YouTube, YouTubers and You
The online video platform YouTube has captivated the attention of billions of people around the world, fueled a new generation’s desire for fame, and transformed the way we consume, distribute, and monetize content. The documentary YouTube, YouTubers and You profiles some of the site’s most successful users and examines their impact on youth culture and content creation and consumption in general.
YouTube enjoys unprecedented global viewership. Together, these visitors watch more than 3 billion hours of content each month. These digital types can bring huge fame and fortune to many of the most famous stars on the latest platform. Celebrities were once born on the silver screen or on the music stage; today, all you need is a webcam and enthusiasm.
The film introduces us to Kwebbelkop, a young Dutch entrepreneur who announces an international user base of over 7 million. He’s one of the brightest stars on YouTube, and his fame follows him wherever he travels around the world. His lace? He brings viewers into his love of gaming and shares bits and pieces of his daily life on his personal vlog.
Each year, he joins thousands of other YouTubers, media influencers, and celebrity hopefuls at VidCon, an online video conference held in Southern California. Here, superstar YouTubers meet potential investors, advertisers and other executives eager to capitalize on their success. Many others attend just for the chance to see their favorite internet personalities up close or learn the skills they need to eventually join their ranks.
YouTube, YouTubers, and you showed us the business side of the site; a world inhabited by algorithm experts, brand marketers, and talent managers. If a company wants to attract the attention of an international audience, it must invariably play a role in the YouTube sandbox. The film also invests in the personal struggles and triumphs of the site’s content creators. The forum is fully democratic and invites participation of all ages and races. We encourage these creators to share their personal lives and insights with the world. You are the product. Success or failure, especially in very young people, can build or destroy their self-esteem.
Directed by: Nordin Lasfar
