We all have our favorite commercials or tv programs. Growing up in the 1980’s, shows went through periods of great popularity, and at times, rapid decline. I remember the ALF craze, which my daughter wants to get into. I am resisting and holding ground. Then there was Miami Vice – which still lives on in my house, much to my wife’s dismay. And real quality television, like Sledge Hammer, Mike Hammer and Saturday morning cartoons.

However, the landscape has changed. As soon as cable tv and high speed internet access became more common, the shape of what we watch and how we watch video began to change. Likewise, the kinds of videos that “work” or resonate with us as viewers, has also changed.

After just having watched a very funny video of one of my colleagues (discovered by another colleague who searched YouTube), I got to thinking about the kinds of videos we watch online and on television, and what really works for us and what does not. Is it humor, drama, pop culture? Or is there something more complex at issue here?

To answer that question, I’ve decided to review some videos that I have enjoyed recently online to see if I can identify any common themes. Your comments are encouraged, as are your own video selections… And no porn or attachments please!

Email me at: mike@hackmer.com

VIDEO 1
Rabbit Bites: An Interview with William Redpath