Public Address | Cafe | Hard News: Moving on

Jason Kemp

Fri, 20 Sep 2013 17:14:34 +1200

What you can expect to see in the next six months is on-demand IPTV presented as a channel on Freeview – although it won’t actually be delivered via the DTT broadcast.

Because I don't have UFB access at home yet I'd like my freeview to get past the data cap…

Jason Kemp

Fri, 20 Sep 2013 17:08:30 +1200

And you have to think when more of us have unlimited cap UFB connections TV will be more internet driven than by broadcasters.

I’ve always thought Sky programmers get their clips from the $5 bin and I can programme my own channels so that is what I do.

One of…

Jason Kemp

Fri, 20 Sep 2013 17:01:37 +1200

Thanks Russell,

Part of that is business model & partly not understanding that a network expands & amplifies – not based on scarcity anymore.

And all of these people have been going to conferences about convergence since about ’93. I’m mashing up all kinds of educational content using video ( served off…

Russell Brown

Fri, 20 Sep 2013 16:54:08 +1200

Definitely part of the answer. As I reply to this I am watching some clips off Youtube on my TV. I downloaded them but with Apple TV or an internet connected tv that will happen more often.

One of the problems is the way the TV companies compete. They all…

Jason Kemp

Fri, 20 Sep 2013 16:49:00 +1200

It is indeed amazing what can be made with a relatively small budget. Much better to pay for talent but clearly production tech has got to a point where the barrier to entry is not so great.

I may have missed it but what does a frequency on freeview cost?…

Russell Brown

Fri, 20 Sep 2013 16:48:55 +1200

Any thoughts re my question about regular contributions to PAS? You were planning some way of doing this.

I gave a speech this week at the Australia New Zealand Internet Awards which culminated in a pitch for my idea for a shared voluntary subscriptions platform for NZ blogs and independent…

Jason Kemp

Fri, 20 Sep 2013 16:44:53 +1200

So are Internet-capable TVs the solution?

Definitely part of the answer. As I reply to this I am watching some clips off Youtube on my TV. I downloaded them but with Apple TV or an internet connected tv that will happen more often.

I can make video on my mac…

Geoff Lealand

Fri, 20 Sep 2013 16:32:12 +1200

It was an unusual but efficient venue.

Any thoughts re my question about regular contributions to PAS? You were planning some way of doing this.

Russell Brown

Fri, 20 Sep 2013 15:18:29 +1200

Just for interest’s sake, here’s a slightly crappy photo of what we had been using in place of a full-scale control room for the Media3 recordings, and a close-up of the tiny board that contains all the logic.

And some notes I sent to Dan Slevin at OnFilm:

We record…

Myles Thomas

Fri, 20 Sep 2013 13:24:15 +1200

I reckon the answer to your question is in the ratings for One,2, 3 and Prime. TV3 is consistently a better channel than One or 2 yet after 30 years still struggles to beat TVNZ in the ratings. Prime has amazing foreign series like Doctor Who and Downtown Abbey which…

izogi

Fri, 20 Sep 2013 11:19:15 +1200

Building audiences takes a long, long time and TVOne is still to some degree the natural audience for public service tv.

Is this as true in the digital TV age as it used to be, now that electronic guides are immediately available on the TV (or decoder box) and it's…

Myles Thomas

Fri, 20 Sep 2013 11:02:16 +1200

The advantage of turning TVNZ back into a public service broadcaster is that TVOne and 2 already have an audience. Building audiences takes a long, long time and TVOne is still to some degree the natural audience for public service tv. TVNZ 7 was closed because of the lack of…

izogi

Fri, 20 Sep 2013 10:38:21 +1200

A key problem, I think, was that every viewer we lured over to the public broadcasting content was a viewer lost to the commercial channels.

