#Franchise Social Media Marketing

[webstrategyplus11-blog]

Going Viral on TikTok: How Short-Form Videos Help Franchises

In today’s fast-paced digital world, short-form video content has become a dominant force in capturing the attention of audiences. Among the popular platforms, TikTok stands out as a dynamic and engaging platform where users create and share short, creative videos. For franchise businesses seeking innovative ways to attract a wider audience and make a lasting impact, TikTok offers an incredible opportunity. In this article, we will explore how short-form videos on TikTok can help franchises connect with their target audience, increase brand awareness, and ultimately drive growth.

The Power of Short-Form Video Content

In recent years, consumer behavior has shifted towards consuming content in bite-sized formats. Short-form videos, typically lasting 15 to 60 seconds, cater perfectly to this trend. TikTok’s format of quick, attention-grabbing videos aligns well with modern consumers’ shorter attention spans. Franchises can leverage this format to deliver engaging and impactful messages to their target audience.

TikTok has quickly risen in popularity, boasting over 1 billion monthly active users worldwide. The platform’s reach spans various age groups, with a substantial presence among Gen Z and millennials. For franchises looking to connect with younger demographics, TikTok serves as a direct gateway to potential customers and brand advocates.

Why TikTok Matters for Franchise Businesses

Franchise businesses seeking growth opportunities must prioritize connecting with the younger audience. Gen Z and millennials represent a significant consumer segment with immense purchasing power. TikTok’s user base predominantly comprises these younger demographics, allowing franchises to build a meaningful connection with potential customers in a space where they are most receptive.

Crafting Engaging TikTok Content for Franchises

In the TikTok realm, creativity reigns supreme. Franchise businesses must embrace their creative sides to stand out and capture the audience’s attention. Authenticity is equally crucial, as users on TikTok appreciate genuine content that feels relatable and trustworthy. By showcasing their unique brand voice and identity, franchises can resonate with their target audience on a personal level.

TikTok is characterized by an ever-changing landscape of trends and challenges. Franchises can join trending challenges or create branded ones to increase engagement and visibility. By aligning with these trends, franchises can become part of the cultural conversation, leading to heightened brand exposure and potential viral success.

The Impact of Going Viral on TikTok

TikTok videos have the potential to generate exponential brand exposure. When a franchise’s video gains significant views and engagement, it reaches a wider audience beyond its immediate following. Such viral success can lead to increased brand awareness and a surge in interest from potential customers.

TikTok marketing can extend beyond the digital realm and drive real-world results. By strategically promoting individual franchise locations through TikTok content, franchises can attract foot traffic and generate interest in their offerings. TikTok’s geolocation features and location-based hashtags can be leveraged to target specific audiences for each franchise location.

Measuring Success on TikTok

To gauge the effectiveness of TikTok marketing, franchises can monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) such as views, likes, shares, and user engagement. Analyzing these metrics helps franchises understand the performance of their content and make data-driven decisions.

Make a Lasting Impression Using TiKTok

Ready to harness the power of TikTok for your franchise and unlock unprecedented growth potential? At Web Strategy Plus, we are experts in crafting creative and results-driven TikTok marketing strategies for franchises. Our team can help you create captivating short-form videos that resonate with your target audience and elevate your brand presence.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to make a lasting impression on TikTok’s massive user base. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discover how our expertise can drive your franchise’s success on TikTok.

Remember, at Web Strategy Plus, we grow businesses and get real results – and we’re here to help your franchise thrive with TikTok marketing.

[3416]

1634 make me genuinely ill because there are just.... so few bonds in this sport where you look at them and go. that was 100% meant to happen like that and no one else could've slotted in. like yea, so many of players across the league form close bonds and friendships bc that's the nature of spending a whole part of your life sharing a common goal and space when you're like.. doing this team activity... and guys are constantly befriending ppl and moving on... but auston and mitch it's like. it's almost like THEY feel that they were supposed to have that bond... and go out of their way to reaffirm it at every turn... like they met and got along and loved each other immediately and were so excited to get to play hockey together only to NOT get to for a long while and while they waited, they ??? developed all these rituals. and these things together... their personal routines, things to communicate to each other that they have each other's backs and are building each other into their visions and superstitions and dreams, some of which we'll never know about (unless they'd so kindly like to tell us a la mitch's interview with cabbie where he says maybe some day he'll share the gifts auston's gotten him w the world. tell all book when mitch).. but their gloves and their handshakes and their warmups and even the way they walk into road games and it's jsut. like it's friendship, for sure, obviously. they get along off the ice and make each other laugh the most and have a good time, but it's also the inextricable linking of their own careers. BY THEIR OWN DOING. like they want their names jotted next to each other and that's PART of the chase for this greater goal. yes, they would have been talked about in tandem anyway bc they're out here being the best leafs ever and hitting milestones like 500 points.... 600 points... just weeks apart from each other season to season. but also it's their commitment to each other that makes them talked about too. it's commentators saying they love to play together bc they can see it. they've heard them talk about it. they watch it. "marner to matthews" "matthews to marner". they're always gonna know where each other are.... it makes me . feel. violent with love, lol. makes me feel like some things are definitely meant to be.

