WGSA MAG Issue 15 (July 2013) | Page 95

Spike Lee Opens Up on Why He Turned to Kickstarter by SCOTT FOUNDAS source VARIETY
Playing catch-up
“ In SA, we do seem to be playing a game of catch-up with the rest of the world in terms of Internet infrastructure, but in terms of tech trends we are well up to speed. We live in a world that is so fast-paced and has resulted in us becoming so accustomed to instant gratification, that when it comes to sourcing content we have multiple platforms and devices that are at our disposal. However, because the Internet is such a vast portal of information, people don’ t necessarily know where to start looking. It is for this reason that there exists a need for a content aggregator, like AlternaTV, which will help people get the best of what they want from the Internet and entertainment industry. Online TV is certainly not something new, as the US and the UK have already comfortably settled into that trend. South Africa still has a lot to learn, though. So, yes, in some ways we are a bit early, but you either set the trend or you follow it,” said Nel.
The online space in South Africa has become a playground for brands and individuals alike, which has more and more people embracing the endless possibilities that online media offers. Digital and online media is a very interactive and instantaneous medium that is bridging divides and making the global village, as we know it, a whole lot smaller.
Greater options for creating interactive content
Not only is online media a great two-way communication channel for brands to interact with their target market, but it also provides them with greater options for creating interactive content, which facilitates conversation and builds brand loyalty. Most advertisers are looking for fresh and unique ways of targeting prospective clients, and viewing this within the context of AlternaTV, this can easily be done by creating bespoke shows around their products or brands.“ We have, for example, teamed up with online dating giants Fabulous Matches( www. fmdating. co. za) and created a bespoke new dating show that will see dating in South Africa, especially through an online platform, a popular and safe alternative,” Nel added. By incorporating brands within the structure of an online TV show, coupled with the real-time Twitter and Facebook interaction whilst a show is airing, AlternaTV has an attractive model for both content creators and advertisers alike.
With Internet access becoming a lot more accessible and affordable across SA, people will be able to access AlternaTV at a time and place that is convenient for them. AlternaTV is available on any device with an Internet connection, including, but not limited to: mobile devices, computers, laptops, tablets, and Smart Television.

Spike Lee Opens Up on Why He Turned to Kickstarter by SCOTT FOUNDAS source VARIETY

“ HERE’ S the thing: I’ ve always been a hybrid,” a jovial Spike Lee said on Monday afternoon in his office at NYU’ s Tisch School of the Arts, hours after the launch of his Kickstarter campaign to raise $ 1.25 million budget for a planned feature film project.
“ I’ ve always been an independent filmmaker who does Hollywood-financed films. So I go back and forth. My favorite filmmakers are storytellers, and that’ s what I’ m going to continue to do, whether it’ s independent film on Kickstarter or studio films,” he added, citing the stalled development process of his long-in-the-works“ Inside Man” sequel at Universal.“ I can’ t wait around. I
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