Tubi Calls on Indie Filmmakers and Their Fans to Beef Up Original Content Library
Tubi, the ad-supported streaming service owned by Fox, has launched a new beta program called “Stubios.” This innovative initiative invites aspiring filmmakers to submit their original content and receive feedback directly from fans.
Notably, participants will also gain one-on-one guidance from renowned actress Issa Rae, the creator of the acclaimed series “Insecure.”
Fans to Participate in Preproduction Process
While Tubi has previously partnered with The Black List to accept original scripts from emerging writers, Stubios marks the first time the streamer is calling on viewers to participate in the preproduction process.
Later this month, users will be able to follow creatives on the Tubi app and provide their opinions on greenlit projects. Filmmakers can create polls, publish behind-the-scenes clips, and involve fans in key decisions like casting, screenplays, trailers, and key art.
“Rather than using our traditional gatekeeping and offline processes … the fans will be able to participate dynamically and have that interactive experience,” said Melody Hildebrandt, Fox’s Chief Technology Officer.
Compensating Emerging Talent and Promoting Diversity
Once filmmakers complete their projects through the program, they receive a one-time fee from Tubi. All finished works are distributed and promoted on the streaming platform. Tubi CEO Anjali Sud emphasized the initiative’s goal:
“Stubios is a way to give creatives with invested fanbases an opportunity to tell stories that may not otherwise be greenlit in Hollywood, and it will enable Tubi to ensure our programming reflects culture as it is happening.”
Issa Rae’s Mentorship and Guidance
In a rare opportunity for upcoming filmmakers, participants will receive one-on-one guidance from Issa Rae and her management company, ColorCreative. Known for championing diverse creators, Rae will provide direct mentorship, while ColorCreative offers script and creative production support.
Tubi is currently accepting applications for Stubios, explicitly seeking unheard voices with a strong desire to break into Hollywood and create unique content for underserved viewers. The first cohort includes music artist Lady London, working on a docuseries about her debut album.
Appealing to Younger Audiences and Indie Creators
Stubios aligns with Tubi’s larger content strategy of producing more diverse originals to appeal to younger audiences. According to the platform’s latest “The Stream” report, Gen Z and millennials prefer originals over remakes and want more diverse content from indie and smaller creators.
With Stubios, Tubi and Issa Rae aim to revolutionize filmmaking by empowering the next generation of talent, embracing unheard voices, and democratizing the creative process through fan engagement.
