Sony Carves Out New Virtual Reality Role for Jake Zim

Studio developing promotional VR content tied to movie slate

Sony Pictures entertainment

Jake Zim has been tapped by Sony for a newly-created virtual reality role within its film division.

Zim will be senior vice president of Virtual Reality, continuing his work on promotional narrative VR content in support of the motion picture group’s theatrical releases.

Zim was moved over from his role as SVP of digital marketing at Sony. Tom Rothman, chairman of Sony Pictures Motion Picture Group, appointed him to the role, the company announced Monday.

In his new position, Zim will work closely with Kuni Suzuki, EVP of strategic corporate initiatives, as well as other VR professionals at Sony Pictures working in production and distribution.

In his previous marketing role, Zim oversaw promotional VR initiatives for Sony, including the creating of the immersive “Ghostbusters: Dimension” VR experience at Madame Tussauds New York. The project represented a collaboration between Sony and The Void.

“Sony is in a unique position to shape the VR landscape with its assets in entertainment, gaming and technology,” said Rothman in a statement. “Jake has the background and expertise to help us develop innovative narrative content in this exciting new medium.”

Past VR experiences from Sony include theatrical promotions for “Goosebumps” and “The Walk” (with PlayStation VR) — both of which were also adapted as mobile VR experiences ahead of their respective home entertainment releases.

So far, Sony’s VR content has all been short form.

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