Comparing Cinematic Conventions through Emotional Responses in Cinematic VR and Traditional Mediums

This paper compares emotional responses to cinematic conventions in cinematic virtual reality (CVR) versus traditional mediums. We conducted a between-subjects experiment to evaluate viewer experiences across 10 cinematic shot types displayed through three viewing mediums: computer screen, cinema projector, and VR headset (N=15 per condition). Using the Self-Assessment Manikin scale (SAM), we measured pleasure, arousal, and dominance reactions. The statistical analysis showed that CVR elicited significantly higher arousal and lower dominance than traditional formats, indicating enhanced emotional engagement. Overall patterns were found to be similar, but the viewers' emotions were intensified in CVR for shots like close-up and ground-level. Our findings suggest CVR's embodied, interactive qualities altered the impact of cinematic techniques. This comparative study reveals CVR invokes different emotional resonance versus traditional mediums, contributing insights on adapting storytelling strategies for the VR cinematographic experience.