Feature: Contributed Article

Grim.TV's line of new programming genres is specifically designed to engage and empower viewers - by providing what they refer to as the "three O's": Options, Opportunity, and Ownership. For example, Grim.TV's "Hydra" line of programs utilize multiple video streams running in tandem, which allows a participant to switch between character perspectives at any time and investigate the larger story.

Consider the series "PLUR," a comedic-drama series about "rave" culture made for Hallmark Entertainment, which follows the exploits of 3 main characters - Cody, Rebecca, and Chad (more info at http://www.plurshow.com).Viewers have the Option to remain passive in the 'lean back' mode and watch any of the character streams as a stand-alone episode (Note: each video 'track' is a complete television experience, and can therefore be broadcast as a traditional linear program making it accessible to terrestrial customers as well as allowing the passive viewer the option of enjoying the show without having to 'do' anything.) However, the opportunity exists within the program for viewers to become participants - they can begin in any character stream they choose and switch between them at will and in real-time - thus discovering more levels to the tale. Most importantly, participants discover they have a vested interest in the program and ownership in being able to craft their investigation into each of the 3 character streams. Particularly in an IP-based platform environment (which is not required for this platform to work), where a subscriber's "version" of the program can be stored as an index file that tracks when and where switching occurs, ownership is a incredible driver of interest. Links to personalized versions can be forwarded, for example, to family and friends sparking viral campaigns imbued with significant meaning. In this type of VOD system, the 3 O's are even more critical.

In conjunction with their "Hydra" line of multi-perspective programs, Grim.TV has developed the "Medusa" genre, which features a central stream with auxiliary or "breakout" material available throughout the program and can include alternate realities, animation, "reality" footage, behind-the-scenes action, games, fashion, or supplemental character information. It can be accessed by stopping the central stream, interacting with the auxiliary material, and returning to the same point of departure. Again, these programs do not require interactivity for a complete experience. Future Grim.TV entertainment will focus on user-influenced environments, characters, and real-time storylines through their "Muse" line of products. Also, look for Grim.TV's "vidicon" library of "conversational video" - clips less than 2 seconds long that can be assembled by the participant to create dynamic personal messages for 3G devices of all kinds.

Though traditional television will not go extinct anytime in the near future, digital television and IP broadband are creating a palette of possibilities for program creators, aggregators, designers, advertisers, and platform owners. Grim.TV is providing innovative approaches to narrative and episodic programs that have never been possible before now. With further deployment of PVR-enabled STBs, IP-based digital television, and VOD, it is clear that the culture of the actualized audience is imminent. Only providers who embrace the empowered viewer and supply dynamic enhanced content will survive.

Visit http://www.grim.tv or email info@grim.tv to discuss.

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