The Audience

The Audience

Who creates the content the media or the audience?

The media create the content that we see as an audience. The gatekeepers are the final stage on the assembly line and they decide what is shown to us and how it is presented to the audience. On the other hand, the audience has a huge influence on the content that the media produces therefore some may argue it is the audience that controls the content.

Can the media exist/function without an audience? Can an audience (public) exist/function without media?

An audience cannot exist without the media because the media must produce something that appeals to a group, this group becomes the audience. In addition, the media cannot function without an audience because a media production company would step into bankruptcy if they do not gain popularity therefore decreasing sponsors.

Who is more powerful: the media or the audience why/how?

The audience is arguably more powerful because audiences dictate what the media produces. The media will look at the latest trends all over the world and then produce work which will appeal to a large audience in order to gain revenue.

Can the media control an audience? 

In my opinion, the media can influence what an audience wants to see therefore they control the audience to an extent. However, the media must follow latest trends in order to gain an audience in the first place, this explains how social media controls what topics appeal to the audience.

Uses & Gratifications

When looking at this theory we can use an acronym known as 'PIES'. This stands for Personal identification, Information, Entertainment and Social Interaction. One way in which personal identification applies to me is that I must go and watch the latest films or series in order to keep up to date with the latest trends in the media. 

Furthermore, I will sometimes read articles on BBC News online to gather information on the important things that are happening in the world right now. For example, I have looked into the reason behind the ongoing conflict in Syria whereas previously it did not concern me as it is taking place on the other side of the world. 

As for entertainment, I enjoy watching sport related media either on TV or on social media. This is because sport, football in particular, is one of my many hobbies and anything linking with football entertains me. Using social media I am constantly informed with the latest news and rumours via Twitter, Facebook or even the Sky Sports App. 

Finally, in terms of social interaction, it is important for me to know about the latest celebrity news in order to spark conversation between friends at school or colleagues at work. In my opinion, this is important because it gives the opportunity to share interests and opinions on very popular topics at any given time.

Film & You Task