As more filmmakers dip a toe into VR, the sheer volume of 360-degree video releases can be overwhelming. Samsung today just released its top five most viewed videos on its Samsung VR service in 2016, including The Conjuring 2 – Experience Enfield VR 360 and a couple of Six Flags rides, Twisted Colossus and Tatsu. Apparently the most-viewed video on the service in 2016 is The Beginning from Singularity Lab, which traces the birth of the world.
In addition to those, here’s a list of 10 more notable projects you might’ve missed in passive VR.
1. 360° Great Hammerhead Shark Encounter
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From: ABC and Experience360VR
Given the time of the season, it would be remiss not to end on a festive note. This experience makes a case for how to create 360-video for the masses. The host even instructs you how to “look around” and mentions a few choice exhibits. With the glittering decorations and colors, it would be hard to find a better pairing than 360-video and Christmas lights. And in some ways it makes sense – wasn’t Rudolph an early tech adopter?
3. Tomorrow, the Evolution of Language
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From: Written and directed by Adam Cosco
Cosco is a wonderful example of a VR “auteur” and KNIVES is critically acclaimed for a reason. It has great pacing, well-chosen music, and great performances. Most noteworthy is the utilization of different camera angles to give it more of a renegade feel (think Tarantino). This is a technique other VR filmmakers would be wise to add to their tool-kit. The narrative is suspenseful and demonstrates how the silver bullet of VR experiences (especially passive VR) is always story.
7. Invasion
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From: SilVR Thread VR
Studio marketing departments should have this experience on file under “how to promote a film”. So smart and succinct, and gives as much of a “rush” as any interactive VR experience. Using the demo with a skateboard (as showcased at VRLA) isn’t necessary, but adds to the fun.
Source: Venture Beat