Can web 3.0 shape cinema 3.0? Towards community engaged independent film development and distribution

Abstract

ABSTRACT This article defines Cinema 3.0 in order to examine the opportunities for community-engaged film development and distribution. The emergence of Web 3.0 provides novel perspectives for filmmakers to realise independent screen productions. Through proposing Cinema 3.0, this article further develops Cinema 2.0 through decentralised approaches. The literature review indicates that more research is required in relation to independent film development and dissemination. This article will link Web 3.0, in particular decentralised approaches and applications, to independent filmmaking to explore how communities can support film projects. Through a case study approach, this article demonstrates the innovative potential of decentralised platforms. An imaginative and playful engagement with emerging technology is required to understand its limitations and how creativity can push our understanding about potential future scenarios for independent film. The argument is not that decentralised approaches will be the ‘holy grail’ for independent filmmaking, but for filmmakers this could provide an alternative to ‘get a project off the ground’ and reach audiences. Independent films are predominantly self-funded or crowdfunded and are often realised through the support of the wider community within which they operate. Decentralised platforms can further foster this support mechanism for independent filmmakers.