: This paper provides a foundational look at the key assumptions regarding why humans consume entertainment, focusing on intrinsic motivations and the functional role media plays in fostering social connections [26].
This creates an immersive ecosystem where fans can "live" within their favorite stories. Franchises like Marvel, Star Wars, and The Last of Us leverage this to maintain engagement year-round, turning casual viewers into dedicated lifelong fans. The Future: AI, VR, and the Metaverse
š