Experiencing Cinema: Participatory Film Cultures, Immersive Media and the Experience Economy

Film is often watched rather than experienced, but Experiencing Cinema offers an in-depth study of participant engagement with a range of experiential media forms derived from cinema culture. It explores the lure and value of these popular events, from intimate community gatherings to blockbuster urban venues, and considers the growing demand for participatory cinema within the contemporary marketplace.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 248 pages
Publication date: 22 September 2022
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing Plc

Film is frequently perceived as a medium that is primarily consumed rather than actively experienced. Extensive research on film audiences and media reception, encompassing a broader spectrum, has unveiled the intricate tapestry of viewing practices and cultural contexts associated with cinema-going and the spaces in which it is presented.

In a groundbreaking exploration, "Experiencing Cinema" delves into the depths of participant engagement with a diverse array of experiential media forms that have emerged from the rich tapestry of cinema culture. This comprehensive audience study spans a wide spectrum of alternative film-going practices and immersive spaces, from intimate community gatherings to grand theatrical extravaganzas. It examines the allure and significance of these popular events, which often attract a diverse and intergenerational audience, ranging from early-adopter urban hipsters to DIY rural communities.

The book analyzes the growing demand for participatory cinema within the contemporary marketplace, alongside broader debates surrounding the shift away from traditional tiered seating arrangements and increased audience mobility. It explores the de-centering of the film text and its impact on the viewing experience.

Through a rich blend of empirical research, theoretical frameworks, and case studies, "Experiencing Cinema" offers a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the complex dynamics that shape participant engagement with experiential media forms derived from cinema culture. It sheds light on the ways in which these events foster social connections, cultural exchange, and personal transformation, contributing to the evolving landscape of media consumption and entertainment.

This groundbreaking work is a valuable resource for scholars, researchers, and enthusiasts alike, providing a deeper appreciation of the role of film in shaping our cultural experiences and the diverse ways in which we engage with it. It opens up new avenues for research and exploration, pushing the boundaries of our understanding of the power of media to create meaningful and immersive experiences.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781501374883