It is definitely safe to say that the comic convention scene is not what it once was. For these events, used to be can’t miss in nature and truly were a reunion of sorts with old friends. Wherein good times were the focus as was making memories. But alas, the convention circuit has become less about the fan experience and more about profits and sales, and that’s brought forth a desire to skip some shows because of incredible changes to the marketplace. Wherein the  largest shows in the nation are owned by some kind of corporate-esque entity to maximize those profits, and their power is pushing smaller conventions out of the marketplace, and some of the indie cons that pop up to take their place are just eager to make a quick buck.

But the good news is, there are still some places where you can go, where the magic of the convention experience still lives and where a relaxed and fun environment exists, and it just so happens that a con that harbors all of that wonder is about to get underway in Fort Collins, Colorado. For this weekend Wicked West Comic Expo will take place, a convention now in its third year and well, you’re likely curious how it accomplishes such warm feats in an era of profits over fun, and well… the formula WWCE puts forth to recapture the fan experience, is simple in nature. In that, it caters to the community and the experience over anything else, and those elements alone make it worth your while. 

Because when you walk through the doors of The Ranch, the event’s venue, you feel no pressure or urgent desire to see everything in a hurried fashion as you do at bigger conventions. You’re just greeted with an intelligent floor plan that puts vendors and their works front and center, with big guests peppered in and that allows for one to just walk about, check out wares and do something that doesn’t happen enough at cons… have a conversation with the artist or guest. Because it is just a laid-back environment here, even when the convention gets busy, and does indeed get busy. But that down home feel of the place, never adds pressure. You just go about your conversation and have a great time and the wonder of this con doesn’t end there.

After all, we mentioned that community is a focus, and this convention supports all communities, including the local, and the conventional community. Because so many of us love going to a con and reuniting with our friends and just hanging out and having laughs and that is what you’ll find here. That old school sense of con community, of fun, of a place where everyone belongs and can celebrate their love of pop culture in all the right ways. Not to mention it is also a celebration of art, artists, and all things creative as evidenced by its robust celebrity lineup. The kind that features talented actors and artists from across so many mediums. But what matters most… is that this is a convention that harbors something for everyone.

Since there’s entertainment for kids and young adults, and plenty for parents to see and enjoy, and it really is wonderful to know that in the midst of this fight for dollars, there are still conventions that want everyone to have a memorable experience. One that will last a lifetime and keep them coming back for more and that is what Wicked West Comic Expo accomplishes, and if by chance you’re now intrigued by this delightful convention and wish to attend, just visit WWCE’s website here, and snag your tickets to the best independent convention in the state of Colorado. One that cherishes the fan and the experience over anything else.

Ask any science fiction fan what they think of Ronald D. Moore, and their eyes will light up. Simply because Mister Moore is a beloved writer in that arena, courtesy of what he’s done for the genre over the past few decades. After all, Ronald was responsible for fleshing out the Klingon Mythos in Star Trek: The Next Generation, along with writing some of its most memorable episodes, and co-writing one of the most popular Trek films out there in First Contact, and the accolades on his long and winding resume do not end there.
​
After all, Ronald brought sci-fi into the 21st Century with his work in creating the acclaimed Battlestar Galactica reboot, and he continues to take the genre to bold new heights courtesy of his work on For All Mankind and Outlander. So, it should come as no surprise that earlier today, the Austin Film Festival announced that Ronald is going to be honored with the 2024 Outstanding Television Writer Award at this year’s Austin Film Festival, in addition to having his illustrious career spotlighted via several panels at the festival, and well… this is just wonderful news. For Mister Moore really is a pioneer in the industry and his work has inspired so many and well, to offer this honor the respect it deserves, here are all the details regarding this announcement, courtesy of the Austin Film Festival.

‘AUSTIN FILM FESTIVAL (AFF) announced today Ronald D. Moore will receive the 2024 Outstanding Television Writer Award, celebrating his impactful contributions to the landscape of television through celebrated sci-fi shows including For All Mankind, Outlander, and Battlestar Galactica.  
At AFF’s Writers Conference, happening October 24th – 27th, Moore’s career will be highlighted on two panels: “A Conversation with Ronald D. Moore”, a discussion about his career and body of work, and “Script to Screen: Battlestar Galactica”, an analysis of the seminal miniseries from concept to completion, complete with clips from the series.    

Deeply rooted in the sci-fi genre, Moore got his start in the entertainment business on the writing staff of Star Trek: The Next Generation. During his tenure there, he wrote or co-wrote 27 episodes, including the two-hour series finale All Good Things, for which he won a Hugo Award in 1994. That same year, Moore was honored with an Emmy® Award nomination and was eventually promoted to Producer. In 1994, Moore joined the writing staff of Star Trek: Deep Space Nine as Supervising Producer and was elevated to Co-Executive Producer the following year. Moore spent five seasons on the series until the end of its successful run in 1999. Moore also served briefly as Executive Consultant on the USA cable series Good vs. Evil before joining the staff of Roswell as Executive Producer. After two seasons in that post, he took over the reins as Showrunner from creator Jason Katims in its final year. In the fall of 2002, Moore was named Showrunner and Executive Producer of HBO’s critically acclaimed one-hour drama Carnivàle.  

In 2003, Moore created the re-imagined series, Battlestar Galactica, and served as Showrunner/Executive Producer of the series, which ran for four seasons.  Battlestar Galactica was honored with a prestigious Peabody® Award and twice as an official selection of the AFI (American Film Institute) top television programs for 2005 and 2006.  In 2006, Moore was nominated for an Emmy® Award for Best Writing in a Dramatic Series, and in 2008, he won an Emmy® for the Battlestar Galactica webisodes. In 2008, Moore co-wrote the pilot to the spin-off series Caprica, a drama set 58 years before the events of Battlestar Galactica. He served as Executive Producer for the run of the series. In 2010, Moore’s production company, Tall Ship Productions, signed an overall deal with Sony Television to develop and produce television series. Under the Tall Ship banner, Moore is currently producing the Golden Globes®-nominated series Outlander for Starz and For All Mankind for Apple TV+, and previously served as Executive Producer on the Amazon/Channel 4 anthology series, Philip K. Dick’s Electric Dreams, as well as the SyFy original series, Helix.  

After a decade with Sony Television, Tall Ship Productions inked an overall deal with Disney’s 20th Television in 2020, where Ron is currently developing new television projects. Moore is a native of Chowchilla, California and attended Cornell University, where he studied political science. He lives in New York with his wife, Terry. He has three children – Robin, Roxy and Jonathan. 

