CONTEUDO:
Tubi, the Fox-owned ad-supported streaming service, has officially unveiled Stubios, a new beta program designed to crowdsource original content from independent filmmakers. The initiative, launched this Tuesday, offers creators a unique platform to develop projects while receiving direct feedback from audiences and professional mentorship from actress and producer Issa Rae.
Interactive Production: Fans in the Director’s Chair
Unlike traditional studio models that rely on closed-door decision-making, Stubios invites viewers to participate in the pre-production process. Starting later this month, users can follow specific creators on the Tubi app, offering input on critical elements such as casting choices, screenplays, key art, and trailers. Filmmakers are encouraged to engage their base through polls and behind-the-scenes video content.
Melody Hildebrandt, CTO at Fox, noted that this shift moves away from traditional “gatekeeping” toward a dynamic, interactive experience. Tubi also plans to implement a comment feature to foster open discussions between fans and creators regarding project development.
Mentorship and Industry Support
A standout feature of the program is the direct involvement of Issa Rae. Through her management company, ColorCreative—which focuses on supporting diverse voices—Rae and her team will provide one-on-one guidance to selected filmmakers. This support spans script refinement and creative production, a rare opportunity for emerging talent looking to navigate the competitive Hollywood landscape.
The first cohort of “Stubiorunners” has already been selected, featuring artists like Lady London, who is currently developing a docuseries centered on her debut album. Tubi is actively accepting new applications, specifically targeting unheard voices with a passion for creating content for underserved audiences.
Strategic Shift Toward Originality
Tubi’s move comes as the industry faces pressure to move beyond the saturated market of reboots and franchises. According to the company’s recent The Stream report, consumer sentiment is shifting: 74% of Gen Z and millennial viewers favor original content over remakes, while 71% expressed a desire for more work from independent creators.
“Stubios is a way to give creatives with invested fanbases an opportunity to tell stories that may not otherwise be greenlit in Hollywood,” said Anjali Sud, CEO of Tubi. By fostering this ecosystem, the streamer aims to align its programming more closely with contemporary culture.
Upon completion of their projects, filmmakers will receive an undisclosed one-time fee, with their work receiving full distribution and promotion across the Tubi platform.