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Hot Takes




Did the Streamys neglect up-and-coming YouTubers?

These award winners have more in common with the traditional studio production model than with the innovative, accessible spirit of online video. These productions are not bad or in the wrong by any stretch of the imagination – they simply don’t align with The Streamy’s stated creator-centric intentions. 



Facebook might kill you: Horror movies reflect online realities

So what is Unfriended, and why is it garnering so much praise while Friend Request is failing despite its similar subject matter? More importantly: what’s the deal with Facebook suddenly being scary and what does this new trend of Facebook focused horror movies say about the fears of modern society? 



'American Vandal' is a who-done-it done impressively well

Despite a less-than-satisfying mystery, ‘American Vandal’ is a sight to behold with its strong array of actors and its multitude of genuinely funny moments. While the show may not win any Emmys, it is a solid entry in the Netflix catalog. This fantastic comedy is great for passing time and even better for passing time with friends. 


'Aho-Girl': Old formula, novel presentation, great execution

'Aho-Girl', with its great animation, light story, simple plot, half-length episodes, and slapstick humor could keep anyone entertained through its first twelve-episode season. With an array of characters that cover a large range of personality types, there’s something new and funny in every episode that this light-hearted comedy has to offer for both seasoned veterans and anime initiates alike.


No answers: YouTube blocks LGBT content

“Some of the demonetization I understand and is completely fair based on YouTube’s user guidelines, the issue is that it does not tell you for individual videos what caused it to be flagged.” They told me in an email this weekend. Currently, the only context creators are given as to why their videos have been demonetized is the message, “not suitable for all advertisers.”



Xbox Live Indie Games shuts down tomorrow

Microsoft has since transitioned to the “ID@XBOX” program, which Microsoft says is a more formal and managed approach to publishing independent games exclusive to the Xbox One or Windows 10.