[first-digi-add]

Can Digital Marketing Strategies Help Your Franchise Grow?

Understand how to apply Digital Marketing methods to help your franchise grow. Everything you need to know about SEO Services and engage your target audience to boost brand awareness for small businesses is included in this guide.

[riseukbusiness]

Exploring Small Business Opportunities: Finding Your Path to Entrepreneurship

In today's rapidly changing economic landscape, small businesses play a vital role in driving innovation, creating jobs, and contributing to local communities. Whether you're looking to leave your 9-to-5 job, pursue a passion project, or simply explore new avenues for income, understanding the world of small business opportunities can be your gateway to entrepreneurship.

Understanding Small Business Opportunities

Small business opportunities are essentially openings in the market where entrepreneurs can offer products or services to meet customer needs. These opportunities can arise from various factors, including changes in consumer behavior, advancements in technology, or shifts in industry trends. The key to success lies in recognizing these opportunities and aligning them with your skills and interests.

Assessing Your Skills and Interests

Before diving into the world of small business, it's essential to evaluate your skills, interests, and resources. Consider the following questions:

What are your strengths? Identify what you excel at—be it creative skills, technical expertise, or managerial capabilities.

What are you passionate about? Starting a business around something you love can significantly increase your chances of success and satisfaction.

What resources do you have? Consider your financial resources, time availability, and support network. Understanding your limitations can help you choose a viable business opportunity.

Top Small Business Opportunities to Consider

E-commerce Store

With the rise of online shopping, starting an e-commerce store can be a lucrative venture. You can sell products in various niches, from handmade crafts to digital downloads. Platforms like Shopify, Etsy, and Amazon make it easy to set up and manage an online store. Consider dropshipping, where you don’t hold inventory but instead partner with suppliers who fulfill orders on your behalf.

Freelancing and Consulting

If you have expertise in a specific field, consider offering freelance services or consulting. This could include writing, graphic design, marketing, IT support, or business consulting. Websites like Upwork, Freelancer, and Fiverr can help you find clients. Building a strong personal brand and portfolio is crucial for attracting clients and establishing trust.

Health and Wellness Coaching

As people become more health-conscious, there's a growing demand for wellness coaching. If you have a background in fitness, nutrition, or mental well-being, consider offering coaching services. You can provide personalized plans, conduct online workshops, or even create digital products like eBooks or courses.

Pet Services

The pet industry is booming, and there are numerous opportunities within it. You can start a dog walking service, pet grooming, pet sitting, or even a pet training business. If you have a passion for animals, this could be a fulfilling and profitable venture.

Digital Marketing Agency

With businesses increasingly relying on online presence, digital marketing has become essential. If you have skills in SEO, social media management, content marketing, or PPC advertising, consider starting a digital marketing agency. Small businesses often seek these services to help them grow their online visibility and attract more customers.

Home Improvement Services

As homeowners invest in their properties, the demand for home improvement services has surged. This includes landscaping, cleaning services, painting, and general contracting. If you have experience in home renovations or repairs, this could be a great opportunity.

Educational Tutoring

If you have expertise in a particular subject, consider offering tutoring services. Whether it's academic subjects, music lessons, or language learning, parents are often willing to invest in their children's education. You can conduct sessions in person or online, allowing for flexibility in scheduling.

Subscription Box Services

Subscription boxes have gained immense popularity in recent years. You can curate boxes around specific themes, such as beauty products, gourmet foods, or books. By providing a unique and personalized experience, you can attract loyal customers who look forward to receiving your boxes regularly.

Social Media Influencer

If you have a knack for content creation and a substantial following on social media platforms, consider monetizing your influence. Brands are eager to collaborate with influencers to reach target audiences. Focus on a niche that resonates with you, and create engaging content that builds your audience.

Conducting Market Research

Once you've identified a potential business opportunity, it's crucial to conduct thorough market research. This involves analysing your target market, understanding customer preferences, and evaluating your competition. Here are some steps to consider:

Identify Your Target Audience: Determine who your ideal customers are. What are their demographics, interests, and pain points?

