The Internet Movie Database is as old as the World Wide Web itself, and as it enters its 36th year of activity, it is getting an important update. For the first time, the website known as IMDb is adding labels that identify various types of digital creators.
“Digital creator” will become the newest professional category on IMDb, which also classifies more than 40 other types of creative workers. Once a profile is tagged as a digital creator, it can add a subcategory, further specifying that particular creator’s line of work. Available subcategories include streamer, vlogger, video essaying, video creator, gaming creator, and influencer.
Though proper labeling on artistic credits may appear to be a cosmetic concern, it can have a significant impact on dealmaking efforts. For example, data from the creator database Famous Birthdays has been used to inform brand partnerships between sponsors and up-and-coming creators.
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For years, creators have sought proper accreditation for the work they do on platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Twitch. Some industry bodies, like the Creators Guild of America, have established services that formally list the projects creators have worked on. IMDb’s decision to take that step adds more legitimacy to the burgeoning creator economy.
IMDb will formally introduce its digital creator category during an event at the Toronto International Film Festival. Attendees will be able to celebrate creators while learning about the work IMDb has done alongside Canadian guilds.
The digital creator label is rolling about across IMDb and its premium counterpart, IMDbPro. “IMDbPro empowers entertainment professionals with tools that help them get discovered, build their reputation, and advance their careers,” said IMDb CEO Nikki Santoro in a statement. “Digital creators and their representatives need that same infrastructure, and producers, casting directors, studio executives and brand partners need a reliable way to find them. We’re excited to add a category that bridges that gap and gives creators a discoverable industry profile.”
Thanks to the update, existing IMDb profiles for creators like MrBeast will become more accurate. And IMDb’s work won’t stop there: The database plans to launch additional professional categories in the future.