Austin Film Festival’s Writers Conference, happening October 24th – 27th, will again present over 150 panels on the art, craft, and business of storytelling, featuring a slate of prominent industry professionals working in film, television, and new media, including previously announced recipient of the 2024 Polly Platt Award for Producing Kathleen Kennedy. 

ABOUT AUSTIN FILM FESTIVAL & WRITERS CONFERENCE Entering its thirty-first year, Austin Film Festival & Writers Conference is a non-profit organization dedicated to furthering the art, craft and business of writers and filmmakers and recognizing their contributions to film, television, theater, and new media. AFF champions the work of aspiring and established storytellers by providing unique cultural events and services, enhancing public awareness and participation, and encouraging dynamic and long-lasting community partnerships. This project is supported in part by the Cultural Arts Division of The City of Austin Economic Development Department and Texas Commission on the Arts. The 31st Annual Austin Film Festival will take place October 24 – 31, 2024. All attendees and events are based on permitting schedules and are subject to change and/or cancellation without notice. Badges and passes are available for purchase online at www.austinfilmfestival.com or by phone at 1-800-310-FEST. 

ABOUT THE OUTSTANDING TELEVISION WRITER AWARD 
Introduced in 2000, the Outstanding Television Writer Award highlights the artistic achievements and contributions of television creators and their importance in shaping the landscape of serialized storytelling. Past award recipients include Damon Lindelof (2023), Michael Schur (2021), Keenen Ivory Wayans (2017), Marta Kauffman (2016), Norman Lear (2015), and David Chase (2000).’

When we last settled in to discuss the wondrous festival that is SeriesFest, we talked a little bit about how the festival’s unique programming lineup made it special. Because SeriesFest really is more than just panels with some programs peppered in… it’s a bastion for creativity and indie episodic storytelling. Because year in and year out, audiences and attendees are treated to a bevy of independent stories from around the world, courtesy of the festival’s Independent Pilot Completion, which really is quite the incredible experience.
 
Because it means that there is something for everyone, and that fresh voices are on display courtesy of incredible stories that captivate, and push the envelope, and take us places that we never expected to go, and well… the time has come to learn what incredible pilots SeriesFest will be showcasing for Season 10. For earlier today, SeriesFest announced the official selections for the International Independent Pilot Competition and since you’re eager to know what amazing pilots you’ll be able to enjoy May 1st through 5th, here are those official selections for Season 10, courtesy of SeriesFest.
 
‘SeriesFest, the esteemed international festival and non-profit organization dedicated to championing emerging and underrepresented voices in episodic storytelling, today announced the 45 titles from all over the world participating in the International Independent Pilot Competition at SeriesFest: Season 10. Several of these original pilots involve familiar faces including Kathy Griffin, Rex Lee (“Entourage”), Anna Camp (“Pitch Perfect”), Johnny Rey Diaz (“Primo,” “Pam & Tommy”), Tim Baltz (“The Righteous Gemstones”), Adam Ray (“Barbie”), Dede Lovelace (“Madame Web”), Peter Kim (“Bros”), Michael Polish (“Twin Falls Idaho”), Justine Marino (“The Villains”), Kit Williamson (“Mad Men”), James Bland (“Giants”), Aubrey Shae (“Nashville”), Briana Venskus (“The Walking Dead”), Willam Belli (“A Star is Born”), para-Olympian Doug Heir and more. 

This season, there are six countries represented in categories including “Independent Pilot: Drama,” “Independent Pilot: Comedy,” and “Independent Pilot: Unscripted”; “Colorado Pilots In Progress” sponsored by Visit Denver; “Pitch-A-Thon;” “Late Night” supported by Liquid Death; and “Digital Short Series.”  
 
“With the spotlight on SeriesFest’s tenth season and this monumental moment for our organization, the Independent Pilot Competition represents the evolution of our industry and champions creators from all around the world who execute brilliant content from the ground up,” shares Claire Taylor, Director, Programming, SeriesFest. “Bringing together emerging creatives and showcasing so many unique and brilliantly told stories in Denver is why we do what we do.”   

SeriesFest has curated an esteemed group of industry insiders including award-winning actors, producers, journalists, and executives to judge and determine the winner in each category which will be announced during a special ceremony on the final night. The accomplished jury includes: 

Independent Pilot Competition: “comedy,” Michael Falbo (Partner, Pacific Electric Picture Co.), Malcolm Venable (Senior Writer, Shondaland.com); “drama,” Ronald D. Moore (Executive Producer, Writer, Showrunner, Tall Ship Productions, “For All Mankind”), Chiké Okonkwo (Co-Founder, Mansa), Jocelyn Sabo (SVP, TV Development, Lionsgate); “unscripted,” Michael Rucker (Showrunner / Director, Blue Raincoat), Andrea Ambam (Programming Manager & Host, Level Forward), Diana Williams (Co-founder / CEO, Kinetic Energy Entertainment)

Late Night: Missy Laney (Director of Development, Adult Swim), Jen Yamato (Journalist and Critic)

Digital Shorts: Kasey Newton (Director, Content Acquisitions & Partnerships, Tubi), Saloni Gajjar (Staff Writer, TV, The A.V. Club), Brian Tee (Actor, “Expats”)

SeriesFest has been the launching pad for over a dozen independent projects that later secured mainstream distribution. Notable SeriesFest achievements include “Cooper’s Bar,” a SeriesFest: Season 6 official selection, which received a pick-up by AMC Networks’ and will be launching on AMC+ this spring. “Generation Por Que,“ also a SeriesFest: Season 6 official selection, acquired by HBO and now available to stream on HBO Max. Hulu acquired domestic distribution rights to the SeriesFest: Season 4 award-winning series “Everyone Is Doing Great” and the eight-episode season is now available to stream on the platform. Additionally, the winner of four awards at SeriesFest: Season 3, “Up North,” received a development deal from Byron Allen’s Entertainment Studios. Creator, Emil Pinnock, also signed a blind script deal with Blumhouse Television and has been tapped to pen an untitled Daymond John project.

SeriesFest: Season 10 promises to be a memorable celebration of creativity, diversity, and innovation in episodic storytelling.  Please see below for a detailed list of scheduled events.  

SeriesFest: Season 10 badges and Gala Tickets are on sale now and available here. General Public tickets for Hasan Minhaj at Red Rocks will be available starting March 28.   For up-to-date information, please sign up for the newsletter at www.seriesfest.com. 

