Robert N EmersonSnack Drama
March 27th 2008 05:26
In an increasingly fast paced world full of media proliferation, it's hardly surprising that television is starting to adapt. Until now, the most notable change had been the emergence of extended and online content.
However, a new product has entered the market - Short-form drama, also known as Snack drama. Snack drama is a new phenomenon of bite-sized shows, with episodes of under four minutes that are intended to be viewed online or on a mobile phone.
Like many burgeoning new-media concepts, Snack drama began with offerings by disgruntled producers whose efforts were shunned by the networks. Now, the television industry and mobile TV providers are lining up to get a taste of this newest treat.
Does short-form drama signal the end of hour-long shows? For the most part, doughnuts have yet to replace the meal of dinner, and crackers don't fill you up - they simply tide you over. I feel that Snack drama fills an emerging niche, but I sincerely hope that they do not usurp the position of lengthier, in-depth shows.
So, dear readers, what is your opinion of Snack drama? Do you like to steal a few mouthfuls here and there? Is it the answer to entertainment in a time-starved era? Or is it simply a symptom of decreasing attention-spans brought on by the technological age?
However, a new product has entered the market - Short-form drama, also known as Snack drama. Snack drama is a new phenomenon of bite-sized shows, with episodes of under four minutes that are intended to be viewed online or on a mobile phone.
Like many burgeoning new-media concepts, Snack drama began with offerings by disgruntled producers whose efforts were shunned by the networks. Now, the television industry and mobile TV providers are lining up to get a taste of this newest treat.
Does short-form drama signal the end of hour-long shows? For the most part, doughnuts have yet to replace the meal of dinner, and crackers don't fill you up - they simply tide you over. I feel that Snack drama fills an emerging niche, but I sincerely hope that they do not usurp the position of lengthier, in-depth shows.
So, dear readers, what is your opinion of Snack drama? Do you like to steal a few mouthfuls here and there? Is it the answer to entertainment in a time-starved era? Or is it simply a symptom of decreasing attention-spans brought on by the technological age?
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Comment by katyzzz
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Health Focus
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Comment by Nina
Comment by Kim L
Diving About
I think you hit the nail on the head with the hope that they don't 'usurp the position of lengthier, in depth shows'. How much characterisation and plot development can possibly be done in 4 minutes of show, when you need to grab people's attention, to attract viewers and stay alive??
Maybe comedy can work in this format. Or medical emergency/animal rescue type shows. Not so sure about drama though...
Comment by KylieW
Celebrity Obsession
I don't think that the snack drama thing is for me. I like something I can sit down and get into.......and I don't think I'll ever get into the tv on your mobile thing.
Comment by Mrs M
Mum's Word
This sounds like ABC Kids but for big people. They have 5 - 10 minute shows for kids because their attention span is short. As we grow older we're supposed to increase our attention span right?
I'm with Kylie...I don't think I'll ever get into tv on my mobile.
Love & stuff
Mrs M