Analyse Your Competition: Research competitors in your chosen niche. What are their strengths and weaknesses? How can you differentiate your business?

Gather Feedback: Consider conducting surveys or interviews to gather feedback from potential customers. Their insights can guide your business decisions.

Creating a Business Plan

A well-structured business plan is vital for guiding your entrepreneurial journey. It should outline your business goals, target market, marketing strategy, financial projections, and operational plan. A solid business plan can also be crucial if you seek funding from investors or banks.

Securing Funding

Starting a small business often requires initial capital. There are various funding options available, including:

Personal Savings: Using your savings is a straightforward way to fund your business.

Bank Loans: Traditional loans can provide significant funding, but they require a solid business plan and creditworthiness.

Investors: Consider attracting investors who are interested in your business idea in exchange for equity.

Crowdfunding: Platforms like Kickstarter and Indiegogo allow you to raise funds by pre-selling products or soliciting donations.

Marketing Your Business

Once you’re ready to launch, you need a marketing strategy to attract customers. Consider the following approaches:

Online Presence: Create a professional website and utilize social media platforms to reach your audience.

Content Marketing: Produce valuable content that resonates with your target audience. Blogging, videos, and podcasts can establish your authority in your niche.

Networking: Attend industry events, trade shows, and local business meetups to connect with potential clients and collaborators.

Local Advertising: Utilize local newspapers, radio stations, and community boards to promote your business within your area.

Navigating Challenges

Starting a small business comes with its challenges. Common obstacles include cash flow management, competition, and market fluctuations. To navigate these challenges:

Stay adaptable and open to change.

Maintain a solid financial plan to manage expenses.

Continuously seek feedback from customers and be willing to pivot your offerings based on their needs.

Exploring small business opportunities can lead to a fulfilling and financially rewarding career. By assessing your skills, identifying market needs, conducting thorough research, and creating a solid business plan, you can increase your chances of success. Embrace the challenges of entrepreneurship, and remember that every successful business started with a single step. Your journey begins now—take that step and explore the myriad of opportunities waiting for you.

[beenews4u]

Being Topper Announces Franchise Opportunity to Expand Access to Digital Marketing Education

New Delhi ,Delhi – 27 July ,2024 – Being Topper, a pioneer in the digital marketing education sector, is thrilled to announce a unique franchise opportunity aimed at empowering educational institutions and aspiring entrepreneurs to deliver high-quality digital marketing courses. Founded by digital marketing expert Vipin Khutail in 2013, Being Topper has established itself as a leader in providing comprehensive training that equips individuals with essential skills for success in the digital age.

 Empowering Educational Institutions  

Recognizing the increasing demand for digital marketing expertise, Being Topper is offering a franchise model that allows educational institutions to leverage its renowned curriculum and expertise. Partner institutions will gain access to a meticulously designed digital marketing curriculum covering SEO, social media marketing, PPC advertising, and more. This partnership not only enhances the institution's educational offerings but also ensures students receive industry-relevant training from experienced instructors.

  

Support for Aspiring Entrepreneurs  

For aspiring entrepreneurs passionate about education and digital marketing, Being Topper's franchise opportunity offers a turnkey solution to establish a thriving business. Franchisees will benefit from comprehensive support, including marketing and branding assistance, operational guidance, and ongoing training updates to stay ahead in the competitive digital education landscape.

  Expanding Access Through Franchising  

"Being Topper's franchise initiative marks a significant milestone in our mission to democratize access to digital marketing education," said Vipin Khutail, Founder and Digital Marketing Expert at Being Topper. "We are excited to partner with driven individuals and institutions who share our commitment to empowering students and professionals with essential digital skills."

  Join the Digital Education Revolution  

As the digital landscape continues to evolve, Being Topper remains at the forefront of innovation and excellence in digital marketing education. The franchise opportunity offers a chance to be part of a dynamic network dedicated to transforming careers and businesses through education.

  About Being Topper  

Being Topper was founded in 2013 with a vision to bridge the gap in digital marketing skills through comprehensive training and consulting services. Over the years, it has empowered thousands of individuals and businesses to succeed in the digital age, earning recognition for its impactful contributions to the industry.

