The digital age has brought about a scope of influence like never before. We can all recall just a few decades ago when the internet didn’t exist for the masses, and social media was unheard of. Now, it has become one of the main platforms for people to express themselves, and for businesses to promote their content.

The rise of social media also has profound influence in many industries. For instance, social media has had an impact on the entertainment industry. Since various social media platforms engage with consumers not only through text and pictures but through video, this says a lot about how the motion picture industry works to produce and market content.

According to Michael Luisi, an entertainment executive and producer based in California, there are many ways that social media has brought about change in the motion picture industry and vice versa. In this post, he will be dig into these issues.

Social media as a means to promote new films

We often hear of upcoming films on the big screen through movie trailers on TV, or posters we find in the cinema. However, there is an added platform to look for new trailers, which is through videos on social media.

Most movies have their own accounts or pages run by their digital marketing team. Before a movie’s official release, the marketing team can build anticipation on various social media platforms by making short teasers, promotions, and other forms of content to help build engagement.

According to Michael Luisi, this helps new films gain traction with maximum return on investment. Digital marketing through social media is also a great way for new filmmakers to introduce themselves, as well as promote independent films.

Battling film piracy on social media

We have to approach social media’s influence in the motion picture industry in an objective light. There is an ongoing problem with film piracy when individuals post full length movies on their social media accounts. Although there are measures to help prevent this such as copyright strikes, the problem is not entirely solved.

To help solve this problem, some outlets such as YouTube have subscription services wherein they offer films to watch for a monthly price. There are also various offers where users can watch older films in YouTube for a low price, ranging from $ 0.99 and above.

Film makers can earn more royalties through social media

Previously mentioned is the problem of film piracy in social media. However, this issue is a two-sided coin as there is also an opportunity for film makers to earn more royalties through social media. Users who don’t want to see a film on the big screen can opt to purchase and watch movies on various media platforms, which is revenue for both industries.

This is what some creators call a royalty price. Intellectual property in digital form such as music, text, or in the case of the film industry–videos, can still earn a portion of the income even when people only wish to access it through social media. Previously, royalties can only be earned through CDs, DVDs, and TV subscriptions. Now, film makers can earn more royalties through video sales on social media platforms.

Increased quality of films due to free video platforms

There are many publishers who create free content for their audience. They are ramping up the quality of their work without charging a cent. Overall, this benefits the development of industries as well as the audiences they serve.

People’s preference with convenient media

Along with a preference for free content, some audiences would also prefer staying indoors rather than going to cinemas to be entertained. They may also prefer short types of videos instead of full feature films. This could be considered a disadvantage for the film industry. However, there are solutions to help cater to audiences that prefer convenient media. Netflix, the video subscription giant, took advantage of this growing preference. People can now subscribe to services that feature a library of films and TV series that they can watch at the comfort of their own homes.

Technology also helps recreate the cinematic experience–there are now Smart TVs with highly sophisticated audio and video systems to help people enjoy movies while staying at home.

Lower barrier of entry for film makers

Just a few decades ago, conceptualizing a film and following through the whole plan was costly and time-consuming. You had to pitch your storyline and big idea to major film companies just to get noticed. However, this has changed somewhat with the rise of social media. Filmmakers can now independently publish their own content. They can post media on social media platforms such as Facebook and YouTube. This is an interesting shift in the film industry, lowering the barrier to entry for independent film makers. It is now easier to find talent and provide opportunities for those who show exceptional skills.

Social media themes in films

Another interesting change for both industries is the rise of themes relating to social media. There are now movies that revolve entirely around the use of video and messaging apps, which also mirrors the modern way of life.

Film makers are free to explore themes relating to social media such as online dating, cyber bullying, and internet privacy. They can also inject scenes where social media can be used as a means of communication.

These changes are just a hint of what is to come as film and social media continue to intertwine. Michael Luisi sees more promising developments as technology continues to accelerate with the development of these industries.