It was difficult for me to really appreciate much of the Jenkins article. I have never been exposed to The Matrix franchise though my boyfriend has been meaning to force me into watching the trilogy. However, I did understand much of what Jenkins said about transmedia storytelling. In a way, transmedia storytelling can be seen as an advertising campaign for a certain franchise.
For those who have not taken an advertising or marketing class, an advertising campaign is defined as “a series of coordinated advertisements and other promotional efforts that communicate a single theme or idea” (O’Guinn). In the case of The Matrix franchise, the promotional efforts are made through the creation of the movie trilogy, web comics, animes, and computer games. Transmedia storytelling is being widely used in the entertainment industry today. The article points to Pokemon and Yu-Gi-Oh! as very good examples. Pokemon is not only a TV show, but also a children’s card game, manga, and a very successful video game series. There are also currently 11 Pokemon movies.
Transmedia storytelling does not have to be limited to movies, TV shows, and children’s card games. In the case of the Harry Potter franchise, the transmedia storytelling has expanded into a theme park in Universal Studios Orlando. Effective advertising? I would say so.
Many movie companies are picking up on successful novels and turning them into popular franchises. Harry Potter is one example along with the ever popular Twilight. Next will be Suzane Collins’ The Hunger Games.
Transmedia storytelling is a very widespread practice in the world of popular media. It can compare to an advertising campaign in the business world. Taking advantage of the many entry points in the entertainment industry can really boost a franchise and intrigue consumers. Using different medias to appeal to different consumers can help to guarantee a massive following.
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