Online Interaction–Even During Movie Night?
As a result of the growing demand and availability of interactivity, people are now encouraged to add their two cents to just about everything. From news articles that append readers’ comments to art exhibits that showcase viewers’ opinions, no medium is sacred. Case in point: the new interactive DVD.
In a New York Times article this week entitled “Disney Taps Into Blu-Ray’s Interactive Technology“, Disney announced that it will utilize Blu-Ray’s “BD Live†technology to allow customers to interact during the classic film Sleeping Beauty. For example, people can watch the DVD at the same time as their friends are and chat back and forth. Also, parents can leave their kids messages by pre-recording and inserting their own footage throughout scenes in the film. You can also challenge others to movie trivia.
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| But is interactivity during movies something people want? Personally, the last thing I want during a movie is interaction, but then again I’m a big fan of the solo Sunday matinee. Still, aren’t most people annoyed by mid-movie gabbing? While catching a film festival at the IFC Center a few weeks ago, I was irritated when the guy in front of me stepped out to answer a call–twice. I want to break those brightly lit devices people use in dark theatres while texting. |
In the comfort of our own homes, do the rules change and we suddenly want virtual conversations with people down the street? Studios seem to be betting on it. Disney isn’t alone. Lion’s Gate and Sony plan to follow suit. These high priced DVDs are rolling out while the technology doesn’t yet come standard with most players. The Sony Playstation 3, however, can use it.
Maybe this added value of interactivity will help studios gain a competitive advantage over illegal street vendors. Anyone’s who has taken a ride on a public transit system recently knows that hackers record films in theatres and sell them the next day on the streets.
This is an interesting case of a feature companies are building before consumers demand it. Time will tell whether consumers will embrace the new technology, though past implementations indicate that more interaction between users is never a bad thing.
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You have me hooked! Thanks for telling me about the site – I love reading your posts! Very interesting point about companies building something before consumers demand it. What’s the saying? Necessity is the mother of invention; curiosity its sustenance. Anyway, loved the read – thanks.