Innovating Video Content: How We’re Engaging Millions Through Unique Storytelling

In the ever-evolving landscape of digital media, video content has become a cornerstone of online engagement. Our Screen Portfolio, comprising brands such as ScreenRantColliderCBR and MovieWeb, are breaking through the noise to deliver fresh, and  innovative video content that enrich our readers’ online experiences.

Our success in this endeavour is apparent when reviewing our audience reach – in 2024 alone, our Screen Portfolio reached over 380M viewers. We’ve accumulated over 25 million hours of watchtime just in 2024 because our content is recognized as a trusted authority in the entertainment space. In my article, I’ll share some insights into what our team has worked on in the last year in order to reach such vast audiences.

Reimagine the Celebrity Interview Format

Celebrity interviews have always been a go-to format for engaging viewers, but in today’s saturated market, simply chatting with a star isn’t enough. To stand out, we are re-thinking the entire format. We’re creating new content that is even more exclusive than before, offering deeper, more personal conversations, and expanding our event coverage at events like San Diego Comic Con, TIFF, and New York Comic Con.

CBR’s One of Us gets exclusive access to the nerdy collections of celebrities to show our fans these celebs really are one of us. They like the same movies and read the same comic books, and get excited about collectibles just like we do. Hosted by Kevin Polowy, our first episode features Late Night With the Devil star David Dastmalchian in an exclusive look at his ‘Nerd Room’.

Collider’s Ladies Night is hosted by Perri Nemiroff and shines a spotlight on the influential women shaping Hollywood, offering an engaging and in-depth look at their journeys. Tune in for exclusive insights from stars such as Millie Bobbi Brown, Hannah Waddingham, Natalie Dormer, Mia Goth and many more.

Through our 2024 partnership with New York Comic Con, we hosted several panels, live-streamed the entire event for real-time updates, and operated an exclusive media room offering access to one-on-one interviews with a range of celebrity guests such as, the Russo Brothers, Normand Reedus and many more.

Create Original Series That Tell Unique Stories

When it comes to creating original video series, the right concept can turn even niche topics into binge-worthy content. Innovation in video doesn’t always mean reinventing the wheel—it’s about taking familiar formats and adding your own unique spin to them. The key to success lies in being original, engaging, and in tune with your audience’s desires

Personality driven approach: With increased competition, it’s not just about what you’re saying, but how you say it. The personality behind the screen can make all the difference in engaging your audience and making your content stand out. We are investing in talented creators to help bring a personality and strong brand voice to our video content. This takes form in many ways including thoughtful video essays, quirky series and informative podcasts. Take George Edelman from MovieWeb, for instance, as he delves into what makes movies great by uncovering the “secret sauce” behind them in our new Reel Recipe breakdowns.

Screen Rant’s Pitch Meeting series, hosted by Ryan George, delivers hilarious and sharp-witted commentary on some of Hollywood’s biggest movies. These videos engage viewers by offering a fresh, comedic perspective on beloved (or not so beloved) films, making it the perfect blend of entertainment and critique. Having cultivated a loyal audience, our new standalone Pitch Meeting YouTube channel surpassed over 1.3 Million subscribers this year.

Conclusion

Our commitment to innovation and quality content has allowed us to build a diverse and engaged audience across multiple platforms. By reimagining traditional formats like celebrity interviews and creating fresh, original video series, we continue to push the boundaries of what digital media can offer. With a focus on unique storytelling, personalized content, and expanding our event coverage, we are not just participating in the digital landscape—we’re shaping it. 

The success we’ve achieved in 2024, with millions of hours of watchtime and billions of people reached, is a testament to the strength and relevance of our Screen Portfolio. We aren’t afraid to experiment with new formats, technologies, or concepts. The world of video content is wide open, and the possibilities are limitless.

Laura Watson - Head of Video Operations

Laura Watson has over 12 years experience in the world of video production. She made the shift from producing live television to the digital media space in 2017, when she joined Valnet. Over the years, Laura has expanded her role at Valnet, moving through various departments, including corporate strategy. Today, Laura oversees all video operations for Screen Rant and the Screen Portfolio, leading content production and strategy across multiple digital platforms. Her diverse background in both broadcast and digital media positions her to drive innovation and success in Valnet’s rapidly growing video operations.