The second annual Define American Film Festival aims to embrace virtual reality as a new medium of storytelling. Virtual reality is an immersive tool, which can elicit new emotions and connections through its ability to place the viewer inside someone else's world.
DAFF 2017 will be sharing three VR experiences, which will let guests explore an environment they otherwise might not have a chance to experience. One experience, 'Welcome to Aleppo' places the viewer on the streets of the civil-war torn Syrian city, using 360-degree virtual reality footage gathered from inside a war zone. Another experience, 'For My Son,' aims to challenge popular American misconceptions about refugees, through the virtual experience, which allows viewers to gain a new perspective.
The use of virtual reality for social good is a relatively new innovation which helps re-imagine the way people interact and perceive smart technology, as a way to connect with the world around them, instead of disconnecting.
Virtual Reality Storytelling Films
'Define American' Uses VR to Connect Guests to Social Movements
Trend Themes
1. Virtual Reality Storytelling - Expanding the use of virtual reality as a medium of storytelling to create immersive and emotionally engaging experiences.
2. Social Good Through VR - Utilizing virtual reality to challenge misconceptions and promote empathy towards social issues.
3. Re-imagining Interaction with VR - Exploring virtual reality as a tool to connect people with the world around them and shift perceptions of smart technology.
Industry Implications
1. Film and Entertainment - Opportunity for filmmakers to create powerful and immersive narratives through virtual reality storytelling.
2. Non-profit and Advocacy - Using virtual reality to create impactful experiences to drive social change and raise awareness for important causes.
3. Technology and Media - Innovation in virtual reality as a means to revolutionize digital experiences and transform the way people interact.