment.  More specifically, some subfields within these areas of interest that might be explored include technological advances and modern communications.  This particular article from the popular news source's online magazine titled, "TV and Film Piracy: Threatening an Industry?", explains how popular piracy and free streaming resources made possible through modern technology may pose a threat to the film industry.  The real question is, how much do these free ways of viewing TV/film take away from the revenue collected by production and distribution companies within the industry?  Contrastingly, might these rapid and free streaming sources perpetuate revenue by allowing for more exposure that may incite a bigger fan base?  Let's take a closer look:

 

Important Quotes Explained...

 

 

1. "The pirates have outnumbered the watchdogs. If you don’t believe that, ask the watchdogs... The watchdogs can’t possibly keep up—they’re overrun like a hobbled survivors fleeing a horde of zombies on AMC’s 'The Walking Dead.'"
• This quote is not only fascinating, but also quite witty.  As new forms of technology inundate the media, the film industry is being attacked by free streaming services and piracy sites that are as predatory as flesh eating zombies.  Nowadays, the people looking to gain satisfaction from free streaming of movie content outweigh the number of workers attempting to profit from toil and labor within the film distribution, marketing, and production business.
2. "...it does seem fair to assume that not every pirated copy of an audiovisual work represents lost revenue to the content producer.”
• Of course, one must take into account that each piece of pirated film would not have necessarily been purchased by consumers in the first place.  It really makes you wonder whether the attention and recognition garnered through free streaming and piracy compensates for the revenue lost in the film industry by these same means.
3. " In a business where recognition of your work, your name and your face is paramount, free streaming is just another way of upping your visibility."
• It is evident that the bottom feeders in the film industry food chain suffer far greater than film officials do from losses caused by streaming services and piracy sites.  After all, big name directors and actors will profit enormously from their work in film despite setbacks caused by technological 'inconveniences.' such as these  In fact, the director of the critically acclaimed television program, "Game of Thrones", is thankful for all the extra exposure that free streaming offers to the show.  In  his opinion, it helps to create a culture and additional fan following that otherwise would not have been created without this extra coverage.

To Keep it Simple...

The threat that piracy sites and streaming resources pose on the film distribution and production industry isn't as clean cut as it may seem.  After all, with advances in technology exponentially on the rise, the way we ethically consume media is entering a gray area.  It is hard to determine whether piracy is directly correlated with loss of revenue, because the question remains whether these consumers would have purchased the viewing of film/TV content if it had not been offered for free through streaming services, or at a bargain deal in the black market.  The answer to this lies somewhere between the scope of a intellectual property lawyer and an economist. 

 

Regardless, even the slightest of marginal losses in revenue will wind up being detrimental to workers at the lowest ranks in the industry.  Piracy is not only illegal, but also unstoppable, and hazardous in the sense that it keeps companies within the industry from making optimal amounts of money.  Loss in revenue means a smaller number of jobs, and lower salaries for those who work in the film/TV distribution and production industries.  Fortunately for the actors and directors behind motion picture productions, the effects of piracy aren't felt as acutely.  Even so, not everyone is as fortunate...

 

However, there is a Brightside to all this piracy and free streaming nonsense, which provides hope for the film industry in the midst of all these problems that new entertainment technologies ensue.  Hubs of subscribed video streaming content such as Netflix, vimeo, and Hulu are slowly but surely decreasing the prevalence of piracy within society.  Of course, these legitimate streaming sites will not totally eradicate the problem, nor will they completely wipe out sources that offer streaming for no charge.  The good news is that piracy issues are being addressed, and technological advancements have allowed for legal streaming services to take over as the preferred type of media consumption, while simultaneously providing more payback for film distributors and producers.

 

 

So is piracy truly threatening the film industry?  Perhaps in a certain regard it is, but at the same time, it has led to streaming sites such as Netflix and hulu.  These sources up the exposure-game for deserving media content, and create a larger fan base for many film and television programs that would otherwise have not been viewed.  In the end of the day, maybe the film industry had to suffer an initial loss in revenue in order to gain much more in the long run.

 

 

Stay tuned for the next posting which will provide a case study on subscription streaming sites as related to film distribution.  Streaming sources are a recent phenomenon in the film entertainment industry and... I mean... who doesn't love Netflix or Amazon prime nowadays?...

 

 

 



BitTorrent to the Rescue: Case Study on the Sony Hacking Scandal

http://deadline.com/2014/12/bittorrent-offers-to-distribute-the-interview-sony-attack-1201331011/
Yamato, J. (2014, December 19). BitTorrent To Sony: Let Us Distribute 'The Interview' Retrieved January 12, 2015, from http://deadline.com/2014/12/bittorrent-offers-to-distribute-the-interview-sony-attack-1201331011/

Deadline.com is a hub of information regarding all things Hollywood, in particularly the film industry that garners a large amount of media attention.  Everything from motion pictures to television, awards to film business, box office information, videos, and even international breaking news regarding entertainment, this site has it all!  In this particular article from Deadline.com titled, "BitTorrent to Sony: Let us Distribute 'The Interview,'" the unlikely potential partnership between Sony and BitTorrent Distribution is discussed.  In the wake of North Korea's hacking scandal on Sony's prematurely released blockbuster, "The Interview," the huge media conglomerate doesn't have a sufficient means of distributing without piracy sites gaining control over the movie.  Fortunately for Sony, relatively new and innovative company "BitTorrent" isn't afraid to get hands on this controversial film and distribute it in the safest way, while allowing both companies to profit off this satisfactory deal. 

