Productions Making Money On The Web

Last Wednesday provided me with proof that the theory of web TV series not being able to make money is wrong… kind of.  The rapidly evolving space of professionally produced web content has peaked the interest of corporate capital.  This is evidenced by Microsoft and Sprint’s investment in the web series The Guild.  Creator/writer/producer Felicia Day spoke at length about The Guild at Wednesday’s Hollwood WebTV Meetup.  Though Felicia was unable to get into the specifics of the deal, she did speak about the evolution of The Guild and broadly about how the deal came to fruition with Microsoft.

The Guild was inspired by Felicia’s addiction to the online videogame megahit, World of Warcraft.  The Guild, which follows a group of gamers, quickly found a loyal audience – season one was supported through paypal donations.  With over 10 million hits, multiple awards, and over 60,000 YouTube subscribers, The Guild has created a powerful web presence.

The Success of the The Guild’s First season, presented the series with many sponsorship opportunities.  Refusing to give up creative control, Felicia passed on dozens of deals… until Microsoft.  Microsoft allowed Felicia to retain creative rights, and in addition to distribution over the web, Microsoft proposed distribution through the proprietary XBox Live platform.  This was the win-win that Felicia was looking for.

The Guild is currently in production on Season 2 and has just released the second episode.  The Guild reaches a global audience, being subtitled in 8 different languages, and sits right next to 30 Rock on XBox Live.  Check out the Felicia’s 3-part interview below with WhedonAge to learn more about The Guild.