For more information about the franchise opportunity with Being Topper, visit https://www.beingtopper.net/digital-marketing-institute-franchise/

 or contact +91-7529019575

[reportgarden1]

Franchise Reporting Dashboard | ReportGarden

Presenting Franchise Reporting Dashboard, an all-inclusive solution for streamlined, data-driven insights designed specifically for franchise companies from   Report Garden. Success in the ever-changing world of franchising depends on maintaining knowledge and streamlining processes. Our customized dashboard gives franchise managers and owners more power to easily oversee and control performance in several locations. 

With the help of the Franchise reporting dashboard, you can compile data from multiple franchisees into one convenient location and see an overall picture of the performance of your whole network. Real-time tracking of client feedback, sales analytics, KPIs, and operational effectiveness is made simple. This dashboard's intuitive layout makes it easy to transform complicated data into useful insights, enabling decision-makers to move quickly and decisively. The foundation of our Franchise Reporting Dashboard is customization. Choose the key performance indicators and analytics that are most important to your franchise to customize the dashboard to meet your unique needs. Our dashboard adjusts to your goals, whether they are centered on increasing revenue, improving customer satisfaction, or improving operational effectiveness. 

This reporting tool transforms franchise communication and collaboration—it saves time without sacrificing quality. Interactive, shareable reports make it easier to communicate with franchisees, fostering openness and agreement on strategic objectives. Encourage your franchise network to adopt a data-driven culture so that all participants may contribute to the success. A single platform for thorough analysis is offered by ReportGarden  Franchise Reporting Dashboard, which interacts with a variety of data sources, such as POS systems, CRM platforms, and marketing channels. With real-time analytics, you can spot patterns and make data-driven decisions that will propel your franchise's expansion. Stay ahead of the curve. To sum up, ReportGarden Franchise Reporting Dashboard is a vital resource for franchise companies looking to gain a competitive advantage. With data-driven decision-making, you may enjoy the ease of centralized reporting, promote teamwork, and grow your franchise network to new heights. Use the power of ReportGarden Franchise Reporting Dashboard to improve your franchise management now. 

[digitalmediacalendar]

Digital Media Calendar shopify website development company in Dwarka mor can help you to take your business to the next level with our extensive knowledge and expertise in the E commerce Website. Attract customers and boost your digital marketing company. Get A Free Consultation Today! Contact us: +91-9971687251 visit our Website

[dhrubo-organization]

Unlocking Startup Success with Business Plan Writing Services

Starting a new business can be an instigative and grueling adventure, but having a logical business plan in position is essential for success. A well- penned business plan can support you secure backing, attract investors, and guide your business missions. still, not all entrepreneurs have the time, moxie, or coffers to produce a complete business plan on their own. That is where business plan…

[webstrategyplus11-blog]

Reputation Management for Franchise Owners: Building Trust and Credibility

In today’s digital age, reputation management plays a crucial role in the success of any business, and franchise owners are no exception. A strong reputation not only helps build trust and credibility among customers but also sets the foundation for long-term success.

In this article, we will explore the importance of reputation management for franchise owners and provide valuable insights on how to effectively build and manage your franchise’s reputation.

Understanding the Importance of Reputation Management

Why is reputation management important for franchise owners?

As a franchise owner, your brand’s reputation directly impacts the perception of your business and influences customers’ decisions. A positive reputation can attract new customers and differentiate your franchise from competitors. Conversely, a negative reputation can deter potential customers and harm your business. Effective reputation management allows you to take control of your brand’s narrative and shape the way your franchise is perceived.

How does reputation management impact the success of a franchise business?

A strong reputation is a valuable asset that can drive the success of your franchise. A positive reputation builds credibility and increases the likelihood of repeat business and referrals. It also allows your franchise to stand out among others. Reputation management ensures that your franchise is accurately represented, maintains a positive online presence, and effectively addresses any negative feedback or issues that may arise.

Elements of a Strong Reputation Management Strategy

Monitoring and Tracking Online Reputation

An essential element of reputation management is monitoring and tracking your franchise’s online reputation. This involves keeping a close eye on customer reviews and social media mentions. By staying informed, you can promptly address any issues and respond to feedback.

Addressing and Managing Negative Reviews

Negative reviews and feedback are inevitable, but how you handle them can make a significant difference. Responding promptly and professionally to negative feedback shows that you care about your customers’ concerns and are committed to finding a resolution. By addressing negative reviews publicly and offering solutions or apologies, you can demonstrate your dedication to customer satisfaction and potentially turn a negative experience into a positive one.

