#and shifting the responsibility of storytelling to your audience

[brujahinaskirt]

idk man my feed is constantly full of people polling their readers to ask if it's "okay" to write about xyz or add abc to their ongoing fic. and maybe i'm just making distressed noises as a byproduct of my own role in a creative industry, a space in which professionals are rarely permitted to have true authority over their commercial work once a budget is opened. but i am really troubled by how quickly it has become so common for hobbyist writers to view hobby writing as an transactional public service and not as. idk. art.

[askhezureviews]

We will all know your thoughts on season 2 of HB soon. I don’t know if you waiting was in response to people saying”you have to wait to see the whole season before judging it” but do you think there’s any ever case where this could apply to reviews?

Actually, that is typically what I prefer to do. I like to binge watch media to their completion for a more rounded review. I know my 45+ min videos are annoying to most, I can't blame them since I too have a short attention span- as well as a terrible tendency to waste half the review summarizing the plot (I'm working on fixing that for my future reviews, apologies for that) but I typically prefer to judge things on an overall basis rather than part 1, part 2, episode 12, season 3, season 6- simply for the sake of video cleanliness. The phrase of "wait until it finishes before judging" is a major player for all media. Absolutely the case with Arcane, because season 2 they had an unreliable narrator as well as a structure designed to withhold information from the audience.

The Owl House and Steven Universe didn't actually even... start their plots until their second seasons, they had a very slow start.

I'm also gonna wait for more episodes of Monkey Wrench and The Amazing Digital Circus before making a youtube review, since they're still pretty early on in production. There's a lot of character information and plot we simply do not have yet- regardless, I'm loving what I'm seeing thus far.

The reason I made an exception for Helluva Boss: They already had at least one season established, and episode 1 of season 2 completely changed the storyline season 1 was heading for. You could see an immediate change in storytelling and pacing due to the fact that the writer changed, as well as the show's priorities shifting to focus on the ship pandering.

If I had been watching Tangled the series in real time, I probably would have also made an exception video regarding Cassandra's villain arc immediately because the set up for that was nonsensical, and true to the start, it remained nonsensical to the end of the show. Helluva Boss had problems before, but the comedy genre allowed wiggle room for making mistakes because it didn't take itself seriously. But now that it has dedicated itself as a romantic drama, investing in character angst and connections, it starts dragging on as plotline traumas start repeating and becoming more dramatic. It is now taking itself too seriously.

Changing Stolitz from a business partners with benefits to childhood friend soulmates was a red flag that stood out to me, because this decision changed the trajectory of the show and omit our characters from any wrongdoing. I've never seen a show flatten their characters like pancakes in a single episode before, it was astonishing.

While some of Helluva Boss's season 2 episodes managed to redeem some nice writing or character moments, regardless, this season has continued to end all stakes for our characters through plot armor as well as humiliating the villains they introduced in season 1.

If you have at least one established season for your show, and your writing suddenly: 1. Drastically changes prior interaction & depth of characters 2. Changes the show's trajectory, focus, and genre 3. Presents the above in a nonsensical manner / no believable set up Then that's a red flag to indicate the show is gonna go down hill, as previous fans are now left confused to the sudden change. There's a high probability you'll lose views/support/money because of these changes. While the show may attempt to backtrack in later episodes, as Helluva Boss has, this creates a separate problem of contradicting itself, leaving the audience confused as to how they're meant to interpret these scenes as the tone flip flops every other episode. (and actually leads to more fandom drama)

I've been waiting for season 2 to end because the initial plot change shock was over, as they continued to double down on their decision. As well as my realization that a different writer was actually now on board, which explained a lot. Thus, I want to go back and review Helluva Boss season 1 and season 2 as a whole instead of the episode reviews I was doing, to help put things into perspective for people and actually get to talk about what Helluva Boss did right so I can lead into where it went wrong.

[mihai-florescu]

Putting a message i sent earlier under a read more, it has some thoughts ive expressed before tho. ES, of course

My thoughts as an EichiP... i view ! and !! as different stories in the way they're approached tbh, what i fell in love with enstars for was the character driven storytelling of one event seen through different perspectives, where you see the antagonist in one perspective become a protagonist in another story and can empathize with the entire cast like this. I fell in love with eichi's story of second chances, getting what you want and regretting your actions in the process, redemption, desperation, overcoming fate and asserting one's self into the story, saving a school in a dying industry that saved your life by giving you a dream; i consider it an arc fulfilling to the reader at the end of ! era. But we still had to continue... and it's not like we didnt get inklings of eichi's dreams of idol utopia, the idol soldier idea goes back to main story 1, but !! loses the charm of the original series through expanding the worldbuilding so much and shifting to a plot driven story that opens 10 cans of worms instead of offering resolutions. There's not really room to breathe if the stakes just keep getting higher and higher...

As for the colonisation plotline, it's been here since the beginning of ES2. The SS arc makes it obvious, but i remember even before, the talks about ES taking over from local businesses, trying to be seen as the standard, it was always the direction ensemble square as an institution would take. But the "antagonist in one story, protagonist in another" approach doesnt work anymore with such subjects. The guys responsible for this are your coworkers you share dorms with. I read the stories but cant empathize anymore, so i've been feeling disconnected from eichi for a while. I see enstars with eichi at its core but i didnt care for his center event, i read it, didnt like the ending, and overall felt off. Eichi becoming the villain of ! to attone for the war kind of loses significance if a year later he is a cartoon villain idol colonialist you can't even sympathize with anymore because of the magnitude of events. However i do think !! has done good things for some characters pushing them further or developing them in a way ! didnt. But for others...

I also have my issues with sci fi elements becoming the norm, even taken metaphorically or as hyperboles, when one of the central themes i love about enstars is humanity. Then again, i am a war era fan that relied on manipulating human desires and perceptions, and the fact that there were no monsters or gods, just humans framed as such, playing on people's fears and beliefs, it's a bit jarring to me to have them introduce AIs forming from escaped comatose brains (im minimizing the switch climax rn, i didnt even hate it as a whole, just this resolution im unhappy with)

It also feels like we've lost some of the meta aspects of the writing i liked, a certain awareness of being characters in a story and there being an audience. But im still struggling to word my thoughts on this matter. I felt it present in main story 2, even if it annoyed me at parts in its obviousness ("good thing we're not protagonists, no one would want to read about us" youre right aira you are not interesting to me. And yet i'll read your story to try and empathize nevertheless. I have other thoughts on aira too, perhaps for another time). I wish we explored a bit more what it means to no longer be the central protagonist, from trickstar's perspective...and brought back the successors topic. But i havent read every ts story yet so i'd be foolish to complain before really making sure i've checked everything. To me ! ended satisfyingly with room left for elaborations and imagination, but i dont feel like !!'s ending is really ending anything at all. Not necessarily bad since it's not like the game is shutting down, but overwhelming worldbuilding wise while underwhelming character wise...

Let's see... im not sure how to end this. Just a bit of a stream of consciousness as a ! fan who still loves enstars despite my critiques. Mainly, well, no one's gonna take away the stories that already exist that i do love and impacted my life greatly. And i do think !! had some really good things too it brought, or at least stories i hold dear too. Change is scary and i don't think it's always for the best, but it's also fun to see where it goes next...