I was disappointed with the way that TVNZ6 and TVNZ7 were both killed, based upon claims about viewership, before digital TV was a requirement for…

Ian Dalziel

Fri, 20 Sep 2013 08:03:22 +1200

The udder's way...?
...a 4 bail walkthrough constructed of timber and corrugated iron, with a separator and and a cream cart.
this 4 bail walkthrough isn't some
kind of Black Caps game then?
...he said all low and baleful, like...
then he jumped down,
and turned around...

and gotta cotton…

Ian Dalziel

Fri, 20 Sep 2013 07:37:55 +1200

sieved, screened, strained & riddled?
nothing is real
unless it’s filtered
through the media.
…and nothing to get hung about.
Reality is easy with eyes closed…*

Reality mediated by devices!
(aka meter$)
The only way forward!
(Don’t look back!)
The Goopple Incorporation, 2020

*
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E6lV1rgx7_4

Farmer Green

Fri, 20 Sep 2013 07:33:20 +1200

beauty of sunrise on our backs in the east facing cowsheds
That sounds like it might be a 4 bail walkthrough constructed of timber and corrugated iron, with a separator and and a cream cart.

Rich Lock

Fri, 20 Sep 2013 01:36:45 +1200

I don’t know if it’s peculiar to us, but it’s awfully tiresome.

http://www.theonion.com/articles/area-man-constantly-mentioning-he-doesnt-own-a-tel,429/

Rich Lock

Fri, 20 Sep 2013 01:33:17 +1200

I have lots of interesting conversations about television (Breaking Bad, anyone?)

Interesting that you mention ‘Breaking Bad’ as an example of television, because here in the UK……it isn’t (TV, that is). Breaking Bad works as a good example of the shift in broadcast plate tectonics. When it was on ‘mainstream’…

Danielle

Thu, 19 Sep 2013 23:43:33 +1200

It seems to be a peculiarly NZ trait to get all morally self-righteous about not owning a TV set.

I don't know if it's peculiar to us, but it's awfully tiresome.

Ross Mason

Thu, 19 Sep 2013 22:33:17 +1200

One of the all time favourites of farmer green , he not having had a TV in the house for nearly 40 years now.

Yup. Those of us from the agrarian sector in previous lives know the beauty of sunrise on our backs in the east facing cowsheds and the…

Chris Waugh

Thu, 19 Sep 2013 21:50:25 +1200

Whether you do or do not have a TV strikes me as being utterly irrelevant. What I saw in the cartoon Farmer Green referred to is a comment on how for so many of us these days nothing is real unless it's filtered through the media.

Geoff Lealand

Thu, 19 Sep 2013 21:32:08 +1200

... But our house isn't big enough for a regular influx of international guests. Did once have a Norwegian visit, though.

Geoff Lealand

Thu, 19 Sep 2013 21:29:34 +1200

I have lots of interesting conversations about television (Breaking Bad, anyone?) and they seem real to me,

Farmer Green

Thu, 19 Sep 2013 21:26:19 +1200

Gotcha. 'Nuff said.

Sacha

Thu, 19 Sep 2013 21:21:25 +1200

real communication

right, then

Sacha

Thu, 19 Sep 2013 21:20:41 +1200

Who wants to be one degree removed anyway?

So long as the musicians grow their own instruments, eh.

Farmer Green

Thu, 19 Sep 2013 21:17:39 +1200

On the contrary, the absence of TV has been conducive to real communication, and enabled genuine hospitality to many international guests , who don’t seem to miss it either. Presumably they didn’t come here to Godzone to watch TV.

Come on in ; the reality is fine.
Self -righteous? ??…

Myles Thomas

Thu, 19 Sep 2013 21:08:00 +1200

There is a sustainable way of funding public service broadcasting and media – a levy on commercial broadcasters and ISP revenue. It costs the government nothing, isn't prey to changes in government broadcasting policy, can be administered by a fully independent agency (NZOA seems the obvious option but it could…

Geoff Lealand

Thu, 19 Sep 2013 21:07:57 +1200

Despite some misgivings about some content, I find a home that doesn't have a TV set rather inhospitable. It seems to be a peculiarly NZ trait to get all morally self-righteous about not owning a TV set.

Rob Stowell

Thu, 19 Sep 2013 20:59:12 +1200

NZOA missed an opportunity to support existing platforms when they had the chance.
Yep. Many opportunities :)

Farmer Green

Thu, 19 Sep 2013 20:50:54 +1200

One of the all time favourites of farmer green , he not having had a TV in the house for nearly 40 years now.

