Nalts Stalks Renetto, Defends Online Video Fiction
YouTube star Kevin Nalts is stalking other YouTube stars again. This time, he asks Paul “Renetto” Robinett how to become an A-list YouTuber.
Of course, he ends up stealing Renetto’s glasses. Watch out for them on eBay.
Nalts also posts a defense of fiction in online video, a medium traditionally associated with true-to-life videobloggers.
One rule the community established is that authenticity is a requirement. I reject that rule. Many of my videos involve fiction, and even “tricking” the viewer for a surprise effect. For example, Google Buttcrack is clearly fiction. And I didn’t get run over by a car when I hid in a trashcan.
And many of my videos are essentially bedtime stories. Make believe. I don’t disclaim them as such, because that would be awkward and would break the suspension of belief.
I do support honesty in videos to the extent that I typically “debrief” the gag. For example, I’m editing a “behind the scenes” video of the Renetto/Nalts shaved-head series. And I believe we especially have to be transparent if we’re doing a video that is sponsored by someone (fortunately my sponsors have always agreed).
But what’s wrong with drama and fiction? Doesn’t storytelling have as much of a place in online video as it does in every other medium?
Sure, I hate LonelyGirl15 — but as her 91,527 subscribers indicate, there’s clearly a niche for her kind of fiction. That’s the Long Tail of online video: there’s a niche for pretty much everything.
2 opinions for Nalts Stalks Renetto, Defends Online Video Fiction
nalts
Apr 24, 2007 at 8:07 pm
Thanks for the shout-out, Mike. I hope Renetto still has my hair on his shirt. Posted a “behind the scenes” today.
Nalts Vs. Mr. Safety on 777
Jun 4, 2007 at 7:46 am
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