Henry Jenkins emphasizes the significant role of audiences, particularly fans, in media production, consumption, and distribution.
Fans actively participate in various aspects of media, influencing production, distribution, and interpretation.
Role of Fans
Production Influence:
Fans contribute ideas to content creators, influencing content direction (e.g., vloggers receiving video suggestions from fans).
Distribution:
Fans play a key role in sharing and promoting media products online.
Interpretation and Meaning Construction:
Fans interpret media content, share theories and ideas (e.g., predicting plot details from trailers).
They create and distribute new interpretations of the media, such as fan fiction.
Fan Fiction Example
TV Show "Humans":
Numerous fan fiction stories exist online for the show.
Common themes include characters' personal growth and adventures, particularly focusing on Mattie, a character admired by teenage girls.
Fan fiction allows fans to explore and expand upon original media stories with their interpretations.
Fan-Made Content
Videos and Online Content:
Examples include fan-made videos of YouTubers like Zoella and Alfie Deyes.
Fans engage in reviewing, editing, and discussing content, creating derivative works.
Technological Impact
Advances in technology facilitate the creation and distribution of fan-made content.
Easier access to production tools (e.g., smartphones) allows fans to generate and share their media, contributing to the widespread phenomenon of fan-made products.
Conclusion
Jenkins highlights the extensive influence fans have in shaping media landscapes through participatory culture.
The rise of fan-made products reflects the growing capability and enthusiasm among audiences to engage creatively with media.