[my-mt-heart]

Welcome back SF, really missed your input.

That's really kind of you to say 🙏 I'm watching this spinoff against better judgment and have a lot of thoughts on it, but I'll try to stick to production topics.

[W]hy giving so many visual cues for Carol?

Like MT and you yourself said, AMC realized (somewhat belatedly) that they can't Carol-ify characters (Maggie in DC/Isabelle in DD) and expect the audience to get excited. The studio knows Carol gets engagement, that's why they keep pushing the character on social media despite the fact that officially, she's not part of TWDU. I believe Melissa/Carol is so conspicuously absent from Nicotero's interviews for related reasons.

Correct me if I'm wrong, but didn't they shove Melissa and Angela aside to make their own spin off?

No, you're right, but each of the people wanting them off the project had their own reasons for it. It's not as simple as "Norman got a big head" from being the most marketed character (although there's an element of that too). There's a lot of people involved and they all had different things to gain from having these two women removed.

So, my guess right now is, it's about the money and someone less with an opinion, so both Greg and Norm have more creative freedom and a couple of spare millions to spend on their vision

AMC spent way more money this way than having Melissa be part of the show from the start, so no, it's not about money and making a TV show isn't a bunch of people compromising on what to do. (More on that a little further down.)

There are many reasons and @jaibhagwan mentioned one of them in a comment to my previous ask, "[W]ho has the most the gain by sabotaging Caryl to make himself look good writing his “love story” spinoff?" Gimple was heavily involved in S11, the development of DD and in part of pre-production, and like I've previously said, he doesn't want competition. (It shouldn't be a competition at all, since a TV show is a collaborative effort and as a viewer I'm capable of liking both Carol and Michonne. Not that the race is between the women, because Gimple doesn't care about either of them.) He wants DD to fail, so he can swoop in to save the franchise with his TOWL show.

Just so no one misunderstands this as a slight and gets upset: Michonne is one of my favorites and I hold Danai in utmost respect. I'm not comparing women or female characters. They bring different things to the franchise and that's a GOOD THING. I want more of that. I also think Clémence is a great actor and apart from the sweeping aerial establishing shots, she's the only enjoyment I'm getting from DD. My issue is with Gimple and Zabel (whose existence as a "fleshie" I can unfortunately confirm to anyone thinking he might be a cardboard cutout), and their no-good storytelling.

@rubberchickeny "They all ring untrue and like he’s trying to manage (badly) the image the media and the public have. He’s contradicting himself, and other information given."

I believe the obfuscation is on purpose and that AMC (by way of Nicotero) is also trying to shift blame for some of their more controversial story decisions.

Everything that happens on a TV show has been approved by the studio responsible for the production. It doesn't matter if you're an egomaniac actor, a spiteful hack of a writer or a burnt-out EP—no one can override the studio. Someone at the studio approved the respec of Daryl back to his S2 self, the choice to deny his found family, the nunbaiting, etc. Every single script goes to the studio for notes and then (eventually) final approval before it's locked. They approve of the episode edit; if they don't like it, it gets reedited to their specifications.

There's a method to the madness in everything Nicotero has been saying.

@kryptoniancape "So he blatantly lied about having no creative control in that hit piece?"

Yes 🤷‍♀️ and you're right, it's a hit piece. The question is why. Why do AMC and Greg Nicotero want you to think that everything that's wrong about this show is Norman's fault? I'm not saying he doesn't bear any responsibility, but this isn't a one-man standup comedy special on HBO. If he made demands AMC didn't want to meet, they could have pulled the plug on those delusions at any point.

SF

“I’m watching this spinoff against better judgment”

Translation: MT is making me watch so I can answer her long list of questions she sent me.

I guess my concern about a possible smear campaign is…are they expecting more backlash later on? If so, I’m terrified to find out what that is. I’m getting so many asks from people wondering why they should hope for a better story in S2, and even though I do think we can put some of our faith in Melissa, it’s still a valid question. Because they should be doing everything to rebuild our trust that was lost the day they announced the Caryl spinoff was canceled, but instead they’re preparing for things to get worse?

Again, all I want (as a fan and as another woman in the industry) is to feel reassured that Melissa’s getting everything a leading lady deserves and that Daryl and Carol are getting the story they deserve.

Fwiw: If Danai was the showrunner on her spinoff, I would’ve been SEATED for that. If Melissa got to showrun or direct, I’d be seated for that too. TWDU needs more women and poc making creative decisions.

[abiee-kay]

The Rise of Alternative PR: A Purpose-Driven Revolution

In the ever evolving landscape of marketing and public relations, traditional PR tactics are gradually losing their effectiveness. As consumers become increasingly discerning and socially conscious, they seek brands that align with their values and make a positive impact on the world. This shift in consumer behavior has given rise to a new paradigm: alternative PR.

Understanding Alternative PR

Alternative PR, often referred to as "purpose driven PR" or "impact PR," goes beyond traditional media relations and press releases. It focuses on building authentic relationships with key stakeholders through creative, innovative, and socially responsible campaigns. By leveraging a diverse range of channels and tactics, alternative PR aims to:

Amplify Brand Authenticity: Showcase a brand's true essence and values, fostering trust and loyalty among consumers.

Drive Social Impact: Contribute to meaningful causes and address societal issues, enhancing a brand's reputation and attracting socially conscious consumers.

Engage Audiences Emotionally: Create compelling narratives and experiences that resonate with audiences on a deeper level.

Measure and Optimize: Track the impact of campaigns and refine strategies to maximize ROI and long-term brand value.

Key Components of Alternative PR

Purpose-Driven Storytelling:

Identifying Brand Purpose: Clearly define the core purpose of your brand and how it can make a positive difference.

Crafting Authentic Narratives: Develop compelling stories that highlight your brand's values and mission.

Leveraging Storytelling Techniques: Utilize storytelling techniques like storytelling, case studies, and personal anecdotes to engage audiences.

Social Impact Initiatives:

Partnering with Non-Profit Organizations: Collaborate with reputable organizations to amplify their impact and align with your brand's values.

Launching Corporate Social Responsibility Programs: Implement initiatives that address social and environmental issues, such as sustainability, diversity, and equity.

Creating Social Impact Campaigns: Develop campaigns that raise awareness, inspire action, and drive positive change.

Influencer Marketing and Partnerships:

Identifying Influential Voices: Collaborate with influencers who align with your brand's values and can authentically promote your message.

Building Authentic Relationships: Foster long-term partnerships with influencers to create meaningful content and campaigns.

Leveraging Micro-Influencers: Utilize the power of micro-influencers to reach niche audiences and build trust.

Experiential Marketing:

Creating Immersive Experiences: Design interactive experiences that engage audiences on an emotional level.

Hosting Events and Workshops: Organize events that align with your brand's purpose and provide value to attendees.

Leveraging Pop-Up Shops and Installations: Create unique and memorable experiences that generate buzz and drive brand awareness.

