Walt Hickey is a journalist and data expert, author of "You Are What You Watch." He dives into why China's film industry struggles to produce hits and shares his quirky experience of having an avatar in Madden NFL. The conversation explores the role of eye tracking technology in media engagement and how it impacts audience interaction. Additionally, they discuss the emotional responses to cinematic experiences, contrasting the Star Wars prequels with the originals while reflecting on cultural exports and their global influence.
Data journalism provides a fresh and unique perspective, revealing stories and news from a different starting point.
Data analysis influences movies and culture, impacting box office success, naming trends, and even local economies.
Successful cultural exports and soft power rely on artistic freedom and limited censorship, presenting political and economic implications for interconnected countries.
Deep dives
The Power of Data Journalism and Making Data Feel Fun
Data journalism offers a different perspective on reporting, providing unique insights through data analysis. It allows reporters to see the world from a different point of view. By analyzing data, reporters can tell stories and break news from a different starting point. For example, data journalism can reveal the most dangerous intersections in a town by analyzing data on all intersections, rather than relying on traditional reporting methods. It is a powerful tool that brings a fresh and unique perspective to journalism.
The Impact of Data on Movies and Culture
Data plays a significant role in movies and culture, influencing everything from box office success to audience preferences. For example, analyzing data on baby names reveals the impact of movies on naming trends. Similarly, analyzing data on cinema attendance and tourism can show the influence of movies on travel and local economies. Data analysis can also uncover patterns and changes in the film industry, such as the shift in antagonists from real countries to monsters, aliens, and robots in action movies. Data's impact on movies and culture is far-reaching and continues to shape our entertainment experiences.
Exporting Culture and Soft Power
Certain countries have been extremely successful in exporting their culture and exerting soft power. The United States and the United Kingdom are prime examples. Through their cultural exports, including films, music, and literature, these countries have shaped global perceptions and values. However, not all countries have achieved the same level of success. Countries like China, despite having a strong domestic film industry, have struggled to export their culture on a global scale. Censorship and limited artistic freedom have hindered China's soft power efforts. The ability to successfully export culture and exert soft power has political and economic implications for countries in an interconnected world.
The Role of Data in Understanding Media Consumption
Eye tracking technology offers insights into how people consume media, such as movies and TV ads. By tracking eye movements, researchers can understand viewers' attention and reactions on a granular level. For example, eye tracking studies have shown that commercials that effectively guide viewers' eye movements tend to be more highly rated. Eye tracking technology can also analyze how people watch movies, revealing the impact of framing and camera shots on viewers' experiences. Additionally, eye tracking can be used to understand emotional responses to media, shedding light on what resonates with audiences. Eye tracking technology provides a unique perspective on media consumption and enhances our understanding of how audiences engage with content.
The Pursuit of Longer, Healthier Lives and Personal Transformation
The pursuit of longer, healthier lives and personal transformation can lead to significant lifestyle changes. For some individuals, embracing new practices and seeking guidance from experts can offer opportunities for self-improvement. One example is partnering with a doctor or specialist who focuses on longevity and wellness. This partnership can involve extensive testing, personalized exercise regimens, dietary changes, and other lifestyle adjustments. While such transformations require commitment and effort, they can potentially lead to improved physical and mental well-being and quality of life.
Journalist Walt Hickey uses data to understand how culture works. He and Steve talk about why China hasn’t produced any hit movies yet and how he got his own avatar in the Madden NFL video game.