SeriesFest is a non-profit organization dedicated to championing artists at the forefront of episodic storytelling. With year-round educational programs, initiatives supporting underserved voices, and professional development opportunities, SeriesFest inspires, educates, and connects a worldwide community of creators. Each year, SeriesFest culminates in a highly curated and celebrated Denver-based festival and marketplace. Dedicated to showcasing innovative episodic content, the annual festival also includes in-competition independent pilot screenings, network television premieres, panels, workshops, international series, networking events, parties, and a Closing Night Event at the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre. 

SeriesFest: Season 10, May 1-5, 2024 is presented with generous support from the following sponsors: Canva, Once Upon A Time Productions, Liberty Global, Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck, Denver Film, Caz Matthews, Xfinity, and United Airlines, along with generous support from the SCFD. Red Rocks Evening of Comedy is supported by Deadline Hollywood.’

​INDEPENDENT PILOT COMPETITION (DRAMA)

DEATHLESS
WORLD PREMIERE
Director: Stacey Maltin
Executive Producer: Jeff Weber
Writer: M. Rowan Meyer
Producers: Jackie Schwartz, MARS, Stacey Maltin
Cast: Miles G. Jackson, Connie Shi, Adinah Alexander, MARS, Jay DeYonker, Jonathan Gregg, Jeff Weber United States, 19 min

A self-destructive porn star navigates immortality 10 years after people have mysteriously stopped dying.

HEEBUCK
WORLD PREMIERE
Director: Michael Polish
Executive Producers: Michael Polish, Travis Bruyer
Writers: Michael Polish, Mark Polish
Producers: Michael Polish, Travis Bruyer, Angela Martino, Joe Berardi
Cast: Travis Bruyer, Mary Riitano, Adam Pitman, Jeff Medley, Melanie Wendt, Leon Stiffarm, Tim Dudley
United States, 39 min

In small town rural Montana, a deputy sheriff named Heebuck addresses day to day reports from the dispatch blotter, introducing several characters to the screen. All the while, his mind is set on investigating the disappearance of a girl from the Hungry Horse Reservoir. His first suspect is a man who only responds to the name “Juicebox”, whose drug addictions and crazed personality allude to a guilty verdict. With his entertaining work life occupying most of the day, Heebuck must now face the greatest challenge of all: the first date.

NEO-DOME
COLORADO PREMIERE
Director: Bonnie Discepolo
Executive Producers: Carson Nyquist, Dan Duncan, Matt Pfeffer, Mark Pfeffer, Trey Terpeluk, Steve Cundari, Roman Grimaldi
Writer: Matt Pfeffer
Producers: Anna Camp, Michael Johnson, Matt Pfeffer, Mark Pfeffer, Valerie Steinberg C
ast: Anna Camp, Michael Mosley, Nicholas Logan, Anthony Discepolo
United States, 15 min

In the shadow of America’s economic ruin and collapse, Neo-Dome follows a group of survivors on their quest to a utopian Dome, navigating post-apocalyptic dangers and the elusive promise of a better life. (SXSW Audience Award Prize)

OFF THE MENU
COLORADO PREMIERE
Director: Daniele Sestito
Writer: Daniele Sestito
Producers: Cooper Yeager, Eric Dyer, Mackenzie Zambo, Lenny Manzo, Daniele Sestito
Cast: George Lombardo, Chuja Seo, Garrett Hendricks, Cory Shanbom
United States, 37 min

A grandiose Italian cook takes great pride in his one-of-a-kind profession, until he's forced to make a meal that's beyond his grasp.

PALOOKAVILLE
COLORADO PREMIERE
Director: Theodore Collatos
Writer: Theodore Collatos
Executive Producer: Sharon McMorrow Producers: Carolina Monnerat, Matt Grady, James Kimberling
Cast: Howard Lester, Franqi French, Edy Modica
United States, 17 min

Things get turned upside down when JoJo wakes up believing he’s Joe Louis - one of boxing's greatest legends... (Slamdance Grand Jury Prize)

POTLUCK LADIES
UNITED STATES PREMIERE
Director: Shazia Javed
Executive Producer: Shazia Javed
Writer: Shazia Javed Producer: Shazia Javed
Cast: Natasha Krishnan, Elisa Moolecherry, Kavita Musty
Canada, 24 min

Sumaira, Azra, and Ruby live in “The Wives Condos” in the suburbs of Toronto with their children, while their husbands work in other countries. They initially meet at potluck lunches, a weekly guilt-free escape from the loneliness of immigrant life. At first glance, they seem to be living perfect lives, but when their carefully crafted facades crumble, they must learn to be vulnerable and seek each other’s support.

SEE/SAW
WORLD PREMIERE
Directors: R. Keith Harris
Executive Producer: Tonya Beaumire Writer: R. Keith Harris
Producers: R. Keith Harris, Lovinder Gill, Jenna Cusack
Cast: Rob Trevelier, Audrey Hope, Brian LaFontaine, Lee Spencer, R. Keith Harris, Brady Hepner, Luna Riveria, Enya Flack
United States, 32 min

After the abduction of one friend and the mysterious death of another years later… A young woman, with a nose for trouble, digs for the truth, exposing town secrets and the true target of a killers revenge - Her own father.

SKIN NORTH
AMERICAN PREMIERE
Director: Saša Hajduković
Executive Producers: Jelena Babić, Đorđe Radusin
Writer: Nikola Pejaković Producer: Brankica Janković
Cast: Nikola Pejaković, Vesna Trivalić, Jovo Maksić, Nataša Ninkovič, Ljubiša Savanović
Serbia, 43 min

Slobodan Milošević, a former drug addict and dealer, is released from prison in The Hague after 15 years. Without documents, without money, burdened with immense guilt and unresolved relations from a country devastated by war, the journey home will not be easy. In Banja Luka, Slobodan's hometown, former friends, relatives, and abandoned loves will await him. A complicated web of relationships and conflicts over the sale and distribution of narcotics will cast doubt on Slobodan, and this time, innocent or not, he will again find himself targeted by the law.

THE DISPOSABLES
NORTH AMERICAN PREMIERE
Directors: Sonia Whiteman, Renny Wijeyamohan
Executive Producer: Margaret Ross, Oliver Lawrance, Scott Otto Anderson
Writers: Sonia Whiteman, Renny Wijeyamohan, Keir Wilkins, Saman Shad
Producers: Karen Radzyner, Renny Wijeyamohan
Cast: Sumi Gunaratnam, Lakota Johnson, Rajan Velu, Jordan Rodrigues, Josh Pyman, Heidi Arena, Zenia Starr
Australia, 23 min

When sixteen-year-old refugee Priya’s dad goes missing and is blamed for unleashing a terrifying, mutating plastic-borne beast on the suburbs of Sydney, Priya and her best friend Obi must navigate a community in which they are treated as undesirables in order to find her dad, clear his name, destroy the creature plaguing their neighbourhood, and land a visa to stay.