Digital and Social Media:

Utilizing Social Media Platforms: Leverage social media to share stories, engage with audiences, and build a strong online presence.

Creating Shareable Content: Develop content that is visually appealing, informative, and encourages sharing.

Utilizing Influencer Marketing on Social Media: Collaborate with influencers to create authentic and engaging content on social media platforms.

The Role of 9FigureMedia in Alternative PR

9FigureMedia is a leading PR agency specializing in alternative PR strategies. We help brands harness the power of purpose-driven campaigns to achieve their business objectives. Our services include:

Brand Story Development: We help you craft compelling narratives that resonate with your target audience.

Social Impact Strategy: We develop and implement effective social impact initiatives that align with your brand's values.

Influencer Partnerships: We connect you with influential voices to amplify your message and reach a wider audience.

Experiential Marketing: We create immersive experiences that leave a lasting impression on your audience.

Digital and Social Media Strategy: We develop comprehensive digital and social media strategies to drive engagement and conversions.

Measurement and Analytics: We track the impact of your campaigns and provide data-driven insights to optimize your strategy.

The Future of Alternative PR

As consumers continue to prioritize purpose and authenticity, alternative PR will become an increasingly essential tool for brands to build strong relationships, drive positive impact, and achieve long-term success. By embracing this innovative approach, businesses can differentiate themselves in a crowded marketplace and create a lasting legacy.

In Conclusion

Alternative PR is more than just a trend; it's a powerful strategy that can transform your brand. By focusing on purpose, authenticity, and impact, you can build a loyal following, drive positive change, and achieve sustainable growth. 9FigureMedia is your partner in this journey, helping you navigate the complex landscape of alternative PR and achieve your goals.

[reachexceedinggrasp]

It is really weird, as you say, that these sorts of characters (Beasts, grotesques, Byronic heroes, etc.) are so emotionally, aesthetically, narratively potent and draw on a rich literary history, yet they're such a contentious archetype, rarely done well now. I personally ascribe that to an obvious modern shift in the direction of storytelling cynicism (and I think you elsewhere have too, so don't mind me repeating your points back at you), but do you see a way out of it?

It's obviously an issue which goes beyond them (I mean even the central idea of redemption, or a complicated soul, is contentious), and so I imagine that the way out is effectively only possible if there are much more broader shifts in discourse. I think it's probably true that we might've peaked with cynicism now (absurdism seems to be more an idea that's being embraced - much as I don't like that, either, it's a gestural attempt at least).

But to circle back away from that, it's so funny how... if you're sincere and if you care and if you're trying hard, you can trip and fall into a complicated, Beastly character. And then they get mad about it.

Off anon because I figured I may as well hee hee.

It's definitely a weird moment in mass pop culture, because cynicism is so ingrained as the default that there's sometimes a lack of self-awareness about it from the writers who are responsible for the most mercilessly cynical takes. Of course, writing extruded movie product by marketing committee, as a lot of them are, is unlikely to produce different results, but I believe some of these people genuinely aren't cognizant of the worldviews they're putting across in these stories.

Romanticism has been deeply out of fashion for a long time and idealism is never in fashion, so it's not like cynicism itself is new as the dominant attitude, but it seems like that cynicism has become ever more juvenile and shallow. People steeped in it try to write optimism to play to the crowd (because generally people want a happy ending) and it comes off as the bleakest, most hopeless nihilism.

I think real idealism is challenging and the more complex the story becomes, the more challenging it is, so that you encounter more resistance writing idealistic narratives for adults, because it's so demanding when we see what it really looks like. It stops being crowd pleasing when uncompromising principles come up against the audience's desire for revenge, spectacle, machismo, etc. And because compassion and forgiveness have been relegated to media for children, people are wont to dismiss them as childish. Cynicism is still seen as cool and grown up and 'just being realistic' and fosters a vast wasteland of boring, lazy stories with characters you don't care about.

It is funny how people trip into Sad Murder Boys/Beasts/grotesques, but I think it sort of makes sense for the same reason they're such a rare character type despite being intensely impactful every time they happen, the same reason they're contentious: these are inherently romantic archetypes. So if you're trying to write passionately about this dark figure and you want him to be a complex character, so you give him pathos, and you want him to be powerful or intimidating because you're using him as a threat but still have big flaws so he can be defeated by the hero, and you want him to be charismatic to show why people would trust or follow him, and you want him to be attractive so you can have your incel message about male allure being dangerous... oops, you've accidentally created a romantic figure.

People accidentally writing tragic heroes when trying to write villains have already made something way more compelling than what they imagined, but then when they play up the pathos in attempt to emphasise free choice and create a tension where the audience sees a desire for healing from the character, a potential for change, they have inserted the most dynamic drama known to man. The hope this represents is so potent that it's going to alter the entire landscape of the narrative whether you want it to or not.

The possibility of redemption is a fundamentally idealistic concept and once we have our rogue romantic character breaking through stolid predictable archetypes and rigid storytelling, there's equal parts terror and intrigue on the part of the audience that they might be challenged with it. Redemption equals death is so popular because it defangs the challenge, it strips it of cost and consequence, allowing a veneer of optimism and admirable morality without needing to deal with what makes being ethical hard.

I think what we need more than anything else is more deliberate writing. People who actually want to tell a story and have something they want to say. No one is going to write anything legitimately challenging when they've been commissioned to make Captain Bland 11 and the story barely matters to anyone involved in production. It's uncool to care and there's a lack of respect for the audience, so the most you get is more 3edgy4me death and cynicism because these manchildren are convinced that's somehow still subversive despite paragon heroes who always say the day having been extinct for about fifty years.

You won't get brave choices out of the mainstream until someone with huge money decides they want to make them, because the entertainment industry has consolidated into the most risk-averse and cynical possible version of itself. Either something escapes containment and shows how profitable actually following through on romanticism can still be (you'd think this would have happened by now given how many chances have come up), or the current hierarchy crashes and burns and the field opens up to variety again.

[varunshrimediasolutions]

How to End Low Conversion Rates In 2024

Introduction

Consider this: You've spent countless hours creating the ideal website and curating items or services that are nothing short of extraordinary. You're all set for people to rush to your site and convert into devoted clients. 

Nonetheless, despite your efforts, your conversion rates remain dismally low. It's like owning a lovely storefront on a busy street, that no one ever enters. Don't worry, because we'll untangle the riddle of conversion rates and provide you with tactics to shift the tide in your favour in this tutorial.

Conversion Rates: An Overview

First and foremost, let us debunk the term "conversion rates." A conversion occurs in the realm of online business when a user performs a desired activity. This could be making a purchase, signing up for a newsletter, completing a contact form, or downloading an e-book. The conversion rate is the proportion of visitors that complete the targeted action.

What Constitutes a Good Conversion Rate?

Setting reasonable expectations is essential before going on a journey to increase your conversion rates. Conversion rates differ greatly among industries, specializations, and even traffic sources. 

A respectable conversion rate for an e-commerce site could be about 2-3%, while a niche-specific landing page could aim for substantially higher numbers. Always strive for ongoing improvement. Even a 0.5% increase can result in significant gains over time.

