Where Film & Games Intersect: Cross-Platform Outcomes
In the past projects that have been successfully funded include the digital scoping of a TV documentary on the world’s future food supply called Seedhunter (made by Melbourne based 360 Degree Pictures). Seedhunter started its life as an award-winning documentary but now has a digital media component, an extension into an online community. The digital scoping fund allowed them to be matched up to a interactive media company that worked with them to produce a website that extended the life of the TV doco and allowed users to find out more information and keep up to date new additions to the Seedhunter story.
Video: What are some cross-platform projects that have been funded?
Other projects include prototype funding for a mobile-phone game called Ticklebum which will use touchscreen technology like that on the iPhone for gameplay and Swappler, an online marketplace and social network based on what you wear that allows you to swap with people globally.
What emerges is the importance of considering your traditional media object such as film or TV in the wider digital scope. It is imperative to have an understanding of the digital landscape and ways to ‘add value’ or extend your media object into an online space or anywhere where it can reach a wider audience or help your existing audience connect with your piece in extra ways. ABC and SBS for instance are increasingly demanding this digital component from their filmmakers, and that’s one of the reasons why the Scoping Fund from Film Victoria exists, to help filmmakers work with digital media firms and collaborate.
The idea of cross-platform outcomes is also becoming increasingly important where you stop thinking of your film or TV show in terms of broadcast and cinema only but across other digital platforms. An example of a successful show is ABC’s “Not Quite Art” which broadcast both on TV and online but recently saw that more viewers consume this show via podcasting than they do via TV broadcasting.