Quotes and Explanations:

1. “We have reached out (to Sony) on a number of fronts,” ... “It seems like no one else wants to touch this, but for us this about the two things we care about most: an open Internet and a sustainable future for creativity. This is bigger than this film at this point. As a company, we feel we have no choice but to help Sony Pictures and defend these principles.” --BitTorrent Chief Content Officer Matt Mason
• While many modern distribution technologies, such as Netflix and vimeo, are refusing to go near a film as controversial as "The Interview," BitTorrent embraces the challenge.  The plight that Sony underwent in this hacking terrorist scandal, caused by the politically incorrect plot content of the film, is just what BitTorrent claims to combat.  The principle of the BitTorrent enterprise lies in  a decentralized, uncensored internet where both producers and consumers of media mutually interact and benefit from these new technological connections.  Creators of BitTorrent picture a distribution industry where people are free to create what they want, without fearing whether it may be released or not, and what this distribution of content will lead to.
2. "Though we normally would not offer commentary during such a trying time for another company, the answer is yes. BitTorrent Bundle is in fact the very best way for Sony to take back control of their film, to not acquiesce to terrorists threats, and to ensure a wide audience can view the film safely. It would also strike a strong note for free speech."--BitTorrent director of communications Christian Averil
• There is a bigger dilemma that is inherent within the recent hacking scandal that took place. As a dominant American distribution company succumbs to threats posed by a terrorist group, based on the film's controversial content, freedom of speech is threatened.  While Sony set a precedent nationwide by giving in to terrorist groups and not releasing the film, the actions of Sony as a business were understandable.  Regardless, BitTorrent is the most beneficial way for "The Interview" to be distributed without putting the lives of producers and distributors at risk.  Not only does BitTorrent encourage safety and profit for the parties involved, but it solidifies the right of free speech that was put into question during these recent events.
3. "We disagree, however, with some that have suggested that Sony should make the film available through piracy sites. That would only serve to encourage bad actors. It’s also important to make the distinction that these piracy sites are not “torrent sites.” They are piracy sites that are wrongfully exploiting torrent technology."--Christian Averil
• In this quote, director of communications for BitTorrent attempts to define the major differences between BitTorrent and common piracy sites.  Although piracy sites take advantage of torrent technology, the two types of distribution are in no way related.  BitTorrent stems from pure motives in fostering the spread of media content in a way that benefits both producer and consumer, while piracy sites attempt to take home the profit for other people's work. 

So what is it about "The Interview" that generated so much controversy?...

To Keep It Simple...

Seth Rogen and James Franco's newest film, "The Interview", is a raucous comedy surrounding a TV personality as he is ordered by the American CIA to "take out" the North Korean dictator (Kim Jong Un) during a televised interview.  Although the uproariously funny dynamic stoner duo did not expect such an extreme backlash from the inhabitants of North Korea, the hilarious yet controversial subject matter in the film incited one of the biggest hacking scandals in film history.  Sony distribution company, which was set to release the film on Christmas day, was hacked by a terrorist group which threatened violence upon the film's upcoming release.  In the aftermath of these unexpected events, Sony decided to pull the release of the much anticipated film, and many theaters agreed with this decision.  Unfortunately for Sony and the parties involved in the production of the film, however, the movie was still able to be viewed through many piracy sites and other illegal forms of distribution which can hardly be stopped on the decentralized web.

Many distribution sites and programs, such as Netflix, vimeo, hulu, and Amazon Prime, refused to go near "The Interview" in the wake of these scandalous events.  However, there is a chance that BitTorrent may come to the rescue and save Sony in the distribution of their prematurely released film.  BitTorrent is excited and eager to work with sony in distributing "The Interview", by generating profit for the company which lost a good amount of revenue due to terrorist threats.  More importantly, BitTorrent executives believe that by releasing "The Interview" using BitTorrent software, they will be standing up for freedom of speech.  Many reports show that Sony is hesitant to work with BitTorrent, a company that has often been associated with forms of piracy.  Even so, it seems like BitTorrent is attempting to save Sony from the threats that piracy and terrorism impose on the film industry, especially by upholding the right to release content that, although controversial, is in no way dangerous or threatening.

                                       Here's what Obama has to say about the whole brouhaha...

In a recent press conference, President Obama was noted for describing the entire movie as "a mistake."  However, one can only wonder why other films that were equally politically incorrect did not receive this kind of backlash from the government.  Films such as "Tropic Thunder", "Don't Mess with the Zohan", "The Love Guru", and particularly "Borat" contained cultural implications that had just as much likelihood of receiving terrorist threats upon release.  Was Barack Obama's opinion on "The Interview" merely based on public exposure?...In other words, is this preference toward censorship based on what the American public wants and expects or, on the contrary, acquiescing to the demands of terrorist groups in foreign nations? How much should we allow the preferences of the public to affect media, and what does this kind of censorship reveal about the film industry in general?