How to Improve Conversion Rates

1. Recognize Your Audience

Understanding your audience is the first step in improving conversion rates, just as a competent chef tailors a meal to suit the tastes of their guests. Analyze analytics to learn more about demographics, preferences, and behaviour. Create content, design, and offers that speak to the needs and desires of your target audience.

2. Create Interesting Content

Consider your website to be a tale ready to be told. Engaging material written in a clear and succinct manner can capture the attention of your visitors. To lure consumers into your brand's tale, use persuasive language and storytelling approaches. A relevant tale has the ability to elicit an emotional response, which can have a significant impact on conversion rates.

3. Improve Website Design

The design of your website, like the packaging of a product, must be appealing and user-friendly. Visitors can leave a busy, confused website faster than you can say "bounce rate." Invest in a clean, intuitive design that effortlessly takes consumers to your call-to-action buttons.

4. Call-to-Action Magic

Call-to-action (CTA) buttons are the magic wands that can transform casual browsers into eager clients. Make your CTAs visible, appealing, and actionable. Use action verbs such as "Get Started," "Join Now," or "Unlock Exclusive Access" to elicit instant action.

5. Establish Trust

Trust is your most valuable currency in a digital world riddled with scams and unscrupulous practices. Show trust indicators like customer feedback, security badges, and endorsements from credible sources. Visitors who feel comfortable and confident are more likely to convert.

6. Iteration and A/B testing

Improving conversion rates is a multifaceted endeavour. A/B testing can be used to compare different versions of your website, landing pages, or CTAs. This iterative method enables you to determine what connects most with your target audience and make data-driven decisions.

Conclusion

To put a stop to the period of low conversion rates, a strategic blend of art and science is required. Understand your target, convey an engaging story, provide a consistent user experience, and establish trust. Remember that Rome was not built in a day and that significant changes in conversion rates may take time. 

Continue to be patient, persistent, and open to refining your plans in response to real-time data. Your online storefront is more than just code; it is a portal to meaningful conversations and fruitful commercial connections. You're not simply increasing numbers when you master the art of conversion; you're also creating an engaging digital journey.

So, empower yourself with these methods and watch as your conversion rates improve, paving the way for a brighter, more lucrative online future. Your success story begins right now.

Read more of our other blog posts on our website 👇

Why A Website Is Important For Small Businesses

[embracemindz]

"Navigating the Digital Seas: A Comprehensive Guide to Effective Digital Marketing Strategies"

In the fast-paced realm of digital marketing, staying ahead of the curve is essential for success. Whether you're a seasoned marketer or just starting, this blog will guide you through the key principles and strategies to thrive in the ever-evolving digital landscape.

Understanding the Digital Ecosystem

Digital marketing encompasses various channels, from social media and content marketing to SEO and email campaigns. Learn how to strategically leverage each platform to maximize your brand's visibility and engagement.

Crafting a Powerful Online Presence

Explore the importance of a cohesive brand identity and how to create compelling content that resonates with your target audience. Uncover the secrets of effective storytelling and visual aesthetics to leave a lasting impression.

Social Media Mastery

Dive into the intricacies of social media marketing. Discover how to choose the right platforms, create engaging content, and utilize paid advertising effectively. Stay updated on the latest trends and algorithms shaping the social media landscape.

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) Unveiled

Demystify the world of SEO and understand how to optimize your website for search engines. Learn about keyword research, on-page and off-page optimization, and the importance of quality backlinks in boosting your site's ranking.

Email Marketing Best Practices

Explore the art of crafting compelling emails that not only land in the inbox but also drive conversions. From building a responsive email list to designing captivating newsletters, master the key elements of successful email marketing campaigns.

Data-Driven Decision Making

Unlock the power of analytics and data in shaping your digital marketing strategy. Learn how to interpret metrics, track user behavior, and make informed decisions to continually refine and improve your campaigns.

Adapting to Technological Advancements

Stay ahead of the curve by exploring the impact of emerging technologies like AI and AR on digital marketing. Understand how these innovations can enhance user experience and open new avenues for connecting with your audience.

Building a Community

Discover the importance of building a loyal online community. Explore strategies for engaging with your audience, fostering user-generated content, and creating a sense of belonging that extends beyond your products or services.

Future Trends in Digital Marketing

Peer into the future of digital marketing and anticipate upcoming trends. From the rise of voice search to the evolving role of influencers, stay prepared for the dynamic shifts shaping the industry.

Conclusion

Armed with this comprehensive guide, you're equipped to navigate the complex and exciting world of digital marketing. Remember, the key lies in continuous learning, adaptation, and a willingness to embrace innovation. Happy marketing!

[adamsvanrhijn]

I think that the fact Maud hasn't done anything sus at all before ep 6, probably just means that she's a mastermind scammer or a part of something elaborately planned. To the point we weren't expecting it of her as viewers, and it's skillfully done because we're experiencing it through Oscar's lense in a way. It's totally not how JF has usually written things, but it's gonna add some emotional impact to it when Oscar finds out he's been scammed.

It would def be a significant departure from how JF usually writes things but, as some have pointed out, not for big HBO shows necessarily - so that would be interesting if he's picking up network storytelling habits

I think whether or not it's skillful is a matter of debate though - I am writing a big post about this, but from what I know now, I don't think it is the best outcome to suit Oscar's story from a narrative perspective so I'll probably be disappointed. What's the purpose of all that screentime, especially for a character that had a mixed and largely critical response in the first season? I said this at some point, but we don't actually get to know Oscar's personal motivations the way we did last season when he was telling them to John outright, and Oscar's behavior is not the best representation necessarily of what Oscar is trying to do.

To say nothing of Maud as a character in her own right having her own motivations that we, if she's done this episode and never comes back and it was all lies all along, don't get to see. Despite having two scenes that did [seem to] give Maud some inner complexity. If she just shows up to scam Oscar and leave then what was the point of that in the context of the story (other than to mislead the viewer) (which if I have not made clear I prefer to be multipurpose!!!). I would rather have seen something that does point to Maud's actual motivations because I want her to be a character-person who feels like she exists and not like a tool that is intended to throw me off the ultimate outcome.

This is definitely biased because I am a fan of Oscar. But I would rather this tie in meaningfully to his story and like, what are we learning about him if it's a just your average run of the mill confidence scam, how are we moving his specific storyline forward? He's not the main character. The main person telling him & the audience anything about Maud is Aurora, who is one of Oscar's family members and a person he has no reason to doubt, so we're not even seeing him being particularly susceptible to Maud specifically. He's already shown himself to be shortsighted. We know he makes poorly thought out choices. We know he likes money. We know he thinks everything will magically be ok if he can just do this one thing. Where is this taking us for Oscar?

If it isn't taking us anywhere for Oscar, then it's only taking us to the Ada-Agnes power dynamic shift, and I would rather it do more than one thing at a time!

To be clear I am by NO MEANS saying that I do not want Oscar to lose money or make stupid financial decisions. I am looking forward to seeing this! What I am saying is that I think it's boring and a cop-out if they get there by this being a straightforward recognizable-to-twist-happy-21st-century-audiences scam for all characters involved.

