THE FUTURE OF TRADITIONAL CINEMA IN THE ERA OF FILM STREAMING IN NIGERIA

Abstract

Traditional cinema in Nigeria is undergoing positive transformations with the advent of digital technologies, the rise in demand of audiences’ preferences, cultural and economic dynamics, and the bourgeoning film industry landscape. One propelling reason for this is film streaming. Globally, demand for online consumption of digital video-film content has risen thus impacting significantly on the patronage of traditional modes of film distribution and exhibition. Academic and film industry discourses on the future of traditional cinema in the age of film streaming have majorly centered on disruption and democratisation. Apart from the conveniences and comfort that streaming provides for subscribers, there are also conversations on the potential for streaming dominance. Consequently, there are efforts by cinemas to leverage technology to improve cinemagoers’ experiences through high-quality screen and audio equipment. Within this global discourse, few empirical studies have investigated the impact of film streaming on the future of cinema culture in Nigeria. The paper uses a qualitative approach and interviews of select content creators, exhibitors, and government regulatory agencies to investigate the current trends in traditional cinema practices, film streaming services, and their general implications for the film industry landscape. The technological determinism theory is used as the paper’s theoretical framework. The paper revealed that while film streaming has contributed to the global integration of Nigerian films, it is only complementary to the cinema whose major challenges are security and affordability. The study posits that future film exhibitions are tilting towards Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) which favours streaming platforms and poses a threat only to satellite and digital television service providers. It recommends that traditional cinema embrace hybrid exhibition models to compete with film streaming platforms. The paper contributes to the socioeconomic integration and sustainability of the Nigerian film industry.