TikTok Unveils ‘Spotlight’ Feature, Linking Fan Videos to Movies and TV Shows

TikTok is introducing a new feature called “Spotlight” that will transform how users interact with movies and TV shows on the platform. Spotlight will create in-app hubs for popular films and series, automatically embedding links on fan-made videos that connect viewers directly to more content, ticketing options, and streaming services.

Spotlight is designed to deepen the connection between TikTok’s vast community of creators and the entertainment industry. When users post videos that reference or are inspired by a movie or TV show, TikTok will add a link in the bottom-left corner of the video. This link will direct viewers to a landing page filled with detailed information about the title, including cast lists, related content, and official accounts. Additionally, it will provide users with options to either buy tickets for upcoming films or find out where they can stream the show or movie in question.

This feature isn’t just about convenience—it’s a strategic move by TikTok to position itself as a key player in the entertainment ecosystem. By seamlessly integrating entertainment content within its platform, TikTok is creating a new revenue stream while also offering studios and streaming services a direct line to its highly engaged audience.

The first big test of Spotlight was in partnership with Warner Bros. Discovery, promoting Dune: Part Two. Fans scrolling through related TikTok videos might have noticed the dedicated hub that appeared, offering them a deeper dive into the Dune universe and easy access to ticket purchasing. The success of this pilot run indicates that TikTok users are not only open to this type of integration but are actively engaging with it.

For creators, Spotlight represents a new way to capitalize on their content’s popularity. By linking their videos to official movie or TV show pages, they can attract more views and possibly gain the attention of studios looking for fresh promotional opportunities.

As TikTok continues to evolve, features like Spotlight highlight the platform’s ambition to go beyond being just a space for viral videos. It’s positioning itself as a dynamic hub where entertainment and social interaction converge, offering users a richer, more interactive experience that keeps them engaged on multiple levels. With this new feature, TikTok is not just following trends; it’s setting them, one video at a time.