SXSW: The Intersection of Film and Technology
AR and VR Take Center Stage at SXSW 2017
Technological advancements drive new models for the creation and consumption of creative content. This year, at South by Southwest (SXSW), the film and television industry once again demonstrated how its technological innovation benefits all content consumers and creators; and discussed how the ever-changing landscape is affecting content, distribution, exhibition, and audience experience.
Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) often sit at the forefront of the SXSW trade show. This year, SXSW launched its first dedicated VR section with a Virtual Cinema slate of the SXSW Film Festival and over 30 projects showcased. IMAX featured a panel on Hollywood and VR and international players discussed VR in theater, emphasizing the goal of creating immersive experiences.
At the festival, Life of Us took audiences to different virtual environments as they followed their evolution from primordial protozoa to modern man and beyond. Miyubi, a 40 minute VR film, gave audiences the chance to experience life as a robot. And Fistful of Stars showed off one of VR’s most powerful effects – the ability to create the illusion of vast space.
Major media outlets from across the country shared their thoughts on the new and exciting innovations. See what they’re saying here:
- Vanity Fair: How SXSW Gives TV and Film Fans a Completely Immersive Experience
- The Wrap: SXSW Film Fest Kicks Off Big With VR Everywhere…
- Forbes: As The World Of VR Descends On SXSW, Here Are Six Must-See Experiences
SXSW inspires audiences and creators to look ahead. The content, products, and innovations released during the festival continue to progress developments well beyond Austin, TX. Building beyond AR and VR, the world of interactivity is now becoming more prominent. The innovations featured this year at SXSW may help introduce a whole new moviemaking experience.
- The New Yorker: THE MOVIE WITH A THOUSAND PLOTLINES: Will interactive films be this century’s defining art form?
As the story above highlights, this is an exciting time for audiences. The possibilities in film are endless. From the original King Kong film, to the recently released Kong: Skull Island, the advancements we have seen in a relatively short time have been incredible. Now, with the opportunity for fully immersive, 10,000-possible ending films, audiences may be experiencing movies in a completely new way within our lifetime.
From 3D and green screens, to CGI and digital film, and now the increasing prominence of VR and AR in the theater, the technology and film and television industries continue to work together to bring audiences exciting films in thrilling new ways. SXSW showcases the best of the best and will continue to inspire creators everywhere.
Featured image from sxsw.com: Hollywood goes VR.