مطالعه پیامدهای توسعه فناوری‌های متاورس بر تولید و تماشای فیلم‌های سینمایی

This paper examines the impacts of the metaverse on film production and consumption, analyzing recent technological developments within the cinematic context. Cinema has historically been intertwined with technology, and various innovations, have transformed the ways films are produced, distributed, and viewed.

Studying the transformations induced by the metaverse on the production and consumption of films globally, particularly in leading countries, can serve as a forward-looking model for applying these technologies in Iran. Technological advancements have consistently exerted profound influence on both the art and industry of cinema. From the invention of sound and moving images to the emergence of digital platforms and virtual reality, each wave of new technologies has reshaped the methods of production, storytelling, and audience consumption of cinematic works. In this context, the metaverse—as a new generation of digital space built upon multisensory, immersive, and shared interactions—offers a fresh perspective on the future of cinema. The present study is designed to examine the implications of metaverse development for the film industry and the audience experience. The metaverse, by providing immersive three-dimensional environments, virtual and augmented reality, enables the creation of interactive and non-linear narratives, transforming the audience from passive viewers into active participants in the story. This environment allows filmmakers to design and manipulate digital settings in real time, experiment with scene previews, and employ virtual production to reduce time and costs. This qualitative study investigates the impacts of metaverse development on film production and viewing in Iran. Data were collected through document analysis, including scientific articles, books, official reports, and multimedia sources such as documentaries, analytical videos, and interviews published since 2018. Additionally, digital sources including official studio websites and metaverse platforms were examined. This combination of sources provided access to theoretical, practical, and experiential information regarding film production in metaverse environments and technological innovations. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis, a flexible method capable of extracting meaningful patterns from textual and multimedia data, offering a comprehensive picture of the current state of cinema in relation to the metaverse.

The findings indicate that the metaverse has introduced fundamental transformations in production, storytelling, audience roles, and film exhibition, turning cinema into a participatory, multidimensional, and interactive space. By combining virtual reality, immersive interaction, and non-linear narratives, the metaverse redefines film production and experience, transforming cinema into a digital, interactive, and immersive medium. Metaverse film production follows an integrated and collaborative structure, blurring traditional boundaries between pre-production, production, and post-production. Utilizing technologies such as virtual production, three-dimensional interactive environments, augmented reality, and LED volumes enables the creation of complex scenes and narratives without dependence on physical locations. These technologies simultaneously enhance creativity, team collaboration, and efficiency, although challenges such as equipment costs and the need for specialized personnel remain.

The metaverse has also transformed storytelling, audience engagement, acting, directing, and film distribution. Audiences become active participants, capable of creating personalized experiences through digital avatars. Decentralized, blockchain-based distribution and virtual cinemas facilitate collective experiences and participation in content creation. Overall, the metaverse has shifted cinema from a traditional format to an interactive, decentralized, and community-centered medium.