Virtual reality came a long way from being used in exclusively significant facilities to be often and gladly seen inside homes. Actually, the fast development of Virtual reality made a quite number of people familiar with the benefits of having a VR device on hand.
Furthermore, by each passing day, Virtual reality continues the advancement in the dynamic field of technology. Virtual reality technology even went through an enormous transformation from a science-medium to a tool for changing the way we perceive the world. After all, Virtual reality has been here for decades, although many believe that VR is a recent trend.
WHAT IS VIRTUAL REALITY
As a ‘computer-simulated reality,’ Virtual Reality, or simply VR, simulates the presence of the users into an imagined and realistic environment, where the user can be able to make physical interaction with that setting, or simply just be there for the ride. So, what is Virtual Reality? Basically, VR is an artificially shaped sensory environment with experiences: moving, hearing, sight, and touch.
As you know, before VR took over and showed everyone new and existing dimensions and worlds, people had television to immerse themselves into the unknown. Moreover, they used video to travel and explore.
Interestingly, the most loved form of content on television were movies. However, Virtual reality, compared to television, offers an entirely different experience than the motion picture does. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that people started wondering if, in the near future, human civilization actually witnesses VR pushing television from the game entirely? Or If there is a mutual point between VR and movies?
The truth is that virtual reality gave so much to numerous industries, including the movie industry. But the way we watch movies today is already changing. As virtual reality trends and technology are evolving, storytelling goes way beyond the traditional way of telling the tale.
MODERN WAYS OF DELIVERING CONTENT
As everything changes today and shapes around content, the needs of consumers are changing equally. Therefore, the needs of consumers are growing. So, it shouldn’t be surprising that new ways of delivering experiences and content are trending. Even Mark Zuckerberg, showed everyone VR avatars (at Oculus Connect 3) with realistic body language and emotional responses, making it clear that people want more: more reality.
No wonder that filmmakers stepped in as well and created new ways of delivering content. After all, innovative ways of delivery are always wanted and necessary to keep the audience interested.
However, the crucial thing when it comes to virtual reality and movies is that: virtual reality is not yet at the stage to completely substitute traditional TV and Cinema for delivering the ‘movie’ content. But it does hold significant potential to disrupt the TV and Cinema industry and the way we experience movies.
For example: A virtual reality headset is comfortable for watching 3D movies and may provide a better experience than the most advanced cinemas.
VIRTUAL REALITY AT FILM FESTIVALS
Ever since leaders from the film industry realized that they could use Virtual reality to deliver more engaging content, the landscape of festivals started changing. Suddenly, Virtual reality became an asset in the movie world. There were a few film festivals in 2019 hosted specifically for movies that were shown exclusively in VR!
Furthermore, a Virtual reality movie ‘Dear Angelika’ was first played at the Sundance movie festival, and according to many, it was both a technical achievement and a sign that filmmakers are taking a brave step toward the new ways of expression. But why was this approach so important? Because virtual reality enables the viewer to be in the middle for the story.
The next stop for VR was Tribeca Immersive in 2018, while one of the most important and earliest steps was London’s Raindance Film Festival in 2013.
WHAT THE FUTURE HOLDS?
Virtual reality enables movies to deliver more. Definitely, movie experiences will not be limited to the visual and the auditory senses. They will sky-rocket to create a full sensory experience where our five senses are used. Whether the movie industry finally fully accepts VR or not, the audience’s needs will prevail. Consumers want a better experience that is more engaging, comfortable, and affordable.
Even now, there are ways to experience Movies in VR, using a variety of devices that are available. People have already been watching movies using Samsung Gear VR. There are also dedicated websites and services, like CineVR that allow users to download an app suitable for their device, and then to enter the VR cinema! If you own an HTC Vive, you can try it on Steam.
So yes, VR is changing the way we watch movies even now. Watching movies in VR is already here, and it is only going to get better. Now, we don’t think it is going to send the modern cinema to the retirement home any time soon, we believe it is only going to expand the way the consumers experience cinema and movies.
Now with this technology, even the astronauts on the ISS won’t need to miss their favorite movie, just because they’re in space!
If you have an idea for a VR app, or would like to make your own VR cinema, don’t hesitate to CONTACT US, and we can make the magic happen!
