RYOT revolutionizes storytelling with virtual reality productions

Authenticity is no longer just strategic in grassroots campaigns — it is demanded. Convincing others of a thought position or tangible goals of a movement requires real stories, real emotions. RYOT is a perfect example of what happens when authentic storytelling is combined with innovative technology: movements progress and lives are resolutely changed.

While they do produce and create films, documentaries and short videos, RYOT is making a name for itself in the world of virtual and augmented reality. Their method of storytelling is through 360 degree videos, which quite literally bring the viewer to the forefront of the experience and give them control over the story. Although ideally viewed through VR goggles, users can also engage on their computers, tablets or mobile devices.

In what they deem their manifesto, RYOT explains that they are “creating a movement that people want to be a part of by building a community around protecting the beauty in our world.” Further, that “we don’t pretend to hide behind neutrality. We care about what happens to the world.” Their dedication to social justice is at the forefront of the storytelling efforts they aim to lead.

In a partnership with the Huffington Post, RYOT produced a compelling virtual reality film called “The Crossing,” profiling the refugee crisis and its impact on both individual refugees and the countries they are forced to relocate to. It is clear that quantifiable thought, reporting, research and care went into the final product of sharing these fragile stories. The most compelling part of virtual reality storytelling, and intentionally so, is that viewers are more in control of the experience than the storytellers are. As everyone interprets what they see differently, they have the power to move around, look at what they want, and engage in unique ways.

Other RYOT productions also tell deeply personal, specific stories, such as “I struggle where you vacation,” which walks viewers through more dilapidated parts of Puerto Rico in response to their impending debt crisis. Another is titled “State of Standing Rock” and juxtaposes the violence that individuals were subject to as they peacefully protested the pipeline. Finally, in partnership with the Sierra Club, RYOT produced “Ready for 100,” the first climate change PSA in 360 video form.

Each of these productions clearly have underlying agendas. Whether to shift the conversation regarding refugees, to force vacationers to reconsider privilege, to microcosmically draw attention to a national issue or to demonstrate the real impacts of climate change, the stories are portrayed in a completely intentional manner.

Such growing forms of storytelling demonstrate a real movement in advocacy, journalism and campaigning. Traditional forms of engaging audiences no longer suffice — people demand both authenticity and creativity. Those that can recognize the changes in the industry will be most successful in driving impactful, lasting campaigns.

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