Chris Waugh

Thu, 19 Sep 2013 20:47:39 +1200

See image 28 – TV sunrise:-

Nice, and ouch, sums up so much of our current existence.

Farmer Green

Thu, 19 Sep 2013 20:42:49 +1200

Just scrap NZOA funding of TV (except Maori TV) and put the funds thereby saved into LIVE theatre ; LIVE music etc.
We might even save Downstage.

Who wants to be one degree removed anyway?

See image 28 – TV sunrise:-

http://www.leunig.com.au/index.php/cartoons

Myles Thomas

Thu, 19 Sep 2013 20:34:09 +1200

In this case the monkey is part of the problem (though don’t worry, the organ grinder gets it from me also).

What I was getting at is that NZOA missed an opportunity to support existing platforms when they had the chance. Stratos/Triangle submitted several applications for funding, one at least…

Sacha

Thu, 19 Sep 2013 19:17:49 +1200

I'd love to see Maori Television given additonal funding and a sustained mandate to run another TV channel dedicated to general public broadcasting alongside their current ones. Selling or closing down TVNZ seems a reasonable price to pay for that. Apparently the deathstar is designed to convert smoothly into a…

Russell Brown

Thu, 19 Sep 2013 18:29:17 +1200

If your point is that TVNZ can, with the flick of a legislative switch, be turned back into a PBS, I’m just not convinced. As Keir’s pointed out, it’s been a political football for too long. No-one’s benefited. And a public broadcaster isn’t just a commercial broadcaster with a different…

Ian Dalziel

Thu, 19 Sep 2013 17:58:55 +1200

Past time for a fresh look at NZOA’s role
NZOA – New Zealand Open Access?

Rob Stowell

Thu, 19 Sep 2013 17:52:51 +1200

I think you’re missing my point. The same Government that decides NZOA remit is worth changing should hopefully decide that TVNZ should be more than just a profit making enterprise.
If your point is that TVNZ can, with the flick of a legislative switch, be turned back into a PBS,…

Howard Edwards

Thu, 19 Sep 2013 15:59:44 +1200

Fortunately there are plenty of more important reasons why NZ trumps Australia for where I want to live, but I already miss the SBS and ABC networks, even despite the lack of on-screen NZ culture, which I seriously missed.

Amen to that. We lived in OZ for 6 months back…

Howard Edwards

Thu, 19 Sep 2013 15:53:22 +1200

Maybe I should now take them on trips, to chuck rocks at TV3 and Sky HQs?

In SKY's case, just post the date,time and location on this forum please (and also whether we should bring our own rocks or not).

Calcio

Thu, 19 Sep 2013 15:31:06 +1200

Thanks for all your work Russell. We recorded (on VHS) each episode and watched it when we could. All the best for your next venture, Jarvie.

Brent Jackson

Thu, 19 Sep 2013 13:44:43 +1200

Really missing TVNZ7 and hope it (or something like it) gets resurrected for public broadcasting.

Geoff Lealand

Thu, 19 Sep 2013 13:40:27 +1200

Time for another whip-around for PAS, I reckon. How goes the proposal for a mechanism for regular donations, Russell?

Geoff Lealand

Thu, 19 Sep 2013 13:38:22 +1200

...I won't be able to take my students on field trips to Media 7/3 anymore. They really loved those trips--folk were friendly, they were fed and watered, they got to see some tele being made, and came away a little overawed by the experience. I think It may well have…

David Russell

Thu, 19 Sep 2013 13:21:23 +1200

This is a very interesting thread. Just a pity the reason that it has come into existence. Thanks Russell and your team, it has been great to have been a part of your Media world for the last years, and I'm going to miss that perspective of the world.

My…

Kumara Republic

Thu, 19 Sep 2013 12:08:36 +1200

I personally see on-demand video as the way of the future. Yet, apart from obvious bandwidth issues, I reckon the other major obstacle to on-demand is the learning curve inherent with desktop PCs. A decently-sized TV costs roughly the same as a video-capable desktop, but a TV doesn't take as…

Damian Christie

Thu, 19 Sep 2013 12:03:51 +1200

is not sustainable across governments.