Building a Positive Online Reputation

Proactive Reputation Building Strategies

In order to build a positive online reputation, it is important for franchise owners to have a strategy to position their franchise in a positive light. This strategy should align with the franchiser’s customer service philosophy, including the delivery of exceptional customer service. Happy customers will be strong advocates and leave positive reviews for targeted customers to consider,

Leveraging Customer Testimonials

When leveraging customer testimonials, authenticity is key. Use real customer quotes and stories that highlight the unique aspects of your franchise. Include specific details about how your franchise has positively impacted customers’ lives or businesses. These testimonials serve as powerful endorsements that can sway potential customers in favor of choosing your franchise.

Take Control of Your Franchise’s Reputation

Effective reputation management is vital for franchise owners to build trust, credibility, and a positive brand image. By implementing the strategies you can shape your franchise’s reputation and influence potential customers’ perception.

At Web Strategy Plus, we specialize in reputation management for franchise owners. Our team of experts can guide you through the process, helping you develop a robust reputation management strategy tailored to your franchise’s unique needs. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how our expertise can support your franchise’s success.

Take control of your franchise’s reputation today and ensure a positive and lasting impression on your target audience.

[kdinjenzen]

So with all the stuff going on around Nintendo Vs Pocketpair I feel like people are missing the point of what's going on.

And this article actually finally brings up the biggest point: Nintendo has 1000s of patents and chooses not to enforce them all on everyone.

The idea that, quoting the article and Serkan Toto, "Nintendo's sweeping list of patents means it likely "could have sued half of the gaming industry back in 2017," …so like WHY NOT DO THAT?

There's a million reasons to not do it for Nintendo but TLDR is it's just bad business for them to do so.

The real take away is -what has PocketPair/Palworld done- that has brought out Nintendo to start enforcing these things in this particular situation?

A lot if you pay attention to PocketPair/Palworld's marketing and social presence. They threw rocks at Nintendo, so Nintendo is finally pushing back.

Now I'm not going to fully go to bat for Nintendo and say "they are a good company" because there's no such thing truly…

But in most cases with Nintendo, they C&D folks multiple times before even thinking of escalating anything to real legal trouble. Which is kinder than most companies.

The final thought of the article says that Nintendo may feel "threatened" by PalWorld but… I don't buy it.

Pokemon is THE highest grossing franchise in the world… ever… of all time. It's total revenue is around $100 BILLION with a B.

PalWorld, even at it's height, didn't even come close.

The aspects that I think Nintendo decided to act upon in their mind for this is the brazen bold rudeness and shit talking that happened on social media/marketing with PocketPair/Palworld.

PLUS the fact that Pokemon fans were also quick to be like "bruh, even if this isn't stolen it's obviously design lifted" for a lot of Palworld's Pals.

Add in the fact that both Microsoft and now Sony have pulled PalWorld onto their platforms… Nintendo is going to notice and get mad.

The truth is that PocketPair is an indie dev… with major AAA studios behind it now in a lot of ways. Which actually hurts PocketPair in a sense.

Nintendo tends to ignore indie stuff and has actually collabed with many indie studios before in major ways, so they aren't anti-indie.

Nintendo is OLD SCHOOL and expects a little bit of respect.

Nintendo has not taken action against pretty much any of the other true new Tiny Critter Collecting Indie IP that have popped up, a lot of them are ON Nintendo platforms and have had Nintendo feature them in directs…

But PocketPair threw rocks. Nintendo easily saw this as disrespect, but could be ignored.

What CAN'T be is the outcry from their own fanbase to "look into things" with PalWorld to see what, if anything, was lifted from Nintendo directly.

And Nintendo did. They took over a year to look into it.

This isn't Nintendo doing a knee jerk reaction, they went over things and took their time to research what PalWorld and PocketPair were doing.

Nintendo isn't stupid. They don't pick fights for no reason.

Regardless of if you LIKE Nintendo, or your feelings on a big company taking on a little company… Nintendo is very likely on the right side of business, IP, and patent law here.

Nintendo -losing- here would be, actually, really bad for small folks more than big guys in the long run.

Adding in the fact that PocketPair launched a generative Ai art game on top of all that…

This feel like, yes, Nintendo is flexing in a lot of ways but… they chose who to flex on and not to flex on -everyone-… so there seems to be a solid reason as to -why-.

Again the real take away is that IF Nintendo could have sued half of the gaming industry (as of 2017) with all the patents they have … why didn't they and WHY are they choosing to sue PocketPair/Palworld -now-?

Because that's more important than anything else.

[alltimefail]

Hi @netflix and @warnerbrostv! I'd like to talk about the show Supernatural and how its history and legacy can provide some insight on why you should reconsider your decision to end Dead Boy Detectives after one singular season.