THIS BOY’S VIDA (MADE IN AMERICA)
WORLD PREMIERE
Director: Adrienne Acevedo Lovette
Executive Producers: Joseph Castillo-Midyett, Brett E. Lewis, Margaret A. Romolo-Zukor, Alan Simon, Ramón y Mercedes Chípe, Josie Rivera
Writer: Joseph Castillo-Midyett
Producers: Gisela Chípe, Heidi-Marie Ferren, Adrienne Acevedo Lovette
Cast: Sebastian Montanez, Joseph Castillo-Midyett, Nathalie Sepulveda, Gisela Chípe, Sofie Nesanelis, Catherine Curtin, Heidi-Marie Ferren
United States, 25 min

With the help of his imaginary future self, a boy who dreams of being an actor turns "Robin Hood" to feed his sisters, until the system catches up.

INDEPENDENT PILOT COMPETITION (COMEDY)

AND CUT!
COLORADO PREMIERE
Creator: Arjun Chatterjee
Director: Arjun Chatterjee
Executive Producers: Arjun Chatterjee, Willie Lee
Writers: Arjun Chatterjee, Ishika Sharma
Producer: Joelle Fernandes, Arjun Chatterjee
Cast: Akash Arora, Aakash Ahuja, Nitya Mathur, Riddhi Kumar, Girish Sharma
India, 32 min

A tiny film studio in Mumbai navigates everyday challenges while struggling under the leadership of an eccentric director and a queer producer.

BETTENDORF TALKS
COLORADO PREMIERE Creators: David Pasquesi, T.J. Jagodowski
Director: Jack C. Newell
Executive Producers: Markie Glassgow, Ted Reilly, Kelly Waller
Writers: David Pasquesi, T.J. Jagodowski
Producers: Jack C. Newell, David Pasquesi, T.J. Jagodowski, Shane Simmons
Cast: David Pasquesi, T.J. Jagodowski, Tim Kazurinsky, Sadeih Rifai, Nnamdi Ngwe, Emma Pope, Cassie Kramer, Brian King, Ike Reilly and the Ike Reilly Assassination Band
United States, 19 min

A comedy duo of former, middling fame put on a late-night talk show in Bettendorf, Iowa.

BROKEN TOILETS
COLORADO PREMIERE
Creator: Jesse Toledano
Director: Jesse Toledano
Executive Producers: Thomas Mahoney, David Benyisha, Zakary Levin, and Jesse Toledano Writer: Jesse Toledano
Producer: Justin Ambrosino
Cast: Luzer Twersky, Dede Lovelace
United States, 22 min

A Hassidic property manager and a couple of his tenants come together to make hip-hop as they navigate the everyday struggles of their lives.

CARLY DOLLS
COLORADO PREMIERE
Creator: Lindsay Newland
Director: Maudie Schmidt, Jaxson Power
Executive Producer: Chapman University
Producer: Isabella Hermelin
Cast: Martha Shaw, Madi Bready, Kara Jobe, Tatianna Juarez
United States, 20 min

When Carly, a naive, homeschooled fourteen-year-old, is forced to face the treacherous waters of public high school, she turns to her beloved dolls, Lily and Mermia, for comfort and advice. Sprung from Carly's own vivid imagination and taking the form of lifesize "friends," they guide Carly through the ups and downs of growing up, fitting in, and figuring herself (and her sexuality) out.

GIRLS AREN’T FUNNY
COLORADO PREMIERE
Creator: Jasia Ka
Director: Jasia Ka
Executive Producers: Kecia Elan Cole, Kuye Youngblood, BRIC-TV, Jasia Ka
Writers: Jasia Ka, Amamah Sardar
Producers: Jasia Ka, Lou Wang Holborn, Raynita Vaughn
Cast: Amamah Sardar, Zubi Ahmed, Sadhana Singhal, Farooq Hussain, Usama Siddiquee, Caleb Eberhardt, Kelly Bachman, Dan Yang, Liza Dye
United States, 20 min

Created and directed by Jasia Ka, GIRLS AREN’T FUNNY is a ground-breaking drama-comedy series that interweaves the hilarious, powerful stories of three incredible young women and non-binary comedians in NYC as they take on the male-dominated comedy industry. The series is based on real experiences and features an all star cast of real-life comedians. The pilot episode introduces Amamah as she attempts to balance her blossoming comedy career and her conservative Muslim Pakistani family’s expectations back at home on Long Island.

LARRY IN THE SKY WITH DIAMONDS
COLORADO PREMIERE
Creators: Peter S. Kim, David Sonnenborn
Director: David Sonnenborn
Executive Producers: Peter S. Kim, Aaron Klemanski, Rex Lee, David Sonnenborn
Writers: Peter S. Kim, David Sonnenborn
Producers: Lauren C. Brooks, Clement Chan, Wei Chen, Brent Hagata, Jeremy Klavens, Katy Palfrey
Cast: Peter S. Kim, Rex Lee, Franqi French, Sterling Jones, Harry Hart-Browne, May Lee, Andre Hotchko, Elaine Rivkin, William Shin, Esther Moon, Scot Shamblin, Elim Uraimov
United States, 24 min

When Matt, a suddenly divorced and unemployed schlub of a gay man, overdoses on psychedelics, he reconnects with his late Uncle Larry, who died of AIDS in the '90s -- possibly the only person who can get Matt's life back on track.

MARVIN IS SORRY
COLORADO PREMIERE
Creators: Alex Gehrlein, Brett Morrow, Jack Gacek
Director: Clint Pang
Executive Producers: Caroline Pommert-Allegrante, Joanna Levinger, Suzanne Packer, Andrew Gehrlein, Jennifer Gehrlein, Michael Gacek, Robert W. Fiondella, Robert J. Fiondella
Writers: Alex Gehrlein, Brett Morrow, Jack Gacek
Producers: Aidan Erbter, Kenzie Packer
Cast: Sam Song Li, Haskiri Velazquez, Lea Zawada, Matt Walton
United States, 24 min

After accidentally killing one of his fans during the filming of a YouTube video, famed YouTuber Marvin Weaver must save his career by teaming up with Tag Taggart, an alt-right news anchor bent on cultural domination.

