The significant rise in OTT platforms disrupted the entertainment industry as more consumers started opting for over-the-top entertainment from the comfort of their homes. While we were all forced to stay indoors due to the pandemic, hunger for quality content went to an all time high. This, coupled with the ever increasing usage of connected devices, catapulted the shift from traditional media to OTT. With extensive offers from mobile operators, these days you can even avail free OTT subscriptions with a postpaid SIM or a new SIM.
What are OTT Platforms?
Over-the-top streaming is a media service that provides viewers with a wide range of content through various platforms like broadcast, internet or satellite television. The significant rise in OTT mediums can be attributed to many factors like convenience, comfort, ease of access, etc. But the true contributor to this paradigm shift is the Covid19 pandemic, which changed the content consumption habits of many consumers.
Charm of Theatres:
Many movie-goers remain true to their first love and prefer going the full mile for the authentic feel as well as vibe theatres provide. Movie buffs might argue that the magic big screens bring to a movie might be lost on OTT platforms. The gripping experiential entertainment along with the hospitality and relaxation offered by multiplexes is something they enjoy.
The real debate:
● OTT platforms provide a wider audience and growth in revenue to small budget films as well as access to films across various genres or languages.
● The charm and vibe of big blockbuster films with animation and graphics might get diminished on OTT.
● Theatres offer a beautiful cinematic experience with all the glitz and glam, gourmet food or beverage offerings and automated kiosks.
● Whereas with OTT mediums you can happily stream from the comfort of your home even in your PJ’s!
● OTT platforms provide ease of access and affordability as anyone with a decent mobile phone, laptop or connected TV with an internet connection can watch any content of their choice.
● Theatres allow friends and family to come together to experience an extravagant outing.
Rather than pitting these formats against each other, we can agree to enjoy the fundamental differences they offer. While one offers daily entertainment on the go, the other provides a whole new packaged experience. However, the extent of a global pandemic has definitely made film makers rethink their content and adapt to newer ways.