And therein lies the rub. There's little that can be done by one Government that can't be undone by the next. The only hope is to do something that is so instantly popular (interest-free student loans!) with enough voters, or so blindingly obvious (but the…

Keir Leslie

Thu, 19 Sep 2013 11:59:53 +1200

But without that change in legislation requiring the TVNZ Board on downwards to only make money and give it back to the Government, there’s no reason why TVNZ 7 couldn’t have continued, subsidised by the profits from ONE and 2.

I think that the reality is that cross subsidization of…

Oliver Sealy

Thu, 19 Sep 2013 11:55:56 +1200

That sucks, Russell.

If you're anything like me, then you probably resigned yourself to the reality that all productions can summarily end long ago. Of course that never seems to placate the sense of loss that comes with having something you've worked so hard at for so long, simply dismissed.…

Damian Christie

Thu, 19 Sep 2013 11:49:26 +1200

You’re right. But … it could be. I reckon it should, or the NZOA funding model shut down in favour of a public broadcaster.

I think you're missing my point. The same Government that decides NZOA remit is worth changing should hopefully decide that TVNZ should be more than just…

Hilary Stace

Thu, 19 Sep 2013 11:30:36 +1200

Thanks. Will be interesting to see who the new opposition spokesperson will be and how senior.

Rob Stowell

Thu, 19 Sep 2013 11:21:15 +1200

Hilary: it will almost certainly be a central part of the Labour’s new policy platform, not least because Keir and I have tried hard to make sure it gets in there and stays in there.
thumbs up and hoping for a fair wind :)

Rob Stowell

Thu, 19 Sep 2013 11:16:19 +1200

The programmes remain the property of the producers
I've never understood this. Independent producers put up creative ideas, and time developing them, so some shared ownership is fair. But I'd have thought putting up the entire production budget- and a little bit of profit for the production company – would…

Rich of Observationz

Thu, 19 Sep 2013 11:13:39 +1200

This platform thing? It's basically video on demand plus the ability to have curated channels if you want to sit in front of it and watch a logical, time appropriate sequence of programming, right?

Isn't that Youtube?

And if not, couldn't NZOA either layer on Youtube, work with Google (who…

Kumara Republic

Thu, 19 Sep 2013 11:00:24 +1200

Mostly because the attempts have been too timid — not bold enough or far enough to embed themselves firmly enough. I very much agree about need to go beyond TV.

TVNZ6 & 7 had the content about right. The fatal weakness was the Clark Govt’s Blairist belief that 6 & 7 would…

Stephen Judd

Thu, 19 Sep 2013 10:55:26 +1200

And what I came here to say: sorry to hear this Russell, and I hope something equivalently neat comes along soon. You did good work.

Russell Brown

Thu, 19 Sep 2013 10:54:56 +1200

The importance of strengthening/rebuilding quality public free to air broadcasting was specifically mentioned by Grant Robertson in the recent leadership contest, but not sure how influential that view will be under the new lineup, as I think he and Clare Curran were the main proponents. .

I'd be surprised if…

Stephen Judd

Thu, 19 Sep 2013 10:54:40 +1200

Hilary: it will almost certainly be a central part of the Labour's new policy platform, not least because Keir and I have tried hard to make sure it gets in there and stays in there.

Russell Brown

Thu, 19 Sep 2013 10:53:08 +1200

But retains no interest in it’s longevity (I know remit – but that’s where the job-half-done bit comes in…)
Much gets lost behind paywalls (Heartland TV), some gets to NZ on Film, but where does the rest go?