THE BOY WHO WAS AFRAID OF EVERYTHING
NORTH AMERICAN PREMIERE
Creators: Haris Mirza, Nick Bartlett
Director: Nick Bartlett
Executive Producer: Lukas Radovich
Writers: Haris Mirza, Nick Bartlett
Producers: Haris Mirza, Nick Bartlett, Jake Blackman
Cast: Haris Mirza, Nick Bartlett, Emma Diaz, Ed Oxenbould, Lukas Radovich and Meg Fraser
Australia, 27 min

Anxiety, it's contagious. The Boy Who Was Afraid of Everything follows 19 year old Ali as he navigates his biggest fear...everything.

UNCONVENTIONAL *ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT*
WORLD PREMIERE
Creator: Kit Williamson
Directors: Kit Williamson, Miranda Bailey, James Bland, Brea Grant
Executive Producers: Miranda Bailey, Madison McKinley, Jason Beck, Christopher Miller, H. Shen, Erwin More, Ed Ruttenberg, Larissa James
Writers: Kit Williamson, James Bland, Chad Callaghan, Brea Grant, Larissa James
Producers: James Bland
Cast: Kit Williamson, James Bland, Aubrey Shea, Briana Venskus, Willam Belli, Dana Wheeler-Nicholson, Laith Ashley, James Urbaniak, and Kathy Griffin
United States, 26 min

From Kit Williamson, creator of the Emmy-winning series EASTSIDERS on Netflix, UNCONVENTIONAL follows two eccentric, queer siblings and their significant others as they try to start an unconventional family, try to stay sane in an unstable world and, most importantly, try to hold onto the bonds they share. I

NDEPENDENT PILOT COMPETITION (UNSCRIPTED)

BREAKTHROUGH
COLORADO PREMIERE
Creator: Six Point Pictures
Director: JaMar Jones
Executive Producer: Jared A. Johnston
Writers: Jared A. Johnston, JaMar Jones, LaTonya Joyce
Producers: LaTonya Joyce, Jenahye Johnson, Alexis Chinery
Cast: D'joun Smith
United States, 12 min

Breakthrough is a documentary series that explores how athletes face identity crises and depression after a life-altering event that results in their removal from the sport on a professional level. Utilizing football as the hook for the first season, this series presents the importance of seeking community and professional assistance to help bring closure to their former identities in the NFL through group therapy.

HARD TO SWALLOW
NORTH AMERICAN PREMIERE
Creators: Tunde Wey, Theo Schear
Directors: Tunde Wey, Theo Schear
Writer: Tunde Wey
Producers: Tunde Wey, Theo Schear, Ruth Gebreyesus
Cast: Tunde Wey
United States / Nigeria, 29 min

Through unsparing interviews and poetic narration, Hard To Swallow follows Tunde across the US, Mexico, Nigeria and the UK as he investigates how food culture, opportunity and power are shaped by race and class. Incorporating reflexive commentary about the filmmaking process, Tunde reveals his own hypocrisies while calling out others, prompting viewers to rethink their own position in systems of power. Unlike any food show before, and despite the chef’s exceptional taste, this show may be… Hard To Swallow.

LEGACY IN THE MAKING
COLORADO PREMIERE
Director: Dominic Gill
Executive Producers: Chris Graves, Sam Walsh, Mark Miller
Writers: Mark Miller, Lucas Conley, Dominic Gill, Nadia Gill
Producer: Nadia Gill
United States, 7 min

The “Legacy in the Making” documentary series investigates the counterintuitive notion that in today's impatient, short-term world, taking the long view is the smartest path to success. The series profiles patient, purpose-driven leaders across industries who keep their eyes on the horizon. By resisting quick wins in favor of laying foundations for the future, these unconventional founders and CEOs—at the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, Taylor Guitars, Lo & Sons, Me & the Bees and The Bluebird Cafe—ensure their socially-conscious brands will endure and thrive for generations. Based on the book: Legacy in the Making, the series is directed by Dominic Gill for Encompass Films and Produced by Team One.

LONG TIME SUN
COLORADO PREMIERE
Director: Joanna Forscher
Producers: Chloe Chapman, Joanna Forscher
Executive Producers: Rick Rubin, Leila Mattimore
United States, 61 min

Long Time Sun is a four-part epic chronicling the rise of Kundalini Yoga and the 3HO Sikh Dharma community. With unprecedented access to key members of the 3HO community’s inner circle and set against the backdrop of sixty years of American life, this intimate, multi-generational series is a microcosm through which to explore the corrosive nature of power, the spiritual toll of capitalism, the commodification of wellness, and the slide into moral ambiguity that often underlies the quest for a greater good. This is a story about family, betrayal, hope, truth and reconciliation.

THE DOUG HEIR STORY
WORLD PREMIERE
Creator: Adam Ray
Director: Adam Ray
Executive Producer: Adam Ray
Writer: Adam Ray
Producer: Adam Ray
United States, 47 min

DOUG HEIR might be the greatest champion you’ve never heard of. From the Para Olympics, to a Wheaties cover, his life ended and began in one moment.

COLORADO PILOTS IN PROGRESS (Sponsored by Visit Denver)

BREWABILITY
WORLD PREMIERE
Creators: Louise Runge, Annie Eastman
Directors: Louise Runge, Annie Eastman
Executive Producers: John Van Wyck
Writers: Louise Runge, Annie Eastman
Producers: Louise Runge, Annie Eastman / Co-Producer Matt Sauter
Cast: Aaron, Avery, Jacob, Jorge, Jose, Juliana, Michael, Rachel, Steph, Tony
United States, 20 min

A cool job can be hard to find, especially for disabled people. Enter Brewability, where the joyful and fearless staff show the world what's possible.

PITCH-A-THON! (Supported by Royal Bank of Canada Emerging Artists)

ADVANCE
Writers: Lindsay Scola and Duncan Teater
United States

ADVANCE dives into the world of a presidential campaign's advance team—eager young politicos crisscrossing the nation to craft flawless events and manage the backstage chaos. Bria Jackson, once a rising star for Senator Debra Davis's campaign, is demoted after a royal fuck up and now finds herself working under old boys' club mascot Jared Curtis. Despite their differences, Bria, Jared, and the rest of this island of misfit toys that make up the advance team must band together in hopes of turning the ship around and clenching the Democratic nomination.

