Since the creation and wide-spread usage of the internet by people all over the world, information and creativity, as well as the distribution of both, has blossomed immensely. One facet of this spreading creativity is that of the web-based television show. This medium has a tendency to be comedic in nature, being the genre most easily expressed and digested in the common short episode times featured. Unlike its mainstream broadcast counterpart, the web-based television series is historically noted for its low production values, most shows starting out in a YouTube sort of fashion or featured on independent websites. However, over the years, web shows have grown in general popularity. A notable example of this is 'lonlygirl15,' which eventually received commercial attention and sponsorship. Before its end, 'lonelygirl15' garnered over 100 million views in a little more than two years. Web television has risen still further in popularity, with numerous spin-offs and other ideas thrown into the mix. It now even has its own awards program, called the Streamy Awards.
Among the countless web programs in existence today, there are a few that stand out. 'Homestarrunner.com' is a flash-cartoon series based upon unique characters and their interactions. Most notable about this site is that they have never utilized any method of sponsorship. Their popularity has been spread entirely by reputation, and they have become self-sustaining on merchandise. The series has several features, most popular being Strong Bad Emails, but does numerous other short 'toons' with the other characters. The show is quite successful in its humorous attempt, but it tends towards young-adult, clean humor. Very little can be found offensive about it, but that is not always what people are looking for.
A more raunchy or risque style of humor can be found in the machinima series 'Red vs. Blue'. There is foul language and violence to be had for the viewer who prefers it. The series is based upon and filmed using the video game 'Halo,' and has had numerous seasons. It provides an example of a show that is not self-sustaining; it is intensely popular, but the various creators still retain their own jobs.
Breaking into the middle-ground of this is the live-action web-television series featured on YouTube known as 'The Guild.' It is another comedy show based upon a 'World of Warcraft' guild that meets in real life and is put together by a group of improvisation artists. The jokes in the program do not always succeed, and some fall entirely flat, but overall the show is generally funny and compelling.
One of the few web programs to escape from the comedy genre is the science-fiction/fantasy story 'Sanctuary.' This live-action show, created by the producer and director of the 'Stargate' series, follows the story of terrifying and monstrous creatures both human and not and the struggle to confine the malicious ones and protect the benign. The show's success lead the Sci-Fi channel to pick it up for traditional television broadcast. However, typical of the genre, sometimes the acting leaves something to be desired.
Since its creation, web television has seen remarkable changes. Even though today there are still dozens of ignored or fledgling shows, a few have broken through and become intensely popular. As the internet continues to expand, this style of programming can do nothing but grow.
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