[eternalelevator]

Outdated Instagram Strategies to Abandon in 2025

Instagram is evolving faster than ever, and strategies that worked a year ago may now be holding your brand back. If you want to stay ahead, it’s time to ditch outdated tactics and adopt the latest trends. Here are the Instagram strategies you need to abandon in 2025 to ensure maximum engagement, reach, and conversions.

1. Focusing Solely on Aesthetic Feeds

The era of perfectly curated, overly polished grids is over. While aesthetics still matter, users are now engaging more with authentic, raw, and unfiltered content. The focus has shifted to storytelling, behind-the-scenes content, and personality-driven posts rather than just a visually appealing profile.

2. Relying Only on Hashtags for Discovery

Hashtags used to be the primary way to increase reach, but with Instagram’s evolving algorithm, they no longer guarantee visibility. Instead, Instagram’s AI-driven search now prioritizes keywords in captions and bios. Optimize your profile with relevant keywords and create engaging content that encourages shares and saves.

3. Posting Without a Video-First Strategy

Static images are still relevant, but video content dominates Instagram. Reels, live videos, and interactive stories outperform traditional posts in engagement. Brands need to shift to short-form videos, incorporating trending sounds, interactive elements, and AI-generated video content to stay ahead.

4. Overloading Stories with Too Many Slides

While Instagram Stories remain crucial, overwhelming followers with excessive slides reduces retention. In 2025, concise, high-impact Stories that deliver value in fewer frames will perform better. Utilize interactive stickers, polls, and quizzes to boost engagement rather than posting endless slides.

5. Ignoring AI-Powered Content Creation

AI-generated content, from captions to video scripts, is transforming Instagram marketing. Brands that fail to leverage AI tools for personalization, automation, and trend analysis will fall behind. Use AI to optimize posting times, analyze audience behavior, and generate high-performing content ideas.

6. Buying Fake Followers & Engagement

Artificially inflating numbers with bots is no longer a viable growth strategy. Instagram’s algorithm can detect fake engagement, leading to reduced visibility or even account restrictions. Instead, focus on genuine interactions, community building, and collaborations to grow your audience organically.

7. Overlooking Instagram’s New Features

Instagram constantly rolls out new tools like Broadcast Channels, AR filters, and enhanced shopping integrations. Sticking to old methods without utilizing these innovations means missing out on potential engagement and monetization opportunities. Stay updated and integrate new features into your strategy.

8. Ignoring DM Automation & Community Engagement

Automated responses and chatbots are now essential for scaling engagement and sales on Instagram. Brands that fail to implement DM automation to handle inquiries, bookings, or customer support are missing out on conversion opportunities. Personalized interactions remain key, but automation enhances efficiency.

Final Thoughts

Instagram success in 2025 requires a shift from outdated, generic strategies to personalized, interactive, and AI-driven content. The platform is prioritizing engagement over vanity metrics, so brands must focus on genuine connections, video-first content, and smart automation to thrive.

[freenewsreport]

Emma Beddington: A Journey of Wit, Writing, and Self-Discovery

Emma Beddington has mastered the art of transforming life’s twists and turns into compelling stories. As a renowned journalist, author, and keen observer of everyday life, she’s celebrated for her sharp wit and relatable writing. Whether tackling the complexities of modern family dynamics or navigating cultural quirks, Emma Beddington effortlessly blends humor and vulnerability in her work, making her narratives deeply engaging. Her authentic voice resonates with readers, offering a mix of laughter, honesty, and heartfelt moments. Emma Beddington’s unique ability to find beauty in the chaos of life has earned her a dedicated following, cementing her reputation as a literary talent to watch. Through her articles, memoirs, and blogs, she invites us into her world, encouraging readers to embrace life’s imperfections with grace and a good dose of humor.

Who Is Emma Beddington?

Emma Beddington is a British writer whose work often explores themes of identity, family, and the messy beauty of ordinary life. Her career spans journalism, blogging, and books, each reflecting her knack for observing the world with a mix of humor and honesty.

Early Beginnings

Emma’s love for words blossomed early, shaped by a childhood surrounded by books.

Her educational path led her to law, but her true calling lay elsewhere—a realization that came with time.

The Leap to Writing

Swapping legal briefs for a blank page, Emma embraced writing as her true passion. It wasn’t just a career shift but a profound change that allowed her to explore life in her voice.

The Charm of Emma’s Writing

Emma Beddington’s work resonates because it’s personal yet universal. She has a gift for capturing the hilarity and heartbreak of everyday moments.

Relatable Themes

Her writing often dives into:

Navigating modern family dynamics.

Adapting to cultural differences.

Finding humor in life’s hiccups.

Unfiltered Honesty

Readers are drawn to Emma because she doesn’t sugarcoat life’s challenges. Whether discussing motherhood or her personal battles, her candor is refreshing.

The Success of “We’ll Always Have Paris”

Emma’s memoir We’ll Always Have Paris is a testament to her storytelling prowess.

A Love Letter to France: The book chronicles her journey from dreaming of Parisian chic to the realities of living in France.

Laughter and Tears: Packed with amusing anecdotes, it also explores deeper emotions, like belonging and identity.

Critical Acclaim: Praised for its humor and insight, the memoir solidified Emma’s place in contemporary literature.

Emma’s Blog: A Digital Home for Her Wit

Before her memoir, Emma built her audience through her blog. It became a space where her voice could shine freely.

Why Blogs Matter

In an age of fleeting social media trends, blogs like Emma’s remind us of the enduring power of personal stories.

Challenges Along the Way

Behind every successful writer is a journey filled with obstacles. Emma Beddington’s path was no different.

Balancing Act: Like many writers, she juggled personal responsibilities and creative ambitions.

Rejection and Resilience: The publishing world isn’t always kind, but Emma’s perseverance paid off.

Lessons from Emma Beddington

What can we learn from Emma’s journey?

Embrace Change: Life’s unexpected detours can lead to incredible opportunities.

Find Your Voice: Authenticity is key—Emma’s writing is proof of that.

Laugh Through It: Humor can be a powerful tool for navigating challenges.

What’s Next for Emma?

Emma continues to inspire with her work. Whether through new articles, books, or social media musings, her voice remains a beacon for those seeking connection and laughter.

Conclusion

Emma Beddington’s story is a testament to the power of following your passion and embracing life’s imperfections. Her wit, warmth, and wisdom remind us that even in chaos, there’s beauty—and maybe a good laugh waiting to be found.

[pmam365]

How to Promote Your Business in 2025?

How to Promote Your Business in 2025?

As we enter 2025, the landscape of business promotion continues to evolve rapidly. With technological advances, shifts in consumer behavior, and new marketing platforms emerging, it’s crucial for businesses to stay ahead of the curve. In this guide, we’ll explore the most effective strategies to promote your business in 2025, covering both timeless approaches and the newest trends that will define the year.

1. Leverage Artificial Intelligence and Automation

Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer just a buzzword—it's a powerful tool that can help businesses streamline their marketing efforts. From personalized email campaigns to AI-powered chatbots, businesses can use AI to create tailored experiences for customers and drive engagement.

