Social media entertainment could be the future of the screen industry, so let’s not strangle it with regulation
As the Australian government begins its inquiry into the future of film and television content, it would do well to keep a close eye on social media stars, argues Queensland University of Technology’s Stuart Cunningham in this crossposting from The Conversation.
Until 2010, the pathway to success in the screen industry depended on convincing broadcasters and film producers to give to you airtime or production resources. These days, all you need is an internet connection and a laptop or smartphone.
A new creative industry has been born in the last decade called “social media entertainment”. It’s peopled by young entertainers and activists who you may never have heard of: Hank Green, Casey Neistadt, PewDiePie and Tyler Oakley.
These creators started out as amateurs, but have evolved into media professionals who make money from content they publish on social media platforms. They are incubating their own media brands, building global fan communities, and enhancing Australia’s profile among young people around the world.
