Web series

Definition

A web series is a series of scripted or unscripted videos released on the internet, typically consisting of multiple episodes. These series can vary in length and format, often catering to specific audiences and genres. They are often produced independently or by smaller companies, allowing for diverse storytelling that may not fit traditional media formats.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Web series can be accessed on various platforms, including YouTube, Vimeo, and dedicated streaming services like Netflix and Hulu.
2. They often have lower production costs compared to traditional television series, allowing for innovative and experimental storytelling techniques.
3. Web series provide opportunities for emerging filmmakers and writers to showcase their work without the need for traditional studio backing.
4. Many web series have gained critical acclaim and substantial followings, leading to transitions into mainstream media or even adaptations into feature films.
5. The episodic format of web series allows for serialized storytelling, giving creators the chance to develop characters and plots over multiple episodes.

Review Questions

• How do web series differ from traditional television series in terms of production and distribution?
  • Web series differ from traditional television series primarily in their production and distribution methods. Web series are often produced with lower budgets and can be created by independent filmmakers, allowing for greater creative freedom and diverse narratives. Additionally, they are distributed online, which makes them accessible to a global audience without the restrictions of network programming schedules.
• Discuss the impact of web series on the landscape of modern storytelling and audience engagement.
  • Web series have significantly impacted modern storytelling by introducing new formats and fostering direct engagement between creators and audiences. The flexibility of online platforms allows for niche content that caters to specific interests, resulting in a more engaged viewer base. Additionally, the ability for audiences to interact with creators through social media has transformed how stories are marketed and shared, creating a participatory culture around web series.
• Evaluate the role of crowdfunding in the production of web series and its implications for independent creators in the digital age.
  • Crowdfunding plays a crucial role in the production of web series by providing independent creators with necessary financial support while maintaining creative control over their projects. This funding model empowers creators to bring unique stories to life without relying on traditional studios, thereby diversifying the types of narratives available in the digital space. The success of crowdfunded web series often showcases the potential for sustainable indie filmmaking in a landscape dominated by large production companies.

Related terms

Streaming: The continuous transmission of audio or video files from a server to a client, allowing users to consume content without downloading it first.

Viral Content: Content that becomes widely popular and spreads rapidly through social media and other online platforms, often driving significant viewer traffic.

Crowdfunding: A method of raising funds for a project by collecting small amounts of money from a large number of people, often via the internet.