That would be NZ On Screen :-)

The programmes remain the property…

Hilary Stace

Thu, 19 Sep 2013 10:39:06 +1200

Ian Dalziel

Thu, 19 Sep 2013 10:20:12 +1200

savour(y)ing the memories…
Should we express our disappointment, in the strongest terms, in a message to TV3? I will miss the sausage rolls but that is not the real issue.
In this context that could be taken as a PAS-try…

Ian Dalziel

Thu, 19 Sep 2013 10:15:35 +1200

Iching for change…
Sorry to hear you are moving on, Russell,
or ‘rejuvenating your time’ or somesuch,
as the Government might say.

hopefully you are not comletely
thrown out on the street

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1-gOOQKWOK0

But you are in good company,
and perhaps the move will give you time to …

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bMzD_jGqp1Q…

Rob Stowell

Thu, 19 Sep 2013 10:00:37 +1200

1. It’s not in NZOA’s current remit to use it’s money to set up a platform.
You’re right. But … it could be. I reckon it should, or the NZOA funding model shut down in favour of a public broadcaster.
People – most people – don’t sit down and watch…

izogi

Thu, 19 Sep 2013 09:50:47 +1200

Why should Three and NZoA keep putting money into (excellent) local dramas and comedies like Hounds, Harry, and The Almighty Johnsons, when more people apparently are interested in watching repeats of some Irish drag queen telling fanny gags?

I don't always think they should if nobody's watching them, but I'm…

Dylan Reeve

Thu, 19 Sep 2013 09:44:48 +1200

I think it could be possible to make an even lower budget version of Media [3/7] without sacrificing at least it's core ethos, but that's still not zero budget and an on-demand platform (which is what all online platforms are essentially) like YouTube isn't going to attract nearly as many…

Damian Christie

Thu, 19 Sep 2013 09:28:16 +1200

so Freeview is a platform?

Freeview is a platform yes, but if you're referring to my earlier response, no it wasn't set up to provide public service broadcasting. It was set up to enable the switch off of analogue. TVNZ 6 and 7 were put in place to try and…

Sacha

Thu, 19 Sep 2013 09:25:48 +1200

the digital platform in NZ

so Freeview is a platform?

Farmer Green

Thu, 19 Sep 2013 08:52:13 +1200

when more people apparently are interested in watching repeats of some Irish drag queen telling fanny gags?

And , increasing numbers don't have or don't watch TV?

Deborah

Thu, 19 Sep 2013 08:37:39 +1200

Well, damn. I never got to watch it often enough for my liking, but I always enjoyed it when I did.

Commiserations, Russell, et al. I hope something else interesting and lucrative comes your way soon.

Damian Christie

Thu, 19 Sep 2013 08:34:54 +1200

Yes, but it should be. And money? You could set up an NZOA youtube channel in 20 minutes. Why would that be a terrible idea?

1. It's not in NZOA's current remit to use it's money to set up a platform.

2. It's not in TVNZ's current remit to do…

Craig Ranapia

Thu, 19 Sep 2013 08:21:02 +1200

Meanwhile the channels are disappearing and NZOA wring their hands saying “there’s nothing we can do”. Not true. If NZOA genuinely want to see the parts of NZ that don’t rate on air they need to re-evaluate their funding policies and swiftly.

Miles: I’ve got my issues with NZOA, to…

Ross Mason

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 22:06:06 +1200

Bugger.

Sacha

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 22:01:19 +1200

not bold enough

verily

Rob Stowell

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 21:45:42 +1200

it’s not in their remit to throw a chunk of their funding into creating a platform.
Yes, but it should be. And money? You could set up an NZOA youtube channel in 20 minutes. Why would that be a terrible idea?

Steve Parks

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 21:34:21 +1200

I never usually watched Media 3 (or 7), but it was just nice knowing that it was there. I guess that’s the problem – TV shows need viewers, not supporters.

Our of curiosity, why were you a supporter more than a viewer?

Ben Austin

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 21:19:41 +1200

Rather sad news, I was hoping that the show would still be running when I return next year.

Remind me again why we have a public broadcaster and funding body? I mean I think I get the theory of it, but the practice seems to not work as I thought…

Keir Leslie

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 20:55:53 +1200

Mostly because the attempts have been too timid --- not bold enough or far enough to embed themselves firmly enough. I very much agree about need to go beyond TV.

LouisM

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 20:53:58 +1200

Thanks for your hard work Russell and everyone involved. A fantastic show that I really enjoyed watching on the telly and occasionally attending in the audience. Programmes like Media3 are essential to preserve and protect democracy and information in New Zealand.