Supernatural is undoubtedly one of the most successful television fantasy franchises, but many don't know that it was nearly cancelled after season 2. Thankfully (and luckily) for the network they didn't go through with cancelling the show and by season 4 it was regularly breaking viewership records. A show that was nearly cut short in its prime - much like Dead Boy Detectives - became one of the largest and most recognizable fandoms across social media platforms between the years of 2010 and 2014. The show was so wildly popular that a confession scene between two of its leading characters (Dean and Cas) is STILL used today in a meme format to circulate everything from fandom news to world politics and current events. You can't go to a single comic-con without running into something relating to Supernatural, and ever since its conclusion there has been an opening in the market for a show to take its place.

I can say with absolute certainty that, given the proper time to flourish, Dead Boy Detectives would be the show to fill the spot Supernatural has left behind. It has loads of charm alongside a sensational balance of action, whimsy, heartwrenching character development, and horror. Furthermore it is objectively better with representation than Supernatural was, which is always something embraced in fandom spaces (which are diverse and filled to the brim with queer, neurodivergent, and/or a wide range of people of color).

I also think it's fair to remind you that one of your most popular "Nerd" shows, Stranger Things, is coming to an end after a 10-year-run, leaving behind yet another gap to fill, but this time on your very own platform.

It isn't too late to reconsider the cancellation of Dead Boy Detectives. The fanbase is dedicated and hungry for more, and we know you are currently sitting on finished season 2 scripts, making it impossible for the writers to take this story anywhere else for quite some time. The scripts are there, the cast, crew, and writers love what they do and want to make more... there's simply no reason to not give Dead Boy Detectives the chance it deserves - this time with an entire fandom that wants nothing more than to consume this show, market the hell out of it, and buy merch relating to it (another win for you).

(Source x)

Oh and did I mention that Steve Yockey was a co-producer on Supernatural as well? You know, that wildly popular show I just told you about that lasted 15 seasons. You are sitting on a golden goose; Steve Yockey and Beth Schwartz, among the other talented writers, cast, and crew, know what they're doing.

Give this show its time and market it well and you will have a hit on your hands. Frankly just based on the steady, continual fandom growth since Dead Boy Detectives' release in April and the vocal outrage over its cancellation just in the last 24 hours, I'd argue you already have a hit on your hands that rivals several shows you currently have on your platform.

Dead Boy Detectives has one of the most active fandoms of the year - do the right thing by them and bring Dead Boy Detectives back. It isn't too late!

[renthony]

Lost in the Remaster: Star Trek, Vintage Special Effects, and the Charm of Old Media

by Ren Basel renbasel.com

Originally created by Gene Roddenberry, Star Trek is a franchise that spans decades. From the original series of 1966 to current shows such as Lower Decks, it stands as a titan of television and pop culture. The real world has undergone incredible change since Star Trek’s first appearance, yet nerds everywhere still find entertainment, inspiration, and hope in its classic episodes. Recently, along with my husband and best friend, I decided I wanted to attempt the gauntlet of watching the entire franchise from beginning to end, revisiting favorites and finally checking out the ones I missed. Media and fandom studies are my passion, after all, and Star Trek is a foundational part of modern American nerd culture.

Starting with the original series proved more difficult than expected. Living in a tiny apartment, we don’t have much space for DVDs, so Star Trek wasn’t in our existing collection. The local public library didn’t have copies, either, and putting in a purchase request doesn’t guarantee it will be made available. My family doesn’t have the funds to pay for every single streaming service on the market, and Star Trek isn’t available on any we do have access to. Piracy was starting to look like the only option, but even that fell flat when we couldn’t find a version with subtitles. Finally we dug it up officially and with subtitles, for free via PlutoTV, but there were still limitations: PlutoTV only streams season one, and season one is only available in the remastered edition that replaced the original special effects with new visuals.

It wasn’t ideal, but, hey, it was Star Trek.

Watching just one episode a week gave us enough time to scrape together savings to get what we really wanted for seasons two and three: the official BluRay release, which includes both remastered and original-release versions of each episode. The remasters are fine, but as a lover of media history and practical effects, I’m always disappointed to lose a chance to appreciate the originals. It doesn’t matter how good it might look, remasters are never as much fun to me as matte paintings, camera tricks, and whatever the prop department could pull off with ten dollars and some glue.

