Capitalizing on the success of the company’s debut DVD title “The Crash Pad,” the website offers users exclusive content in a serialized format with recurring characters, diverse sexuality and social networking features.
The first installment of the online series can be viewed at crashpadseries.com , with the next episode to follow within a week.
“After witnessing the DVD success of our films,” Pink and White’s Shawn Tamaribuchi said, “I knew it was time to break into the online market and open up the access to our films.”
According to Tamaribuchi, the cross-marketing appeal of Pink and White’s production has been strong for their DVD line and she expects that to carry over online.
“I believe a high percentage of sells are to men. Our product represents the authentic and diverse nature of sexuality and gender. It's inclusive and for everybody, which is what is so wonderful about it,” Tamaribuchi said. “People, including men and some mainstreamers, love our products because they capture something that many others don't. The authentic passion between bodies is something that often escapes the cameras of Hollywood. That's what people are paying for; that's what they want to see.”
Tamaribuchi is public relations manager and also has been in charge of design and development for the site. As with many smaller production companies, Tamaribuchi wears many hats and also is a performer in Pink and White’s DVD productions and, now for web content as well.
Company founder Shine Louise Houston is in charge of production of exclusive content for the site.
Interactive social networking features allow users to give their feedback on the site’s forum. There also is access to a store area, in partnership with online retailer Blowfish.com, where users can purchase various Pink and White products.
“I think the real beauty of our site is that we take an excellent product and expand it into this ongoing series that will be completely tied into the networking and community features,” Tamaribuchi said.
“This is a complete fabrication of the intimate dramas that happen in online profile communities that takes it a step further by offering clients the ability to get a first-hand glimpse through content and having the ability to potentially impact the drama/content,” she said. “Just think of it as your ‘top 10’ friends who you are able to interact with, spy on and watch having sex.”
Tiered memberships packages range from $20 to $40. At the lowest level, members can view photos only. The intermediate level includes photos and streaming video. The top level allows users to access photos and downloadable streaming content.
“The Crash Pad” DVD was Houston’s directorial debut. Released in December 2005, it garnered critical acclaim for its realistic portrayal of alternative sexual orientations and use of amateur and professional performers from the genderqueer community.
“The Crash Pad” was followed by two other titles from Pink and White: “Superfreak” which released in late 2006 and “In Search of the Wild Kingdom” which hit the street in January.