REIMAGINING . . . HOOKUP CULTURE
Writer: Ebele Onyema
United States

We don’t talk about sex. Not in our schools, not in our homes, and yet somehow we think Gen Z is okay because they have this wildly outsized confidence when it comes to things like environmental justice and Tik Tok dances. But when it comes to what happens in the bedroom? That’s where you see the very real chokehold their identities have on how they meet and mate. So, we're gonna talk about sex. In the docuseries REIMAGINING . . . HOOKUP CULTURE, social worker and relationship researcher Ebele Onyema leads a diverse Gen Z cast in a series of conversations that explore their views on and, most importantly, reimagines their experiences with hookup culture in New York City. This is not a show - it's a revolution.

THE HAUNTING OF TRISHA LOZADA
Writer: Robyn Matuto
Canada

THE HAUNTING OF TRISHA LOZADA is a half-hour supernatural comedy series that follows 16-year-old Trisha Lozada as she enters the winter semester of junior year. Anxious, angry, and apathetic all at once, Trisha is hellbent on a sense of normalcy and raising her social status returning to school... it’s too bad the ghost of her overbearing Filipino-immigrant mother, Marian Lozada, is haunting her every step. Now, Trisha must deal with Marian’s unwanted opinions on everything, from her plummeting grades to her social status and an unexpected crush on the new girl, Casey. They may butt heads at every turn, but together, Trisha and Marian must help each other move on – both spiritually and emotionally.

THE OTHER LEMMING
Writer: Erin Mullane
United States

Our limited docuseries follows actress Mary Jenifer Mitchell, a girl who went on a weekend trip to New York, and ended up becoming part of comedy history. Performing at the legendary Café A GO GO, Café La Ma Ma, Broadway, Off-Broadway, London's West End and eventually finding her way to the National Lampoon. In 1973 The Lampoon went... Off- Broadway. American satirist Tony Hendra directed the rag tag cast of newbies: Christopher Guest, John Belushi, Chevy Chase, Gary Goodrow, Paul Jacobs, Alice Playten, and Mary Jenifer Mitchell. The success of the show catapulted some of its cast to legendary status while Mary was lost to time. Her journey continued with a career in country music and even a starring role in the very first made-for-cable T.V. movie. This is the unfiltered story of The Other Lemming.

UGLY
Writer: Leah Vernon
United States

Leah, a plus-size, Muslim influencer goes live on social media after storming out of her bestie’s surprise party. She’s had enough of fake ass influencers and people always mistaking her for Lizzo! Not all fat people look alike... She speaks: “What do you do when the internet turns on the real you?” Leah has worked hard to get to where she is in the industry, but trendy Gen Z TikTokers and chauvinist male podcasters are all the rave now, which means less work for her. She didn’t think that in her mid-30’s she’d have to reinvent herself to fit the mold of society’s beauty standards. After not working for a while, Leah finally catches a break and books a huge gig. Unfortunately, she finds out that herarch-nemesis IRL and online who’s much skinnier, younger, and uses social justice issues for clout, is getting paid way more than she is.

Simultaneously, Leah’s love life is spiraling. She chases after a bad boy with nice teeth and a full beard who dogs women online instead of giving the “nice” guy in her life whose crushing on her a fighting chance. At the end of the series, Leah is forced to remove the chains that social media validation has on her. She has no choice but to find out what life looks like outside of the shares, the glamorous parties, and photoshoots. Throughout the series, Leah and her besties encounter fatphobia, colorism, religious freedom of speech, and queer identity matters.

LATE NIGHT COMPETITION (Sponsored by Liquid Death and Media Partner Westword)

BITS
COLORADO PREMIERE
Creators: Lucy Porter Directors: Sarah Thurman
Executive Producers: Lucy Porter, Sarah Thurman, Kate Wilkinson
Writer: Lucy Porter
Producers: Lucy Porter, Sarah Thurman, Kate Wilkinson
Cast: Lucy Porter, Jackie Smook, Sarah Cahall, Spencer Waldner, Michael Owens
United States, 16 min

BITS is a coming-of-age story, just at an older age than we’re used to seeing. Riley has always felt at odds with her body. It could be because she’s in her twenties and has never been kissed, let alone had sex. Or because her fluctuating body image makes it hard to feel desirable. Or it could be her nosy, anthropomorphic vagina, Gina, who won’t leave her alone until she comes to terms with all of it. The not-so-odd couple navigates their conflicting senses of self as they struggle to reconcile Riley’s relationship with her body… and get her laid.

BUSCHWITCHES
COLORADO PREMIERE
Creator: Jasia Ka
Director: Jasia Ka
Executive Producer: Jasia Ka
Writer: Jasia Ka
Producer: Jackie DeNomme
Cast: Nell Amari, Shannon Hayes, Meghan Wallace, Stephanie Halovanic, Bailey Macejak, Carla Jerez, Anisa Benitez, Erica Sarda, Jasia Ka
United States, 8 min

Created and directed by Jasia Ka, BUSHWITCHES is a supernatural dark comedy series about a coven of witches living in Bushwick, Brooklyn. The Bushwitches embark on a series of magical misadventures in their mission to regain dominance in the tarot card industry and oh yeah, take down the patriarchy. If God's out and astrology is in, then all hail the Bushwitches: our 21st century disciples.

INSECTS IN THE CITY
COLORADO PREMIERE
Creators: Mark Polish, Lumo
Director: Mark Polish
Writer: Mark Polish
Producers: Logan Polish, Mark Polish, Lumo
Cast: Meagan Holder, Isabel Arraiza, David Del Rio, Daniel Davila, Logan Polish, Bailey Edwards, Cyrus Arnold
United States, 14 min

Dr. Magdalena "Maggie" L'Amour is a Love Bug and highly sought-after "sex therapist" who navigates her love life through a society driven by sex, which is rife with wicked rituals, disturbing behaviors, and carelessness. But in the midst of it all, Maggie manages to find humor in the absurdity of her surroundings. Along with her tight-knit group of friends, she works to navigate the complexities of love and life in this hilarious and sex-filled world.

MIRACLE WOOD
COLORADO PREMIERE
Creators: Johnny Rey Diaz
Directors: Johnny Rey Diaz
Executive Producers: Johnny Rey Diaz
Writer: Johnny Rey Diaz
Producers: Johnny Rey Diaz, Ash T
Cast: Alejandro Patiño, Matt McCoy
United States, 6 min

A lonely, depressed old man finds hope in a holy piece of wood.

THE NIGHTMARE
WORLD PREMIERE
Creator: Zander Padget
Director: Zander Padget
Executive Producers: Katelyn Campbell, Evan Padget, Ned Scott
Writer: Zander Padget
Producers: Hyejin "Grace" Park, Jocelyn Koo, Jesse Aultman
Cast: Kiley Rothweiler, Gabe Acevedo, James Fahselt, Hannah Jeffus, Leo Brien, Zach Allsbrook
United States, 17 min
When a supernatural monster that feeds on boredom comes to a quiet suburb, a mother of two who left her dance company behind to raise a family and a head-in-the-clouds police officer must overcome their creative demons to save the town.