Finally having the BluRays in hand for season two only affirmed my love of vintage practical effects. Seeing the Enterprise in her original glory, before she was ever rendered in digital form, felt like opening a time capsule. I love time capsules. My favorite pieces of media are always those which capture a moment in time, showcasing the aesthetics, concerns, and culture of the time and place they were created. Star Trek: the Original Series is rooted in the late sixties, when mainstream culture in the United States was experiencing immense upheaval and social change. That context is written all over the show. The vintage effects add to it, grounding it in a very specific time and place. Updating the show’s effects takes away some of that 60s aesthetic, and while some may see it as making the show more timeless, I don’t care for it. To me, seeing what they could pull off before modern technology is half the fun of watching old shows. The ingenuity and creativity of propmakers, makeup artists, and set designers working on shoestring budgets is unparalleled.

To be clear, digital effects are also done by skilled professionals who deserve much more respect and many more labor protections. There are some truly stunning works created with digital tools. That said, I hate when digital effects are used to cover up the practical effects that came before. It feels disrespectful to the original artists, as if telling them their work wasn’t good enough; as if their work was just a placeholder until something better could come along and fix it. Practical effects aren’t a placeholder, they’re an art form in their own right, and that art form is one for which I have deep appreciation.

It frustrates me that the original, non-remastered episodes were such a pain for us to access, but I’m very glad to have added them to my personal media collection. No matter what future tweaks Star Trek’s rights holders might make, I can always pop in our personal copies to enjoy the Enterprise and her crew in all their vintage, “outdated” glory. If you’re also too young to remember the show’s original airing, and you have the opportunity to watch the unedited version, I highly suggest you do. Watching the version that aired in 1966 gives the show a charm that no amount of remastering can ever match.

_

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[tanadrin]

I feel like a conspiracy theorist, but I'm convinced the GOP cheated by disenfranchising enough voters to win. Not just in swing states. The margins in every state are weird. A few thousand votes here and there across every county. The huge number of split ticket votes. The sudden loss of 12 million democratic voters despite record early voting turnout and voter registration?

It doesn't add up. It doesn't make sense.

So many people who had confirmation of their ballot being received and accepted are now finding out that they were unregistered or there was a "problem" with it.

They were saying for months that they didn't need anyone's vote. The betting market manipulation. The billionaire backers. Elon Musk's grubby hands all over the election.

They did steal the election. And we'll probably never find out how.

in the broad sense, yes, american elections should be fairer, and the franchise should be more universal. in the narrow sense--this is cope. purges of voter rolls happen in public. there's litigation on them all the time. a purge of 12 million voters from voter roles would not have gone unnoticed. to account for all these factors you would need an improbably large conspiracy. (stealing elections in the united states would be hard. each state administers its own elections! you'd have to steal 50 elections. and once again, this would be a case of someone rigging the presidential election and forgetting to rig any of the downballot races, which would be stupid.) including a conspiracy to rig most polling, given the outcome was within the margin of error of most polling averages for this election.

i get why it's the preferable scenario--people aren't dumb! my opponents are just evil! there's some optimism in that--but "i personally do not understand how this outcome could have occurred" does not mean it was a conspiracy.

So many people who had confirmation of their ballot being received and accepted are now finding out that they were unregistered or there was a "problem" with it.

this is normal and you typically have several days after the election to amend your ballot if there was a problem with it. if you do, it still counts. fun word problem time: if ~150 million people vote in an election, and 0.001% post on twitter about how they needed to amend their ballot (especially in non-swing states), how many twitter posts in a row do you have to see to convince yourself there is a ~conspiracy~ afoot?

fun second word problem: out of seven swing states, how many were governed by the opposing party or someone who had publicly opposed donald trump's election subversion attempts in 2020?

fun third word problem: do you know how elections in your state work? do you know which state official is in charge of administering them, and their party affiliation? do you know what the margins of downballot races like house and senate in your state were this election, and their relative swing from 2020? in short, do you know in detail how elections in the US work and what "typical" voting patterns look like, or are you just going off of vibes from a vaguely paranoid local bubble in social media?

[simplegenius042]

SPOILER FREE!

As a long time fan who’s seen this film with family who weren’t really interested nor fans of this franchise, I can confirm that the TFHypeGuy’s hype is nothing to disregard. This is a modern film that should be the standard of how to tackle making well… a modern film.

So worth the watch, go to the cinemas while you still can and see for yourself. I’ve heard people say that the beginning is slow pace and does have a bit of exposition dumping but it does pick up further you watch it. The action is good, the visuals beautiful, some of the comedy does slap actually. But the emotional bits… oh god yes the emotional aspects of this film are treated with phenomenal respect and trust me… there are moments you will be awed and shocked in the greatest way possible.

I encourage everyone, fans old and new, or any casual movie watcher who’s bored out of their mind with time to kill and money to spend, go see this film in cinemas right now!

