At the recent Consumer Electronics Show (CES), Google co-founder, Larry Page, put on a little presentation of what’s new for them. Something he mentioned was Google Video. To use Google’s own words:
Google Video is the world’s first open online video marketplace where you can search for, watch and buy an ever-growing collection of TV shows, movies, music videos, documentaries, personal productions and more.
I would like to draw your attention to the words: personal productions. You see, not only can you buy TV shows (US only) from the major networks, anyone can upload content, either to share free, or you can charge for it (this feature looks to be on hold for the general public at the time of writing). About this time last year I wrote about the possibility of ordinary people producing TV-show-style productions with relatively little budget on another of my sites, I was thinking that maybe people could upload the films and collect monies through something like PayPal. Google Video has stepped up and could, I think, do for video what iTunes has done for independent music. What they may end up providing is exactly what the studios have been having wet dreams about: a direct route to market with almost 100% return. No need to pay for DVD printing, cover designs, marketing, shipping or the retailers cut, just reap the profits.
The great part is more for independent film-makers, people who can’t get production deals, or afford to employ distribution companies, get prints done or who are shooting content that has a limited market. I can definitely see a situation where people upload films and, through a website and word of mouth, generate enough money to make a return.
I may be a little ahead of the game, but I see exciting times ahead.
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