The word Transmedia is fairly new. Most people remember the terms cross-platform, media franchising, multi-platform storytelling. The new term envelopes the concepts of newer media just coming out- verticals, micro-blogging, niche driven social media, and more established formats out there as well. One thing is- media is king of the hill.
The idea of transmedia seems to be a bit overwhelming to some people. People normally think in one way- but consume in multiple formats. As someone who writes novels, comics, feature films/teleplays, and more- it’s a natural thing for me to think big.
Let’s talk about the most visible crossplatform/transmedia concepts out now—
Marvel- comics, books, movies, graphic novels, TV series. Their products can stand alone and join together as per the MCU portion of things. Comics are even created to reflect movie releases.
DC- comics, books, graphic novels, movies/tv shows, animated movies. Some are linked, some are not. The new Gunn reboot has revitalised their movies, though their animated movies have been top notch for decades!
The Last of Us— the video game made into a series. There’s a script book coming out(I need it!), OST(original soundtrack)and franchising happening for promotion.
Comic creators are crossing over into movie and TV— example, Vagrant Queen on SyFy was based on a comic series by Vault comics. I highly recommend the comics if you’ve not read them and the series(one season) is worth watching.
Housemaid was a book series turned into a movie. The ending is different in the book. I actually read the series a while back- so go Frieda McFadden!
Sonic the Hedgehog- video games, movies, comics, and books.
Same for Mario - video games, movies, books, comics.
So- if people look at you funny when you use the word “transmedia,” try cross-platform, media franchising— see the eyes light up.
I’ll post how to start your transmedia ideas in another post sometime in the next few days. It’s both easier than you think- and you may have the tools already at your fingertips.
2 people like this
I've been learning about transmedia on Stage 32, but I want to learn more about it, Cynna Ael. I like cross-platform better than transmedia. I know what cross-platform means right away when I hear it. Thanks for making the post. I'm looking forward to your other post!
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Maurice Vaughan Thanks! I tend to use cross-platform more often because to me, you're actually crossing to other mediums with the IP universe itself- not just one story. One of my favourite ways to establish IP and make it fun is a one page comic. What does it do? It doesn't need to be coloured- it can be black and white- but by doing a one page comic- you can put it on your blog, your website, whatever and create a public short story version of any story in your IP. Plus, it's cheaper to get the comic made. One thing I will tell people as someone in indie comics-- get a professional letterer. It makes a difference.
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You're welcome, Cynna Ael. I like your one page comic idea! Thanks for the idea and tips!