What is Transmedia Storytelling?

There's a lot of buzz around the idea of transmedia storytelling (the simple definition is telling stories across different media platforms). Storytelling, in general, is undergoing a transformation. On some level we don't need theorists to tell us about it because it's a phenomenon happening as a result of what Henry Jenkins calls "convergence culture". But it's a powerful new wave in story so why not join the conversation?

The transmedia model is certainly impacting the way stories are being developed for the screen and although it's not new (The Matrix used the concept as far back as 1999), it is gaining momentum and being used as a strategy. Conventions are being held around the world to discuss and share ideas. There was even a panel talking about it at the 2010 ComicCon in San Diego. Instead of me blathering on about it, here are a few people in film, television and academia talking about it. Cheers!

First up is Jeff Gomez of Starlight Runner Entertainment on the transmedia model and the campaign for Coke. The Starlight "intro reel" is particularly impressive and since Starlight is helping studios like Disney create successful transmedia campaigns for their "intellectual properites" it's all about transmedia.