Among the many, many interruptions through COVID-19, one relates to the content methods of media companies.
At a time when, traditionally, the chains multiply to release a new list of fall programs, they are trapped in limbo. They cannot run the maximum of the new systems they have in the spring due to coronavirus restrictions. Streamers and cable channels are in a similar position.
They took their reins off their hands, so to speak.
“COVID has reduced the ability of many media corporations to their ability to produce new content,” says CJ Bangah, PwC’s US director and television industry expert. “They can’t shoot in user or paintings like they used to in terms of social estrangement on set.”
Here are 3 inventions that media corporations have been looking for to create content and continue to attract the pandemic to the audience.
1. Meetings, meetings, meetings
Nothing makes as much noise as combining the cast of a once popular TV show. NBC organized two meetings, with the casts of Parks and Recreation and 30 Rock filming quarantine specials where the actors met Zoom.
“I don’t know that reunion will be trending, but it’s great, so new and great to see,” Bangah says. “Certainly, from the consumer’s point of view, it’s different to see actors interacting in the video.”
2. Monetization of old content
It’s a sublime way of saying that networks are relaying again. The DVR has killed repetition for years, however, with new content difficult to find, putting old screens back on the air or streaming them is a beneficial solution for everyone. Media corporations already own the rights and a new generation is familiar with those old screens.
3. Online transmission
With movie theaters in limbo with the pandemic, studios are sitting in a film rack. Studies related to a network or streamer have a choice.
“If they have a movie in the books and they’re making plans for a distribution in theaters, a company would possibly send that content to virtual channels,” Bangah says. Disney did this, with obvious success, with Hamilton.