How to use AI:

AI-powered ads: Use machine learning to optimize your ad campaigns in real-time, targeting specific demographics more accurately.

Chatbots and customer service: Implement AI-driven chatbots to provide 24/7 customer support and streamline communication.

Predictive analytics: Use AI to analyze customer behavior and predict trends, helping you plan future promotions more effectively.

By integrating AI into your promotional strategy, you can improve customer experiences, increase conversion rates, and save time.

2. Embrace Social Media Evolution

Social media is still one of the most effective ways to promote your business, but the platforms themselves are constantly changing. In 2025, video content will continue to dominate, and platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and even new entrants will be at the forefront of this shift.

What you can do:

Live streaming: Engage with your audience in real-time through live broadcasts on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok. These can be used for product launches, Q&A sessions, or behind-the-scenes content.

Short-form videos: Take advantage of short-form video content to grab attention quickly. TikTok and Instagram Reels are great for showcasing your brand in a fun and engaging way.

Social commerce: Directly sell products through social media platforms. Many platforms now offer integrated e-commerce features, allowing you to make sales without leaving the app.

Social media is a key player in promoting your business, and adapting to new features and trends will keep you relevant.

3. Focus on Video Marketing and Storytelling

Video has become an essential marketing tool, and its importance will only continue to grow. The demand for engaging video content is higher than ever, especially with the rise of platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram.

Video marketing tips:

Product demos: Show your product in action, highlighting its benefits and features in a clear, engaging way.

User-generated content: Encourage customers to share their experiences with your brand through video. This creates authentic content that builds trust.

Storytelling: Share your brand’s story through a compelling video narrative. People connect with stories, and this emotional connection can translate into loyalty.

Investing in high-quality video content and telling your brand's story in a compelling way will help you connect with customers on a deeper level.

4. Incorporate Sustainability into Your Brand

In 2025, consumers are increasingly prioritizing sustainability. Businesses that demonstrate a commitment to environmental responsibility can build a loyal customer base and stand out in a crowded marketplace.

Steps to go green:

Sustainable products: If possible, offer eco-friendly products that minimize environmental impact.

Transparent practices: Showcase your efforts toward sustainability, whether it’s using recycled packaging or reducing your carbon footprint.

Community involvement: Partner with environmental organizations or take part in green initiatives to enhance your brand’s image.

Being a responsible business can be a powerful promotional tool that resonates with environmentally-conscious consumers.

5. Hyper-Personalization Using Data

In 2025, generic marketing messages will no longer suffice. Consumers expect brands to understand their needs and preferences, and they expect highly personalized experiences. By leveraging data, businesses can deliver tailored content and offers that resonate on an individual level.

How to implement:

Customer segmentation: Use customer data to create segmented marketing campaigns that speak directly to specific groups.

Personalized email marketing: Use behavioral data to send customized email campaigns that are relevant to each subscriber.

Dynamic website content: Serve up personalized content based on a customer’s previous interactions with your website, such as recommendations for products they may be interested in.

By creating hyper-personalized experiences, you can build stronger relationships with your customers and drive more sales.

6. Influencer and Micro-Influencer Marketing

Influencer marketing is still a key strategy in 2025, but there’s been a shift towards working with micro-influencers. These influencers have smaller, but highly engaged audiences, and their endorsements often feel more authentic.

How to collaborate:

Find the right influencers: Look for influencers who align with your brand values and resonate with your target audience.

Micro-influencers: These influencers typically have smaller but more dedicated audiences. They often offer a higher return on investment (ROI) for businesses due to their niche focus.

Long-term partnerships: Instead of one-off collaborations, consider forming long-term relationships with influencers who can consistently promote your brand over time.

Influencers can help you reach new audiences, build trust, and generate buzz for your products or services.

7. Adopt a Hybrid Approach to Offline and Online Promotion

While digital marketing continues to be a dominant force, offline marketing still plays an important role in promoting your business. The key in 2025 will be to create an integrated, hybrid strategy that blends both online and offline methods.

Hybrid marketing strategies:

Events and pop-ups: Host live events, pop-up shops, or brand activations that tie in with your online promotions. These events can help you build real-world connections while also driving traffic to your website.

QR codes and augmented reality (AR): Use QR codes to link offline experiences to digital content, such as offering discounts or exclusive content through AR experiences when customers visit your store.

Local SEO: Focus on hyper-local promotions and listings, ensuring your business appears when local customers search for relevant keywords.

A hybrid approach allows you to reach customers both online and offline, maximizing your marketing potential.

8. Optimize for Voice Search

With the rise of voice assistants like Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant, voice search is becoming more prevalent. By 2025, optimizing for voice search will be essential for businesses looking to stay competitive.

How to optimize:

Conversational keywords: People use natural language when making voice searches, so incorporate long-tail, conversational keywords into your website and content.

Local search optimization: Many voice searches are location-based. Make sure your business is properly listed on local search platforms and Google My Business.

Featured snippets: Aim to appear in the featured snippets that often appear at the top of voice search results.

Optimizing for voice search will ensure that your business is easily discoverable in the growing world of voice-activated devices.

Conclusion

Promoting your business in 2025 requires a mix of cutting-edge technology, creativity, and adaptability. By embracing AI, leveraging video content, focusing on sustainability, and integrating both online and offline strategies, your business can effectively reach and engage customers. Remember, the key to success is staying ahead of the trends, continually refining your approach, and delivering value to your audience. With these strategies in hand, your business will be well-positioned for growth and success in 2025 and beyond.

Click here for Demo How to Promote Your Business in 2025?

[trendingblogzosumare]

Creating Viral Content in 2025: Strategies That Actually Work

In the ever-evolving world of digital marketing, creating viral content is the holy grail. Content that goes viral can catapult your brand into the spotlight, reaching millions of people in a short amount of time and driving significant engagement and conversions. But with the vast amount of content being shared daily, standing out from the crowd has become increasingly challenging. So, what are the strategies that actually work to create viral content in 2025? Let’s dive into proven tactics that can help your content go viral and build your brand’s reach.

1. Understand the Current Content Trends

The digital landscape is constantly shifting, with new trends emerging all the time. Staying up-to-date with what’s trending in your industry and among your audience is key to creating content that resonates. In 2025, some of the dominant trends include:

Short-form video content (think TikTok and Instagram Reels)

Interactive and engaging stories

Personalized content

Sustainability and socially responsible messaging

Micro-content (bite-sized content that delivers quick value)

By aligning your content with current trends, you increase your chances of it being discovered, shared, and gaining traction.

2. Create Emotionally Resonant Content

At the heart of every successful viral piece is emotional resonance. Content that sparks emotions—whether it’s joy, surprise, anger, or sadness—tends to perform better because people are more likely to share content that they feel strongly connected to. Think of creating content that:

Tugs at heartstrings

Inspires

Empowers

Relates to common struggles By connecting with your audience emotionally, your content has a better chance of going viral.