Since the studio’s marketing refused to give this film the respect it deserves, it is up to us fans to show the world there is more to this film than meets the eye.

Don’t take my word for it? Watch the video above, it’s a compilation of a dedicated fan on social media who chose to market the hype this film deserved to get. The posts are dubbed. Spoiler free too, as he’s only marketing the film.

Additionally, do not believe IGN’s scores. Hell, don’t believe them on anything actually. They don’t know their head from their ass. At least Rotten Tomatoes knows what’s up.

Anyway, that’s all! Chow!

[aroaceleovaldez]

you're like the first blog i thought about ranting on this to but it drives me up the wall that some people treat any criticism aimed at tsats2 as being anti-ship or avoidable via just "not reading it". i dont think they realize that we're talking about a bigger issue of soulless commercialization and heavy quality downgrade of a franchise, not like. about an indie author publishing a fan book lmao

'i'll read it anyways haters gonna hate' crowd likely largely funding richard's mediocrity is sad.

I think part of it may have to do with a.) a lack of distinction in recent fandom culture between "Fandom" and "Audience" (alongside other recent fandom culture attitudes as well) and b.) so much of Rick's brand is built up exactly on parasocial behavior that a lot of fans get caught up in it. [under cut cause this got long:]

Re: The first, more recent fandom culture tends to treat "Fandom" and "General audience" as wholly equivocal. Because of this, the concepts tend to bleed into each other in a way we haven't quite seen before fandom became mainstream, and as a result we get a kind of Worst Of Both Worlds situation - a bunch of very passionate fans who have no community, create little to no fanworks themselves (only consume), and only engage at a surface level with the source material. Their only "fandom" community hub is the source material and official social media and they don't have a concept of how to exist outside it, unlike folks who are more used to older fandom culture and are self-sufficient. They have the passion and identity of classic fandom, but none of the depth, and so threats to the source material feel like threats to their community as a whole. They also just don't seem to understand that different subsections of the deeper fandom community are engaging with the material on an entirely different level, or they don't understand why they're doing that. They see no need to because they're never actually engaging with the community or source material beyond a surface level. Functionally they don't have a community. And mainstream media is actively encouraging this because it's profitable for them - they're reaping all of the rewards of fandom, minus the fact that because of the lack of actually community and support structures the entire "fandom" will only have a shelf life the same length of the source material. But at the same time this means they don't have to worry about quality or etc, because this extremely passionate side of their audience will just take anything thrown at them and it'll phase out almost immediately. It doesn't need to be good, it just needs to elicit some kind of reaction on social media. Any publicity is good publicity type stuff.

This lack of true community plus the parasocial emphasis the RR company has tends to make these types of fans double-down. Rick and co. are explicitly advertised as being both part of the "community" and integral to it. And when they've built Rick (and co) up as this moral paragon critical to both part of their identity they're very passionate about and what little of a community they have, any attack on him feels like an attack on themself. Particularly when so much of the publicity and marketing surrounding Rick right now is about his alleged activism when a lot of the criticism about him and the series is actively calling that into question with his unaddressed internalized bigotries. Acknowledging that what Rick is saying and promoting himself as versus his writing and actions don't always line up and pointing out the bigotry present in his work forces people to acknowledge and think about performative activism, which can make a lot of people very uncomfortable! It's forcing them to acknowledge "Oh, even if I'm saying all the right words and calling myself an ally, I am not immune to being bigoted if I don't address my internalized biases. My actual behavior matters." and that especially can feel like a personal attack. Especially in today's western landscape of media consumption being viewed as a moral act in itself.

I suspect this is why a lot of the retaliation against criticism of Rick and the franchise right now is "Why can't you just have FUN? You're just trying to hate for views. Don't take it so seriously! It's not that deep!" - they not only have no interest in engaging deeper in the material, but don't understand why others would, and doing so jeopardizes the foundations of what they consider the fandom. They can't fathom anybody legitimately having these criticisms (particularly not anybody who would ACTUALLY consider themself a "fan" - because their perception of "fan" is themself) because they're so resistant to digging deeper into the media/source material or the concept that anyone would for any legitimate reason (because as long as they keep it as "it's not that deep!!! it's just fun! just enjoy it you wet blanket!!!!" and take things at their word, they can feel secure in that performative aspect and not have to unpack it), and acknowledging that those criticisms exist and are valid means they have to acknowledge the franchise is flawed and imperfect, so they presume the claims are entirely superficial and the individual has ulterior motives rather than, yknow, doing what fandom does: diving deeper.