The rise of ‘Making Of’ Content: Streamers Embrace Behind-the-Scenes Storytelling
A growing demand for deeper engagement with film and television is driving a resurgence in behind-the-scenes content, with platforms like Dropout and established production teams leading the charge. As the industry anticipates awards season, winter television premieres, and the upcoming release of “Primate,” a renewed gratitude for the craft behind the screen is taking hold.
Why is this trend happening? Audiences are increasingly seeking a deeper understanding of the creative process behind the shows and films they enjoy. They want to know how things are made, not just what is made.
One analyst noted a shift in consumer behavior, with audiences increasingly seeking to understand the creative process behind their favorite shows and films. This trend is exemplified by the popularity of official podcasts,notably those hosted by experienced production personnel. The “Pluribus” podcast,hosted by editor Chris McCaleb – known for similar efforts during “Better Call Saul” – is being lauded for it’s extensive approach.
Who is leading this charge? Platforms like Dropout and experienced production personnel, such as editor Chris McCaleb (“Pluribus” podcast), and individuals involved in series like “Very Crucial People” (director Tamar Levine, makeup head Alex Perrone, prosthetics artist Bruce Spaulding Fuller) are at the forefront.
“It’s great stuff,” one source stated, highlighting the podcast’s dedication to showcasing the collaborative nature of filmmaking. Unlike typical behind-the-scenes content focused solely on actors and showrunners, “Pluribus” dedicates episodes to the contributions of the sound team, directors of photography, costume designers, and choreographers. The podcast aims to trace the evolution of ideas from the writing stage through pre-production, production, and post-production.
This commitment to showcasing the entire creative team is echoed by the comedy streaming service Dropout. The platform’s series “Very Importent People” is enhanced by “Last Looks” mini-episodes, which delve into the creation of each character. These segments feature interviews with key personnel like director Tamar Levine, makeup department head Alex Perrone, and prosthetics wizard Bruce Spaulding Fuller, offering insights into the intricate details of their work – from dental applications for baby teeth to the creation of alien goo.
A screenshot from ‘Very important People: Last Looks: Archimedes and Ollie’ on Dropout illustrates the detailed craftsmanship on display.
What exactly is being created? Detailed “making of” content, including podcasts like “Pluribus” and mini-episodes like “Last Looks” on Dropout, that showcase the work of all members of the creative team – not just actors and directors. This includes sound, cinematography, costume design, and more.
The emphasis on detailed making-of content addresses a long-standing frustration among media consumers: the decline of DVD commentaries and behind-the-scenes featurettes. “There’s a lot of bemoaning…about the fact that we don’t have DVD commentaries as a default part of how we consume media,” a commentator observed. The call for streamers to integrate these materials directly into their main feeds is gaining momentum, with the argument that if a film is available in multiple languages, it should also be accessible with director’s commentary. “If I can watch ‘Frankenstein’ in Spanish, Netflix, I should be able to watch it with GDT’s commentary. C’mon now.”
How did it end (or is currently unfolding)? The trend is ongoing and gaining momentum. Publications like IndieWire are dedicating coverage to the artistic elements of filmmaking, and there’s a growing call for streamers to integrate making-of content directly into their platforms, similar to language options. While a specific survey was paused, the interest remains.
