The Digital Revelation
June 11, 2008
I remember when, just a few years ago, everyone was throwing around the word “convergence.” It was definitely the hot concept. Even though I suspect no one really knew what it meant…or would mean.
Suddenly, technology has become a HUGE part of our industry. Given how slowly the film biz can move, it’s truly amazing to see this abrupt shift happening. It used to be calling something “digital” was a sneer. Now, it’s a rallying cry.
This change doesn’t just affect the movies we make and where we watch TV shows. The ripple effect is felt right through the press. From how fast people expect to see reviews to online discussion of the latest buzz in the biz, online content offers amazing flexibility. At a fraction of the cost.
Just like with films, it was only a few short years ago that Internet credentials at a film festival would get begrudging validation. Now, the major trades and the major film mags have reps who write online. Film audiences expect to see content available fast. And they want their say.
It’s an exciting time that I plan to explore more on this blog. And I can’t wait to hear what you think!
Life is Like Juggling Bar Stools
June 3, 2008
Oh my. Sometimes life just explodes and all you can do is hold on and pray you don’t get too scratched up. That’s a pretty accurate picture of what May felt like for me.
Let me explain. Most writers prefer to have one medium in which to show off their talents. It makes sense - you get to master your voice in a specialized space. I have a slightly different approach to writing. Really, it’s an addiction.
Which means, I write in many mediums. Magazines & newspapers. Screenplays & TV. Technology & communications. And now, drumroll please…video games! I was selected for an inaugural program to take fiction and non-fiction writers and school them in linear and non-linear storytelling. This “bootcamp” (I kid you not) was amazing, intense, and a major eye-opener. Even for this diverse writer.
In the ever-evolving space of digital media, my choice seems less strange to people. TV and Internet blur into webisodes. Journalism and opinion blur into blogging. Film and desperate need for exposure blur into YouTube.
In fact, in the land of journalism, the debate rages about whether blogs can be considered “true” journalism. That matters less to me than whether people are geniunely interested in what others have to say — evolving a discussion into exciting cultural phenomena and movements.
And that’s what writing is for me: capturing and expressing events relevant to human beings. No matter what format I use.
