Burble
React Movie Discovery Application
Project Overview
Burble is a responsive movie discovery application built with React that leverages The Movie Database (TMDB) API to provide users with comprehensive movie information, ratings, and recommendations. The application focuses on delivering a smooth, Netflix-like browsing experience with modern UI/UX patterns.
Problem Statement
Movie enthusiasts often struggle to discover new films that match their preferences across multiple streaming platforms. Existing solutions either lack comprehensive movie data or provide poor user experiences on mobile devices. There was a need for a unified, responsive platform for movie discovery.
Target Audience
Movie enthusiasts, casual viewers, and anyone looking to discover new films based on genres, ratings, and popularity trends.
Key Features
- Comprehensive movie search with real-time results
- Detailed movie information including cast, crew, and ratings
- Responsive grid layout optimized for all screen sizes
- Genre-based filtering and sorting options
- Movie trailer integration and media galleries
- Trending and popular movie recommendations
Technical Stack
Frontend
Backend
Database
Tools & DevOps
Architecture & Technical Decisions
System Architecture
Single-page application built with React using functional components and hooks. The app communicates with TMDB API through Axios for data fetching, implements responsive design with Sass, and uses local storage for user preferences. Deployed on Netlify with continuous deployment from GitHub.
Key Trade-offs
- Used TMDB API instead of building custom backend to focus on frontend skills
- Chose Sass over CSS-in-JS for better separation of concerns and easier maintenance
- Implemented client-side routing over server-side for better user experience
- Used local storage instead of user accounts to reduce complexity while maintaining personalization
Development Process
Timeline
2 months from initial design to production deployment
Key Challenges
- • Managing API rate limits while providing smooth user experience
- • Implementing responsive design that works across all device sizes
- • Optimizing image loading and performance for movie posters
- • Handling API errors gracefully and providing meaningful user feedback
Key Learnings
- API optimization strategies significantly impact user experience
- Responsive design requires careful consideration of content hierarchy
- Error handling and loading states are crucial for API-dependent applications
- User testing revealed the importance of intuitive navigation patterns
Results & Impact
Key Metrics
User Feedback
Love the clean interface and how fast the search results appear. Much better than other movie apps I've tried.
The mobile experience is fantastic. I use it all the time to check movie ratings before deciding what to watch.
Great way to discover new movies. The trending section has introduced me to films I never would have found otherwise.
Future Improvements
- User accounts and watchlist functionality
- Integration with streaming service availability
- Advanced recommendation algorithm based on viewing history
- Social features for sharing and rating movies
- Offline mode for saved movie information
Interested in Learning More?
I'd love to discuss this project and my development process in more detail.