Explore A New World: How Gateway Fandoms Expand Our Horizons
Discovering genres through the content we already love
We tend to think of ourselves as specific types of fans, loving certain genres, and maybe rejecting others. But every now and then, something exciting happens: a book, movie, or TV show hooks us because it encapsulates a genre we love (for instance, romance) but it also showcases a genre we aren’t as familiar with (like fantasy). Soon, we’re seeking out new-to-us content in those genres we wouldn’t have explored otherwise. These are the gateway fandoms that inspire discovery, and they often serve as an introduction to larger or more niche subgenres.
Gateway fandoms play a crucial role in opening fans up to new interests, expanding their horizons. They discover new creators and allow themselves to explore diverse storytelling styles. Gateway fandoms also foster social connections, exposing fans to broader communities where recommendations, discussions, and fan-made content introduce them to fresh perspectives and genres. While streaming platforms can serve us content we might like based on other content we’ve watched or listened to, finding new fandoms and building genuine connections with others can help us find meaningful recommendations for the next thing you might love. Here are a few gateway fandoms that fascinate us!
Shaun of the Dead to The Walking Dead
Zombie fiction has been around for centuries. Mary Shelley’s 1818 novel Frankenstein is one of the earliest books in the genre, but zombies appear in literature as early as the 1600s. Today, zombie books, movies and TV shows are ubiquitous; there are so many stories to choose from in the category. But it’s definitely not for everyone.
In 2004, Edgar Wright and Simon Pegg’s Shaun of the Dead introduced audiences to a fresh take on zombie narratives using sharp wit, and relatable characters that resonated with viewers beyond traditional horror fans. Its seamless mix of comedic timing and genuinely intense zombie scenes provided an accessible entry point for those who might have been deterred by the more grim or gory aspects of classic zombie films.
By weaving elements of satire and romance into a well-executed apocalypse setting, Shaun of the Dead made the genre more approachable and demonstrated its versatility, inspiring a wave of new fans and a resurgence of interest in zombie-themed media. The movie brought in new fans to the genre that might later pick up a show like The Walking Dead, or dive deep into serious zombie filmography. It also possibly inspired future zombie comedy and romcom stories, like Warm Bodies, Santa Clarita Diet, Zombieland, and Life After Beth.
Buffy the Vampire Slayer to True Blood
Vampire fiction, also, has been around for a very long time. Dracula by Bran Stoker was published in 1897, and fans of the genre have been enthusiastic ever since. While the 1994 film Interview With the Vampire based on Anne Rice’s novel was a huge hit with audiences, it still might not have reached those who find horror unsettling.
Buffy the Vampire Slayer (the TV show, and probably the movie that preceded it as well), likely brought new fans to the genre because it reimagined vampire lore wrapped in teen drama and coming-of-age narratives. Creator Joss Whedon introduced rich mythology and complex characters in his vampire show. Buffy introduced a unique blend of action, humor, romance, and drama, presenting vampires not just as terrifying creatures but as nuanced figures with compelling backstories and motivations.
Buffy explores themes like morality, identity, and redemption through a supernatural lens which can open a nonfan up to discovery of the genre. This potential for depth and emotional resonance can be found in the wider realm of contemporary series like Angel, True Blood, and Vampire Diaries.
Star Wars to Battlestar Galactica
There is no question that Star Wars revolutionized the sci-fi genre. Beyond that, it captivated new fans to sci-fi by blending futuristic technology with timeless storytelling and relatable characters. When George Lucas introduced the original trilogy in 1977, the franchise was accessible to a broader audience by combining innovative special effects, a hero’s journey, and romance. Star Wars infused the genre with emotional depth, humor, and heart, appealing to both hardcore enthusiasts and newcomers. And since it was absolutely massive in terms of popularity, there is no question that those who might never seek out a sci-fi story set in space inevitably watched and loved it.
Fans who found the genre through Star Wars might have also been open to Battlestar Galactica, another space opera with sprawling intergalactic conflicts. When the original Battlestar Galactica premiered in 1978, it was seen by many as a series that captured a similar sense of adventure. Its focus on survival, moral dilemmas, and humanity’s struggle against a relentless enemy resonated with Star Wars enthusiasts who craved more stories set against the backdrop of space exploration. The reimagined Battlestar Galactica series in the early 2000s brought a darker tone and thought-provoking commentary on war, politics, and human nature. Both franchises shared a commitment to world-building and exploring universal themes, and gave new fans to the genre more nuanced science fiction storytelling than they might have expected.
Pokémon to anime
Pokémon is the biggest, most successful anime franchise of all time. The mainstream media franchise consists of video games, TV series, films, games and more featuring unique adorable creatures within the storyworld. The global success of Pokémon in the late 1990s through today has served as a gateway for millions of fans to discover and embrace anime. With so many different points of entry for the average potential fan, Pokémon was their first exposure to the distinct art style and narrative approach of Japanese anime, opening the door to other titles within the genre.
As fans became invested in Pokémon, they’ve grown more curious about other Japanese anime series, often discovering titles like Dragon Ball Z, Sailor Moon, and Naruto. The cultural crossover has paved the way for anime to gain a stronger foothold in Western markets, breaking down stereotypes and showcasing its diverse storytelling potential. By creating a shared experience that bridged global audiences, Pokémon became a cultural phenomenon that not only expanded its own universe but also introduced an entirely new generation of fans to the rich and varied world of anime.
BTS to K-Pop
The South Korean boy band BTS, also known as the Bangtan Boys, has played a transformative role in expanding the global reach of K-pop and inspiring a broader fandom for the genre. BTS is the all time bestselling musical act in South Korean history, and their reach has extended worldwide. Their relatable lyrics touch on themes like mental health, self-love, and resilience, and resonate with a diverse international audience, breaking language barriers and cultural differences. Perhaps their biggest asset is the official fandom: the BTS ARMY, an extremely organized online community that emerged through social media and is dedicated to the success of the band all over the globe. ARMY engages in translation efforts across the fandom, breaking down songs, videos, and more for their multicultural base so that everyone, regardless of whether or not they speak Korean, can deepen their understanding of the band’s work and feel more connected. BTS also heavily interacts with the ARMY which makes fans feel engaged and valued.
The music itself is high-energy and genre-blending, with songs that incorporate elements of pop, hip-hop, and R&B. The combination of a dedicated organization eager to welcome new fans into the fray and an accessible blending of musical genres has made BTS a lightning rod for expanded K-pop fandom in the west.
BTS’s success has created a ripple effect across the industry. Their achievements highlighted the artistry and production quality of K-pop as a whole, encouraging fans to dive deeper into the wider ecosystem of groups, solo acts, and subgenres. Groups like BLACKPINK, EXO, and TWICE have gained international recognition as more fans seek out diverse K-pop content. There has even been a stage musical on Broadway and off-Broadway dedicated to the intricacies of the genre and the industry at large. By proving that K-pop could thrive on a global scale, BTS helped transform the genre from a niche interest into a mainstream cultural phenomenon, solidifying their legacy as trailblazers for the international success of Korean music.
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