Unlike the first few chapters, I really enjoyed and understood the recent chapters that we read. I was finally able (I think) to get a grasp on what trans-media storytelling actually is, and I think that is because they explained it in a way which seemed normal to me. When they actually explained it in terms of a story, including the conflict, rising action and conclusion, I was able to actually grasp the concept. Using this breakdown allowed me to make a diagram in my head and actually relate it to storytelling.
Not only are this things important in actual storytelling, like writing a book, but I can really see where they apply to the realm of trans-media storytelling. It is all about getting your audience hooked on your "product" and engulfing them within a story. It is about making sure that a customer knows the ins and outs of whatever business or product you are trying to promote.
One example of this that has really stood out for me would be the story of Captain Richard Phillips. For hose unable to think back a few years, he was the boat captain that was captured by Somali pirates and eventually saved his crew and escaped. Captain Phillips is actually a close family friend and it was interesting for me to see the media around this story evolve. Originally, it was just new broadcasts. In recent years this story has become a feature film, websites along with a book and many speaking engagements on Captain Phillips' behalf. It is interesting to see how his identity and story have been shared over different platforms in a way to tell his story to a number of different audiences.
The thing that I find most interesting is that through this approach, we as consumers can become so closely tied to products or businesses, that it helps us to form our own opinions about things. We are inundated with these stories so much so that at times it is hard to decipher what we are being advertised. It becomes commonplace for us. Personally, I would much rather be told a story about a product or business than a straight advertisement, but then it gets difficult at times to filter out the advertisements in your life to actually see the truth behind things. This is where I think media literacy really comes into play.
I think your example of Captain Phillips describes transmedia well. And it must have been super interesting for you to watch his story progress into what it has become.
ReplyDeleteThis is why the story telling aspect of transmedia is so important. For those who do not know his story, they can find out different things about him and his life by using different platforms. I also agree with you on the fact you would rather be exposed to a story rather than a straight up advertisement, but that the lines would become blurred and confusing.
I agree with you that this chapter was the most clear in the way of explaining what transmedia story telling is. I loved your example of Captain Phillips. People don't tend to think of news events as being transmedia but, as you explained, real events that have an impact in society can certainly turn into a transmedia story. I also agree with you that I would rather be told a story than a straight advertisement. I think it allows you to form more of a connection with a product. If we understand what stories are advertisements then I think it's fine. I agree that media literacy is important when it comes to this form of media.
ReplyDeleteI don't know why my name is not showing up, but this comment is from Amanda O'Neill
DeleteI agree that I would rather watch a story than a straightforward advertisement. Advertisements can be boring and make it feel like a product is just being forced on you, which is why I usually don’t fall for them. Though that does make it difficult to filter out advertisements in everyday life if technically any story can be an ad.
ReplyDeleteBreaking News Events can be seen as prime examples for transmedia storytelling, specifically feature films. True events have the power to touch people across many different audiences. Even though movies are essentially products, you purchase the ticket so you can connect with and experience the story.
ReplyDelete