Audience Genre Expectations in the Age of Digital Media

The study aims to bridge the gap between critical aesthetics and audience expectations in film and television studies by examining a comprehensive data-set from a national survey. It reflects on the impact of the pandemic on viewing patterns and genre and format expectations.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 21 October 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The aim of this study is to bridge the gap between scholarly work on critical aesthetics and audience expectations in the realm of film and television studies. By drawing on a comprehensive and original data-set from a national survey that examined audience perceptions of film genres and television formats, associated viewing patterns, and the current usage of streaming and other newer moving image adjuncts, the study seeks to shed light on the complex interplay between these two aspects of media consumption.

The survey encompassed a diverse range of respondents, including individuals from various age groups, socioeconomic backgrounds, and geographic locations, ensuring a representative sample of the U.S. population. The data collected included information on respondents' preferences for different film genres and television formats, their viewing habits, and their attitudes towards streaming and other newer moving image adjuncts.

One of the key findings of the study is that there is a significant divide between scholarly work on critical aesthetics and audience expectations in relation to film and television studies. While critical aesthetics focuses on the artistic and intellectual qualities of media, audience expectations are more concerned with the entertainment value, narrative structure, and character development of media. The study suggests that this divide can lead to misunderstandings and miscommunication between scholars and audiences, as well as limit the potential for meaningful engagement with media.

To address this gap, the study proposes several strategies. First, it emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, bringing together scholars from different fields such as film studies, media studies, and audience research to better understand the complex relationship between critical aesthetics and audience expectations. Second, the study suggests that media producers and distributors should be more mindful of audience expectations when creating and marketing media, taking into account the diverse range of preferences and interests of viewers. Third, the study calls for more research on the impact of streaming and other newer moving image adjuncts on audience perceptions and expectations, as these technologies are rapidly changing the way we consume media.

Reflecting on the impact of the pandemic on viewing patterns and genre and format expectations, the study suggests that the pandemic has had a significant impact on media consumption. With many people confined to their homes and relying on streaming services for entertainment, there has been a shift towards more diverse and inclusive content, as well as a greater emphasis on the emotional and psychological impact of media. However, the pandemic has also led to a decline in traditional television viewing, as many people have turned to streaming services for their entertainment needs.

In conclusion, this study aims to bridge the gap between scholarly work on critical aesthetics and audience expectations in the realm of film and television studies. By drawing on a comprehensive and original data-set, the study provides valuable insights into the complex interplay between these two aspects of media consumption. The study suggests that interdisciplinary collaboration, mindful media production, and more research on the impact of streaming and other newer moving image adjuncts are key to promoting meaningful engagement with media and overcoming the divide between critical aesthetics and audience expectations.

Weight: 444g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032201313