DIGITAL SHORT SERIES

AMERICAN GHOST HUNTER IN PRAGUE
COLORADO PREMIERE
Creator: Mike J. Langer
Director: Bruno Pimentel
Executive Producer: Verena Puttrich
Writer: Mike J. Langer
Producer: Verena Puttrich
Cast: Jake Bernard Buckner, Lenka Olšanová, Vojtěch Babišta, Pablo Gordillo, Tomáš Vlček, Krystof Diatka, and Julie Weber
Czech Republic, 14 min

Eugene arrives in Europe’s most “haunted” city to become a paranormal investigator but quickly finds that few people share his passion for ghosts.

BARDEN AND SARAH START A PANDEMIC
WORLD PREMIERE
Creator: Tyler Peterson
Director: Tyler Peterson
Executive Producers: Tyler Peterson Meg Kelly Janette Danielson Giovana Frediani Lauren Elyse Buckley Max Kirkham
Producers: Tyler Peterson Meg Kelly Janette Danielson Giovana Frediani Lauren Elyse Buckley Max Kirkham
Writer: Tyler Peterson
Cast: Natasha Behnam, Nick Pugliese
United States, 12 min

Missing the tranquility of lockdown, Barden and Sarah try to start a second pandemic so they can stop working and go home.

DAY PLAYERS
WORLD PREMIERE
Creator: Farid Yazdani
Director: Aref Mahabadi
Executive Producers: Farid Yazdani, Aref Mahabadi, Chris D'Alessandro
Writers: Chris D'Alessandro, Terry Erickson, Jessica Latimer, Michelle Whittemore
Producer: Farid Yazdani, Ali Mashayekhi
Cast: Farid Yazdani, Ashley Leggat, Brock Morgan, Nicolette Pearse, Alex Bird, Aisha Evelyna, Patrick McKenna
Canada, 12 min

Six egomaniacal acting hopefuls compete to win the favour of their acting coach in an escalating series of bizarre class assignments.

DICK BUNNY
COLORADO PREMIERE
Creator: Susie Mendoza
Director: Katie Locke O'Brien
Executive Producers: Katie Locke O'Brien, Susie Mendoza, Kim Griffin
Writer: Susie Mendoza Producers: Becca White, Mariscela Mendez
Cast: Kim Griffin, Drew Droege, Kate Micucci, Laraine Newman, Betsy Sodaro, Sheila Carrasco, Grasie Mercedes, Brendan Griffin
United States, 15 min

As Max Griffin navigates the anxiety and isolation of new motherhood–and the frenzy that is LA mom culture–she discovers she doesn’t recognize herself anymore. Her brain is a mush of strange puppets where a fun working professional used to be. But when a caustic man-rabbit from a mysterious British children’s book comes to life to hang out with her, Max finds the unlikely ally she’s been needing all along. As she brings Dick Bunny with her to infant CPR classes and job interviews, her attempts at sourdough and adult dinner parties, Max begins to realize that maybe she's not the ideal mom, but she's still a good one, and perhaps the expectations have been the enemy all along. DICK BUNNY is a new series that explores the terrifying, heartbreakingly honest, and often untold psychology of new motherhood through the lens of comedy and magical realism.

GOOD GUY WITH A PUN
WORLD PREMIERE
Creator: Dmitry Milkin, Julius Thomas III
Director: Dmitry Milkin
Executive Producers: Geneva Wasserman, Victor Talbot, Aline Aghababian
Writer: Dmitry Milkin
Producers: Dmitry Milkin, Julius Thomas III, Shannon Taylor, Trevor Henley
Cast: Julius Thomas III, Arielle Kebbel, Zani Jones Mbayise, Pamela Shaw, Terrell Butler, Sasha Feldman, Grant Rosenmeyer, Margaret Cho
United States, 24 min

A former child star, who clings to fame by broadcasting his life on Instagram, lands a chance to revive his 90s sitcom after foiling a mass shooting.

LOOKING FOR LOVE WITH LINA
WORLD PREMIERE
Creator: Adriano Valentini
Director: Adriano Valentini
Executive Producers: Adriano Valentini, Justine Marino
Writers: Episode 1 - Written by Adriano Valentini; Episode 2 - Story by Justine Marino, Adriano Valentini; Episode 3 - Written by Adriano Valentini, Story by Justine Marino, Adriano Valentini
Producers: Adriano Valentini, Justine Marino
Cast: Justine Marino, Jordynn Lurie, Sara Emami, Carmine DiBenedetto, Ben Gleib, Sandro Iocolano, Evan Williams, Aaron Colom, Craig Low, Paul Palmeri
United States, 17 min

Interior designer Lina Desperza creates her own dating show with the hopes of finding love before she drops dead single on her fortieth birthday.

LUCY & SARA
COLORADO PREMIERE
Creator: Susan Park
Director: Susan Park
Executive Producer: Susan Park
Writer: Susan Park
Producer: Ryan Gage
Cast: Susan Park, Nicolette Morrison, Jeremy Joyce, Mark Holgate
United States, 7 min

A darkly comedic glimpse into the daily lives of two unlikely sisters as they learn to navigate life after their father's death.

PATRONS
WORLD PREMIERE
Creators: Erikson Dockery, Patrick Wimp
Director: Patrick Wimp
Executive Producers: Ted Reilly, Kelly Waller, Mark Glassgow
Writer: Erikson Dockery
Producers: Patrick Wimp, Angie Gaffney C
ast: Erikson Dockery, Kieron Harrell, St. James Jackson, David Gordon Johnson, Ashlyn Lozano, Sutter Nolan, Carlita Tucker, Noah Wimp, Kimberly Michelle Vaughan, Gabrielle Dacuycuy, Albert Jarret
United States, 16 min

Patrons follows a group of blundering, self-involved, thirst-trap seeking contestants as they try to stay out of their own way, and survive a reality TV gameshow that trains them to serve at a high end cocktail bar.