Time for public broadcasting. Commercial media is clearly not…

Sacha

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 20:06:36 +1200

we have to reorient TVNZ to public service broadcasting

I'd be looking broader than TV

Sacha

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 20:05:56 +1200

Attempts to set up another platform have generally failed.

Your thoughts on why?

Chris Waugh

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 19:18:43 +1200

NZ Broadcasting

NZBC?

Keir Leslie

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 19:14:16 +1200

The actual detailed policy is going to be important, and especially fitting it within a very tight fiscal framework.

In particular, I think big question is: given the current model of NZOA/TVNZ/RNZ plus private players doesn't add up to a public broadcasting service, how do we change the model to…

Sacha

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 18:39:59 +1200

You mean like

Yes :)

Keir Leslie

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 18:28:00 +1200

You mean like:

Labour believes in a public broadcasting service that informs, entertains, and uplifts—a service that reflects the diversity of voices in our country. An informed democracy needs a strong, independent, free public-broadcasting media service. Public funding is essential to maintaining that strength.
9.15 Public service broadcasting needs to…

Sacha

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 17:51:40 +1200

Does every other accessible television broadcaster in NZ

yes

Sacha

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 17:51:26 +1200

"world's blahiest blah!"

noice

izogi

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 17:41:08 +1200

Though the closest we have to a public broadcaster right now is Maori Television.

I've recently returned from a couple of years in Australia, knowing in advance that NZ public television was having a bad time. What I didn't expect so much, after crusing my parents' Sky channels, was that…

Geoff Lealand

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 17:28:10 +1200

This is shitty news. Should we express our disappointment, in the strongest terms, in a message to TV3? I will miss the sausage rolls but that is not the real issue.

Myles Thomas

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 17:26:09 +1200

yep, there's plenty of ways to make it happen. It all comes back to the Minister of Broadcasting. And whoever the future Minister of Broadcasting is. Now is definitely a good time to be raising this issue within Labour.

Damian Christie

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 17:23:16 +1200

Wasn’t that what Freeview was meant to be?

In a word, no.

Sacha

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 17:11:55 +1200

There's a state owned network right there

Though the closest we have to a public broadcaster right now is Maori Television.

Sacha

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 17:10:46 +1200

Past time NZOA got their own platform

Wasn't that what Freeview was meant to be?

Damian Christie

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 17:08:38 +1200

Past time NZOA got their own platform, IMHO.

As Russell said above, they've got work with what they've got, and it's not in their remit to throw a chunk of their funding into creating a platform. Just as it's not in TVNZ's either, unless it serves the sole (and relatively…

BenWilson

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 17:07:28 +1200

Me as Barbosa’s straight man.

Well you best not be filming on Friday nights then.

Sorry to hear it's coming to an end.

Sacha

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 17:04:41 +1200

Sad to hear this news. It has been an honour getting to know the 'family' over the years. Good people.

Let's get a commitment right now from the next government on public broadcasting. Ridiculous that we put our scarce funding at the mercy of commercial broadcasters with. as you say.…

Martin Barry

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 16:28:20 +1200

Not only viewers, but viewers of the right demographic!
Think I might have unfortunately just slipped outside that range but certainly had the show on record every week.Let's hope you find another forum for your TV talents Russell and team.

Robyn Gallagher

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 15:57:28 +1200

Damn. That's very sad to hear, especially coming the day after Downstage's news. I never usually watched Media 3 (or 7), but it was just nice knowing that it was there. I guess that's the problem – TV shows need viewers, not supporters.

Rich of Observationz

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 15:47:00 +1200

This text (which may be public domain in NZ) describes an interesting interactive TV format which you might find more popular than a plain discussion show, combining as it does political discussion with low impact aerobics.

I'm sure there are many contemporary figures you could cast in the Goldstein role.…

JacksonP

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 15:41:22 +1200

I’d really like to emphasise that one of the joys of doing the show has been the regular audience at the recordings. It’s been a village.

It was great fun to be part of the village, and it's a show that will leave a big hole in terms of covering…

Russell Brown

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 15:02:23 +1200

Well, I think there’s comedy potential in a short series of vodcasts consisting of José pitching increasingly wacky stories, with you just staring at him, non-plussed.

So this is the future. Me as Barbosa's straight man.