3. Use Visual Storytelling

Visual content is more powerful than ever. People are naturally drawn to images, videos, and infographics, as they help convey messages quickly and memorably. Use visual storytelling to bring your message to life, making it more engaging and shareable. Utilize platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok, where visual content thrives, to showcase your brand’s story.

4. Leverage User-Generated Content (UGC)

User-generated content can be one of the most effective ways to go viral. When your audience creates and shares content about your brand, it not only builds authenticity but also increases visibility. Encourage your followers to create content around your brand, and share it on your channels. This type of content naturally spreads, as others see it and want to join in.

5. Focus on Authenticity and Transparency

In 2025, authenticity is more important than ever. Consumers crave transparency and genuine connections with brands. Creating content that reflects real experiences—whether it's behind-the-scenes looks, authentic customer stories, or unfiltered brand values—can quickly resonate with your audience. Authenticity builds trust and encourages others to share your content.

6. Optimize for SEO and Distribution

Creating SEO-optimized content is crucial to making your content discoverable. Ensure your content includes relevant keywords, meta descriptions, and tags that align with what your audience is searching for. Pair this with distribution strategies—use social media, email campaigns, and other digital channels to amplify your content and drive traffic.

7. Create Interactive Experiences

Interactive content can significantly boost engagement. Whether it’s quizzes, polls, interactive infographics, or AR filters, content that allows users to actively engage with it tends to go viral faster. Interactive experiences not only capture attention but also encourage sharing as users invite others to participate.

8. Tap into Influencer Collaborations

Partnering with influencers has been a tried-and-true method for content amplification. In 2025, micro-influencers with niche audiences are gaining more traction due to their highly engaged followers. Collaborating with influencers who align with your brand can help you tap into new audiences and create content that spreads rapidly.

9. Use Humor and Memes

Humor remains a powerful tool in content marketing. Memes, relatable jokes, and funny videos can easily catch fire and become widely shared. If done tastefully and aligned with your brand’s voice, humor can turn your content into something that’s both entertaining and viral.

10. Partner with a Digital Marketing Agency in Nashik

To effectively create viral content, you need a solid strategy, execution, and distribution plan. osumare is the digital marketing agency in Nashik that can help you craft and execute a content strategy designed to go viral. Our team of experts understands the nuances of creating shareable content, using data-driven insights to ensure your campaigns hit the right notes.

At nashik.osumare.com, we specialize in content creation, SEO optimization, social media marketing, and influencer collaborations, ensuring your brand reaches the right audience and drives meaningful engagement.

Conclusion

Creating viral content in 2025 requires a combination of strategy, creativity, and the right distribution channels. By understanding current trends, focusing on emotional resonance, using visual storytelling, and leveraging UGC, you can create content that stands out and spreads rapidly. Pair this with optimized SEO practices and distribution strategies, and you have a winning formula.

Partner with osumare the best digital marketing agency in Nashik, to take your content to the next level and ensure it captures the attention it deserves.

Visit nashik.osumare.com to learn more about how we can help you create content that goes viral!

[sarin-n-v17]

Data Privacy and Digital Marketing in 2025: Navigating New Regulations

In 2025, the digital marketing landscape is more privacy-conscious than ever. With new data regulations, evolving consumer expectations, and advanced privacy technologies, marketers are being challenged to balance personalization with ethical practices. Let’s explore what these changes mean for businesses and how you can adapt to this privacy-first era.

The Growing Importance of Data Privacy

Consumers are more aware of how their data is collected, used, and shared. They’re demanding transparency and control, while governments worldwide are enacting stricter regulations to protect personal information. Laws like GDPR in Europe, CCPA in California, and newer frameworks emerging globally are setting the tone for how businesses must handle user data.

For marketers, this means rethinking strategies that once relied on extensive data collection and third-party tracking. Instead, it’s about building trust and ensuring compliance with these new standards.

Key Challenges for Marketers in 2025

Stricter Regulations New laws are setting higher standards for data collection, storage, and sharing. For example, consent must be explicitly obtained, and consumers have more rights to access, correct, or delete their data.

The Death of Third-Party Cookies Major browsers have phased out third-party cookies, making traditional methods of tracking user behavior obsolete. Marketers now need to find alternatives for targeting and attribution.

Consumer Trust Consumers expect businesses to be transparent about how their data is used. Any breach of trust can damage a brand’s reputation, making ethical data practices a competitive advantage.

Tech Adaptations Companies must invest in privacy-focused technologies, such as secure data storage solutions, encryption, and tools for managing consumer consent.

Adapting to the Privacy-First Era

Embrace First-Party Data Focus on collecting data directly from your audience through website interactions, email subscriptions, and loyalty programs. First-party data is more reliable and comes with user consent, making it compliant with privacy regulations.

Invest in Consent Management Platforms (CMPs) CMPs help you manage user consent and preferences in line with regulations. These tools ensure you stay transparent and give users control over their data.

Adopt Privacy-Enhanced Ad Platforms Many ad platforms, like Google and Facebook, are introducing privacy-friendly solutions such as aggregated reporting and AI-driven audience targeting. Learn to leverage these tools while respecting user privacy.

Focus on Content Marketing Create valuable, engaging content that draws users in naturally. When users find your content helpful, they’re more likely to share their information willingly.

Educate Your Team Ensure your marketing team understands the nuances of privacy laws and ethical data practices. Regular training can help avoid costly mistakes and keep your strategies compliant.

Opportunities in a Privacy-Conscious World

While the shift toward data privacy might seem restrictive, it also opens new opportunities. Brands that prioritize transparency and ethical practices can build deeper trust and loyalty with their customers. By respecting privacy, you’re not just complying with laws—you’re showing your audience that you value their rights.

Moreover, focusing on creative, authentic marketing strategies that don’t rely heavily on personal data can set you apart. From storytelling to community building, this is your chance to connect with audiences on a human level.

Looking Ahead

Data privacy is no longer an afterthought—it’s a fundamental part of digital marketing in 2025. The brands that succeed will be those that embrace the change, innovate responsibly, and prioritize their customers’ trust.

Are you ready to navigate the future of digital marketing in a privacy-first world? Let’s start a conversation in the comments below!

[hydaust]

Custom Printed Boxes vs. Generic Packaging: Why Branding Matters

While a quality product is essential, the importance of packaging cannot be overstated. It's the first physical interaction a customer has with your brand, and it can significantly impact. This is where the choice between custom printed boxes and generic packaging becomes crucial.

You're right, the previous response was a bit generic. Let's dive deeper into the strategic advantages of custom printed boxes and explore why they're more than just a pretty face for your product.

Optimized Protection and Cost Efficiency

Unlike custom printed packaging, generic packaging often means using standard-sized boxes with void fill to protect your product. This can lead to:

Increased shipping costs: Larger boxes mean higher dimensional weight, costing you more.

Material waste: Excess packaging materials like bubble wrap or packing peanuts are used.

Higher risk of damage: Products may shift during transit despite void fill.

Custom packaging allows for right-sized boxes, minimizing these issues. This translates to:

Lower shipping costs: Optimized dimensions reduce dimensional weight.

Reduced material usage: Less need for void fill, saving on material costs and waste.

