Monday, 4/20 : Interactivity

SUMMARY

The reading for today aims to define and go into detail about the idea of media interactivity. “Interactivity” is defined as new media that allows a two-way flow between the user and software. Media can be separated into two major piles: media that is interactive and media that is not. But the definition is tricky. Some would view television as not interactive because you’re simply sitting on the couch watching a screen. On the other hand, it’s argued that just by watching the content, a viewer is having to come up with ideas, beliefs, and opinions, meaning the content is in fact interactive. Another significant part of this definition is the idea behind “control” and a user’s ability to decide what happens, for example a video game.

OUTSIDE EXAMPLE

As a fan of Netflix’s Black Mirror, I was absolutely stoked about the release of Bandersnatch, the first film to come from the series. This was in 2018, and a movie like this was yet to be released, especially on an online platform. The movie itself begins, and then suddenly, you as the user, are asked to make a decision for the character. It’s a simple choice, but as the film progresses you realize every choice you’re making is significant to the plot. The cereal you made the character eat that morning can send you down a completely different path than if you had chosen the other option. It was the first movie I’d ever seen where I, the viewer, was in complete control of how the movie went.

CONNECTION

In the reading, the debate about film and television really stumped me. I try almost every time I turn on the TV to really take in and analyze what I’m watching, so I believe for me it would be interactive. But when I look at my sister, who sleeps to the sound of That 70’s Show, I can see how the definition could not fit that situation. With Bandersnatch specifically, you cannot argue that it isn’t interactive. It’s a purely interactive film product. You have to be alert and tuned in to what is happening, or the story simply stops. But I would say this is one of the only types of films that can be certainly defined as interactive. All other media products are up in the air.