Russell Brown

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 15:00:31 +1200

add more light than heat on many complex and contested issues

Without blowing our own collective trumpet, that was always the aim. Thanks, Ross.

SteveH

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 14:57:47 +1200

Thanks for all you and the team has done Russell, I'm sad to see it end. All the best for whatever is next!

Rob Stowell

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 14:51:18 +1200

Bugger! It's a shame. Hope something good comes from this.
Also it exposes again (if it was needed) the emptiness of calling NZOA 'public broadcasting'.
That they wanted to fund the show, but couldn't because the broadcaster wouldn't screen it, shows clearly which tail is wagging the dog ...
Past…

Luke Rowell

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 14:50:35 +1200

Sad to read Russell! But best of luck to everyone for the next thing, may you always kick ass!

James Blackman

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 14:49:09 +1200

Well, the offer was......and is still ..... there.......wanna talk?

Ross Bell

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 14:38:29 +1200

Sad news, but congrats on the great work Media7/3 did. It was one of the few (if not the only) shows that would add more light than heat on many complex and contested issues – drug policy being a good example of that. Fingers crossed you'll get something else on…

Pdogge

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 14:31:14 +1200

A rare putting up of my ancient head to say a very large thank you for your very professional effort and who knows what doors may open.

In the mean time please accept my gratitude and it is nice to see a wee bit more of you here...just like the…

nzlemming

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 14:24:03 +1200

Really sad to see it go, but really glad you made it at all.

Tim Michie

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 14:21:21 +1200

Everyone upthread has said it but it no less true for me too... often the most intelligent thing I saw on TV all week and will be missed. Thaks for the broadening of minds and hope your span of work increases accordingly.

HORansome

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 14:19:12 +1200

Well, I think there's comedy potential in a short series of vodcasts consisting of José pitching increasingly wacky stories, with you just staring at him, non-plussed.

Hebe

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 14:12:56 +1200

Same. Another reason to switch off the TV.

Jason Kemp

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 14:11:01 +1200

In looking at the digital channels on freeview there is much dross there but I’m guessing the “channel” still has to be paid for. I’m wondering if one of those channels didn’t have a slot to fill?

Of course you still need a production budget but perhaps there are other…

Lilith __

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 14:05:07 +1200

At least we’ve still got PAS to keep us informed.

Time to have another whip-round, Russell?

Chris Waugh

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 13:58:48 +1200

Same, and it was a great way to understand the nuances of what was going on at home when offshore.

Yup, me too. At least we've still got PAS to keep us informed.

Simon Grigg

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 13:56:01 +1200

How did it rate online? I always watched it on-demand.

Same, and it was a great way to understand the nuances of what was going on at home when offshore.

David MacGregor

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 13:54:24 +1200

Thanks to you and all of your crew and collaborators for your work and ideas. I enjoyed the show and being part of the audience from time to time.
I'd definitely like to see more – somehow, somewhere...

Lilith __

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 13:52:33 +1200

Oh hell. So sorry to hear that Russell, and all the other folk who made Media 3 so smart and awesome.

I hope for most excellent projects for you all. And a government that values us enough to reinstate public-interest broadcasting.

Stupid

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 13:50:24 +1200

Great work Russell, José et al... you'll be missed, and replaced by a gaping chasm of nothingness in the current affairs niche. It's the age of do-ups, drunk drivers and dubious talent quests, where intelligent discussion is just not profitable or popular. Now what Russell?

Russell Brown

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 13:46:27 +1200

I'd really like to emphasise that one of the joys of doing the show has been the regular audience at the recordings. It's been a village.

wendyf

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 13:41:58 +1200

Mourning quietly. But, as the photo display downtown says – "Thx 4 the memories."

Kumara Republic

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 13:41:56 +1200

And the fact is, online audiences are still a fraction of TV audiences.

And it’ll remain that way for as long as NZ’s broadband infrastructure remains cartellised. D:< In that context, I’ve become increasingly fascinated with the French word dirigisme.

But NZ On Air has to work with the system it has.
At the last Save TVNZ7 meeting in Welly, various funding mechanisms…

Russell Brown

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 13:40:23 +1200

It’s a shame NZOA missed the chance to foster existing outlets such as Stratos/Triangle.