Superior product protection: Snug fit minimizes movement during shipping, reducing damage claims and returns.

For example, a cosmetics company could design a custom box with inserts specifically moulded to hold delicate compacts and bottles, eliminating the need for excessive bubble wrap and ensuring products arrive intact.

Targeted Marketing and Brand Storytelling

Custom packaging offers a unique opportunity to communicate with your target audience and tell your brand story. Consider these examples:

A sustainable food brand: Could use recycled cardboard with soy-based inks, printing information about their eco-friendly practices and certifications directly on the box.

A luxury fashion brand: Might opt for rigid boxes with magnetic closures and embossing, creating a high-end feel that reflects the product's quality.

A subscription box service: Can design boxes with interactive elements, like QR codes that lead to exclusive content or gamified unboxing experiences.

By tailoring the packaging to your specific audience and brand values, you create a stronger connection and enhance brand loyalty.

By partnering with the right supplier and considering the strategic advantages of custom packaging, you can transform a simple box into a powerful marketing tool that drives brand growth and customer loyalty.

Source

[mariyamavliwala]

Blog #08- Colour as Narrative

When I decided to explore 'Everything Everywhere All At Once' for this blog, it wasn’t just about celebrating a brilliant film. It was about delving into how visual language, particularly colour, can act as a powerful narrative tool. This film felt like a masterclass in using colour and cinematography to guide audiences emotionally and philosophically. It’s a benchmark not just for cinema but for creative media as a whole.

Watching 'Everything Everywhere All At Once' felt like encountering a visual language so fluent that it could express the chaos and meaning of existence itself. The film’s audacious use of colour made me reflect on how I could push the boundaries of visual storytelling in my own work.

Released in March 2022, Everything Everywhere All At Once is a sci-fi-comedy-drama that defies categorization. It follows Evelyn Wang, a middle-aged Chinese immigrant and a laundromat owner struggling with tax issues, family conflict, and existential despair—until she’s thrust into the multiverse. Evelyn discovers she must connect with parallel versions with of herself to save all of existence from collapsing into the void of meaninglessness, embodied by the "everything bagel". Ultimately, this film is about finding your way through the absurdity of life while hanging onto the relationships and personal growth. It’s a deeply impactful human story wrapped in the dazzling shell of chaos of multiversal action and absurdist humour. Its genre-bending nature mirrors the fragmented reality it portrays, making it a rich text for analysis.

The Role of Colour in Storytelling

One of the film’s standout features is its exceptional use of colour to define emotional states and universes. Larkin Seiple’s cinematography turns each multiverse into its own distinct visual realm:

The IRS Universe- Dominated by muted grays and beiges, this universe reflects Evelyn’s mundane and oppressive reality. The lifeless palette reflects her sense of imprisonment and immobility.

Hot Dog Fingers Universe- This absurd and comedic reality explodes with vibrant, almost cartoonish colours, enhancing its surreal and grotesque humour. The garish hues make the ridiculousness of this universe unforgettable.

Rock Universe- The absence of colour and sound creates a stark, minimalist world. It’s a place of retreat and reflection, a visual pause from the film’s chaotic energy. The black-and-white imagery underscores the serenity of simply existing.

Throughout the film, colour shifts dynamically to reflect Evelyn’s emotional journey. Saturated tones heighten the intensity of fight scenes, while soft pastels bring warmth to moments of connection. This deliberate use of colour not only distinguishes each universe but also immerses the viewer in Evelyn’s tumultuous inner world.

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Philosophical Depth and Emotional Symbolism

The power of this movie is in its ability to communicate philosophical ideas on a visual level. One of the most poignant moments is the "rock scene," wherein Evelyn and her daughter Joy exist as lifeless rocks in a barren landscape. Many interpret this as Evelyn hitting "rock bottom," but it goes much deeper. The scene symbolizes her active decision to run away from the overwhelming burden of her interwoven lives. In a universe that has no emotions, responsibilities, and chaos-where being a rock was enough-she finds peace. It's not exactly "rock bottom"; it's an escape from the overwhelming burden of existence, a retreat back to a universe where nothing will be required of them, and that simplicity can be profoundly comforting.

And then, of course, there is nihilism: the thematic element of the "everything bagel," denoting that nothing matters. The everything bagel is the almost comic imagery of the futility and randomness in life. Although the film captures the horrible terror of the world where anything is possible and nothing is fixed, it also offers in return the possibility to choose in a freedom-meaning and connection. This dichotomy-chairs and hope-really resonated with me. But instead of succumbing to despair, the film counters this with a message of hope: If nothing matters, then we are free to choose what matters to us. This balance between chaos and meaning resonated deeply with me, whose life is often overcome by the demands of creative work.

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Why This Film Resonates with Me

The part that inspired me the most about this film is that its truly remarkable visual effects were accomplished by a mere team of five individuals. Numerous viewers and critics on YouTube and Reddit mentioned that this small team succeeded in surpassing industry giants such as Disney, Warner Bros, Universal, and Sony. This clearly demonstrates that enthusiasm and innovation can outpace large budgets and resources.

Aside from its technical excellence, the film’s story and imagery resonate profoundly with modern cultural discussions. It redefines conventional storytelling by placing a middle-aged immigrant woman at the forefront as its hero, breaking stereotypes regarding who can be the main character in a sci-fi epic. Evelyn’s challenge to harmonize her cultural and generational identity with her own ambitions mirrors a common human experience. Thus, this investigation of identity seemed especially significant as I traverse my own artistic path in a world that is becoming ever more intricate. The film is absurd, random, and just like life, very unpredictable; it is within this chaos that beauty and meaning can be found. Overall, as mentioned previously in the blog, the role of colour, cinematography, and narrative complexity as instruments that expand the limits of what cinema can accomplish.

Sources:

Screenrant. (2022). Everything Everywhere All At Once: The Real Meaning Explained. Available at: https://screenrant.com/everything-everywhere-all-at-once-real-meaning-explained/ (Accessed: 26 December 2024)

The New York Times. (2022). Review: Everything Everywhere All At Once. Available at: https://www.nytimes.com/2022/03/24/movies/everything-everywhere-all-at-once-review.html (Accessed: 26 December 2024)

Kuegler, T. (2022). Why Everything Everywhere All At Once Is Addicted To Color And What It Means. Medium. Available at: https://tomkuegler.medium.com/why-everything-everywhere-all-at-once-is-addicted-to-color-and-what-it-means-cdb07dd475c0 (Accessed: 26 December 2024)

Backstage. (2022). Interview with the Cinematographer of Everything Everywhere All At Once. Available at: https://www.backstage.com/magazine/article/everything-everywhere-all-at-once-cinematographer-interview-75933/ (Accessed: 26 December 2024)

WIRED. (2022). The Making of Everything Everywhere All At Once. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hFFopPPrGiE&ab_channel=WIRED (Accessed: 26 December 2024)

ThomasFlight. (2022). Cinematography Breakdown of Everything Everywhere All At Once. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VvclV0_o0JE&ab_channel=ThomasFlight (Accessed: 26 December 2024)