There are all kinds of people making factual "content" in the world. There are filmmakers who desire to create epic cinematic exposes they hope get bums on seats at film festivals and there are those who exist to constantly pitch TV broadcasters with new, innovative ideas for TV series or "formats" (the kind of shows that get made and the formula is sold around the world, such as [Insert Country Here] Idol, MasterChef, the Block etc. But the mediums and modes are changing. No longer can we ignore those who make their name on the web. A "summer school" session this morning focused on those who'd found alternative routes to paving a career in film making. These were the grassroots types that didn't fit a mould, yet had created smash hit content in an alternative world. It was a refreshing change from the major broadcaster sessions that featured heavily in AIDC, all of which were interesting but also had the potential to make those new to the industry feel left out of the club.
UK YouTube videographer Alex Ross reminded everyone of how political satire can have a major impact in a short amount of time with his story of remixing / autotuning a British politicians "sorry" speech before it was released to the public. It went viral and was picked up as a major story by media outlets across the region, leading to Nick Clegg allowing for it to be released as a single.
Corey McCabee came at the net from a different angle. A musician, artist and actor, it appears as if McCabee has unwittingly become a darling of the alternative filmmaking fraternity in the US. He showed us how he develops a concept and just goes for it, using technology that is available and ignoring creative shackles of what's trending on tv or in society. He even sang us a song. Aside from his character Stingray Sam, Corey talked us through his creative process in developing a Sundance-commissioned short film for mobile phones. He talked about how the medium influenced his approach and played resulting video Reno. With its heavy drums and catchy cowboy song and dance will remain etched in memory forever. Play it, and see if it does the same for you.