I gather there's a funding eligibility review pending — eligibility for channels, that is — which might make some difference. But NZ On Air has to work with the system it has.

Russell Brown

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 13:37:17 +1200

Which is not to say Russell couldn't interview some media types each week and post it online, but to get something even vaguely close to the relatively low budget of Media 3 takes thousands, and more likely tens of, each week.

Yep. We got production costs way down, but if…

Myles Thomas

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 13:36:49 +1200

True. But if NZ on Air really want to find more of this type of programme, perhaps they need to invest in an outlet also.

It's a shame NZOA missed the chance to foster existing outlets such as Stratos/Triangle. And they continue to give a pittance to regional broadcasters. When…

Samuel Scott

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 13:27:06 +1200

How did it rate online? I always watched it on-demand.

Megan Wegan

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 13:26:52 +1200

I am also really sorry to hear this, for everyone involved. I'll miss you guys.

Damian Christie

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 13:10:42 +1200

To those suggesting digital/online as an option, it's really not, not yet and not with our small population.

Which is not to say Russell couldn't interview some media types each week and post it online, but to get something even vaguely close to the relatively low budget of Media 3…

Myles Thomas

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 13:08:43 +1200

It just shows why TVNZ 7 was so important. I wonder which show had the most viewers, Media 7 or Media 3?

Myles Thomas

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 13:07:42 +1200

Funding and where to screen it? Couldn't NZ on Air fund an online version?

Kumara Republic

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 13:07:29 +1200

Pity to hear of this. Still, a phoenix can rise from the ashes...

Simon Bennett

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 13:04:32 +1200

Very sorry to hear this, Russell. Media3, and before that Media7, have pretty much been the only appointment-viewing programmes on free-to-air TV in our household.

Looking forward to whatever you find yourself doing next!

Ken Double

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 13:04:31 +1200

Well turds. We're stuffed now for any vaguely intelligent media criticism and analysis on television aren't we? I loved Media 7/3. Of all things it reminded me of good old Brian Priestley on Fourth Estate. Sophisticates laugh at telly but it enforces a bit of structure and concision and discipline…

Kebabette

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 12:58:42 +1200

A big Kia ora and thanks for making it happen. Lycidas, for y'all:
"At last he rose, and twitch'd his Mantle blew:
To morrow to fresh Woods, and Pastures new."

Ross Bell

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 12:57:14 +1200

Damn! Same.

Martin Brown

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 12:56:19 +1200

Shame. But couldn't it just live on digital?

Damian Christie

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 12:52:04 +1200

Sorry to hear that Russell, but yes, the sort of run you (and we at BB) have had is nothing to sneeze at. Television years make dog years look pathetic. :)

On to bigger and better things. Beer soon :)

Russell Brown

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 12:49:51 +1200

Meanwhile, Jose and Will are busy at work on a documentary about censorship, so you can look forward to that.

HORansome

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 12:49:41 +1200

That's very sad, and I'm not just saying that because I was relying on more guest appearances to fuel my rampant ego.

Russell Brown

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 12:48:59 +1200

There’s a very strong case for public broadcasting. A half hour about people painting and hammering suburban houses might suit advertisers, but when that’s the only thing that’s being paid for and produced we have a problem.

Yes, I think that’s precisely the problem. The fix for that is a…

George Darroch

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 12:47:23 +1200

I'm sorry to hear this, and I'm sure you're being quite diplomatic about what must be a trying process. I hope very good things come out of the skills and experience you and your team have demonstrated.

There's a very strong case for public broadcasting. A half hour about people…

Hilary Cameron

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 12:47:03 +1200

Very, very sorry to hear that. One of the few shows this member of the youth demographic made time for.

Warren Clark

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 12:45:53 +1200

I don't suppose you considered an online only option ?

Chip Matthews

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 12:45:48 +1200

Thank you to you, and all involved with Media7->3. It really has been appreciated. Look forward to whatever comes up next. Cher da fams.

Public Address

Wed, 18 Sep 2013 12:45:47 +1200

Discussion from blog post.