The rising popularity of “made-for-the-web” video shows, such as quarterlife, may be the creative outlet show writers, struggling for recognition, or a way to put their work in front of audiences, are looking for.
Independent “web series” productions are starting to gain popularity around the world. These programs, specifically created for online viewing, might appeal to writers as a way to work with fewer limitations. US producer and writer Edward Zwick says individual creativity is often compromised by commercial productions. “The business of television today makes it harder for the individual filmmaker’s voice to be heard,” he says in a media statement about his new online show, quarterlife.
“Webisodes” are typically shorter, being of five to ten minutes duration, and often feature far few ads, than mainstream TV broadcasts.
And Battlestar Galactica fans may be delighted to learn about the recent production of a series of minisodes based on the popular science fiction show.
The future was exposed partially brought on by the writers strike, online video content is the way of the future for the present day audiences around the world, as the world has become revolved around the click of a button. As stated above these webisodes are shorter with far fewer ads making for a better viewer experience.
Shows such as Quarterlife, Sanctuary, LonelyGirl15, and Roommates have slowly started to capture audiences on a global scale. Just as satellite radio came in commercial free it has slowly brought in more and more users each year, online video audiences have started to grow. Which is why for the first time ever, The Academy of Television Arts and Sciences is giving these Broadband Distributed Content Primetime Emmy consideration.
I work for the Academy so I have the inside scoop. You should check out the website at http://www.emmys.com for more info. For the first time ever online videos appear to have a voice and so they should. Whats your take on this? Do you think the Broadband Distributed Content deserves an Emmy?