PROBLEMATIC
WORLD PREMIERE
Creators: Pranav Behari, Aditi Natasha Kini, Devyn Inez Fusaro
Director: Sushma Khadepaun
Executive Producers: Kecia Élan Cole, Kuye Youngblood, Devyn Inez Fusaro, Aditi Natasha Kini, Pranav Behari, Grace Sin
Writers: Pranav Behari, Aditi Natasha Kini
Producer: Grace Sin
Cast: Deepti Menon, Austin Ku, Usama Siddiquee, Devyn Inez Fusaro, Leah Pressman, Pranav Behari, Philip Galinsky, Rajesh Bose, Michael McBride
United States, 9 min

An unknown writer becomes an overnight media sensation when her public tirade against a finance douche goes viral. Now the voice of #WokeBrooklyn, the dynamics shift with her obnoxious boss, a deranged work rival, and her carefree BFF as the clock ticks on her 15 minutes of fame.

RAMADAN AMERICA
COLORADO PREMIERE
Creator: Asad Butt
Directors: Huriyyah Muhammad, Jumai Yusuf, Amy Omar, Kashif Pasta, Ijaaz Noohu, Asad Butt
Executive Producers: Asad Butt, Valerie Steinberg
Writers: Faroukh Virani, Jeff Chanley, Sarah Mostafa, Halimah Iman, Sarwat Siddiqui, Wahab Shayek
Producers: Thomas Bond, Sara Seligman, Emily McCann Lesser, Yuki Maekawa-Ledbetter
Cast: Rizwan Manji, Aariq Manji, Saman Hasan, Saima Huq, Kausar Mohammed, Hina X. Khan, Behzad Dabu
United States, 11 min

RAMADAN AMERICA intricately weaves diverse American Muslim tales in a vivid mosaic of Ramadan and Eid experiences in America.

SHIT ON YOUR LIP
COLORADO PREMIERE
Creators: Anna Lockhart, Elvira Ibragimova
Director: Elvira Ibragimova Executive Producers: Elizabeth Cole, Patrick Meighan
Writers: Anna Lockhart, Elvira Ibragimova
Producers: Katy Wicker, Heather Mingo, David Brown, 4AM Films
Cast: Andrew Knox, Tim Baltz, Emily Pendergast, Christopher Matias Aguila, Skyler Bible, Ryan Gaul, Allison Dunbar, Andy Hillbrands
United States, 15 min

A whistleblower in a corporate scandal attempts to regain his credibility after going on live television with schmutz on his lip.

In this modern world, sustainability is no easy task. Especially when it comes to festivals and conventions. Simply because there are new events popping up every single year that want a piece of the action, and if the convention/festival doesn’t stay one step ahead with the best guests and the best programming, they are quickly left in the dust. But sustainability in this market is possible, and for proof, look no further than SeriesFest. For the premier celebration of episodic storytelling uses that core mission statement to keep fans coming back every year. Because that edict means that amazing programming is present every single year, the kind that explores the state of the union of television, and harbors amazing discussions, and gives rise to amazing voices. 

For every single year, creatives can enter their own episodic story into the mix, and be seen, and the chance to see incredible indie programming and be part of amazing conversations are what keep this festival going and well, their incredible programming is top of mind today, because we now know what lies ahead for Season 10. For earlier, SeriesFest released the lineup for this year’s ‘fest and it’s impressive to say the least. For it will include the season three premiere of the beloved Acorn TV/AMC Networks series, Harry Wild, and discussions of course with incredible folks from the industry. Including a powerhouse panel featuring Ashley Michel Hoban and Patrick Macmanus, the brain trust behind the Dr. Death franchise and well… to properly pay respect to this year’s festival, here are all the details on the upcoming lineup, to kickoff a proper countdown to SeriesFest: Season 10. 

‘SeriesFest, the esteemed international festival and non-profit organization dedicated to elevating emerging and underrepresented voices in episodic storytelling, is thrilled to announce the full lineup forSeriesFest: Season 10. Set to take place from May 1 to May 5 in the vibrant city of Denver, Colorado, this five-day extravaganza promises to commemorate a decade of success with an array of captivating in-competition screenings, enriching panels, dynamic workshops, and exclusive television premieres.
 
In collaboration with Liberty Global, SeriesFest continues its commitment to emerging storytellers from around the world with an International Spotlight program. Showcasing original works from over nine countries, this highly-anticipated part of the festival will feature global, US and Colorado premieres.. Titles include “This is Not Sweden” (Spain, Sweden, Germany, Finland), “Zorro” (Spain, Mexico), “Estonia” (Finland, Sweden, Belgium, Estonia), “Haven of Grace” (France), “Lost Boys and Fairies” (United Kingdom), and “Split” (France).
 
SeriesFest’s signature Innovation Talk series in partnership with Liberty Global also returns. Season 10 continues the in-depth one on one executive conversations with Beatrice Springborn, President, UCP and Universal International Studios, Betsy Beers, groundbreaking producer and longtime producing partner of Shonda Rhimes (“Grey’s Anatomy,” “Scandal,” “Private Practice,” “How to Get Away with Murder”), who is receiving an “Impact Award” at the SeriesFest Soiree (previously announced), and Mark Duplass, award-winning actor, screenwriter, producer and creator of “Penelope,” the new TV series with producing partner Mel Eslyn (co-creator, showrunner and director). 
 
Festival attendees can expect an immersive experience, delving into crucial and timely topics through network screenings, engaging Q&A sessions, and thought-provoking panels. Highlights of the program include:

• Special Premiere - "Harry Wild" Season Three: AMC Networks’ streamer Acorn TV's beloved series, "Harry Wild," will unveil its third season with a special premiere screening followed by an illuminating Q&A session featuring the award-winning actress Jane Seymour.
• Debut Screening - "Unconventional": SeriesFest alumni Kit Williamson presents "Unconventional," an original series featuring a stellar cast including James Bland (also producer; “Giants”), Aubrey Shea (“Nashville”), Brianna Venskus (“The Walking Dead”) and Miranda Bailey (also executive producer, owner of Cold Irons Pictures) offering audiences a fresh perspective on storytelling.
• Screening & Panel- "A Brief History of the Future": PBS presents an episode of "Brief History of the Future," followed by an enlightening Q&A session with host Ari Wallach.
• Special Screening & Panel - Dropping Gems: How New Amsterdam Used Masterful Storytelling to Inform its Audience: Star Jocko Sims, creator/showrunner David Schulner, esteemed medical professionals Dr. Nia Mitchell, Dr. Michelle Albert and Jandel Allen-Davis will be led in a compelling conversation by TV personality, podcast host and Academy Award-winning producer, Van Lathan, to explore race disparities in medicine following a screening of the special episode, "Righteous Right Hand."
• Panel - The Methods of Multi-Hyphenates: Alysia Reiner (“Orange is the New Black”), Christy Carlson Romano (“Kim Possible”), Michelle Hurd (“Anyone But You,” “Star Trek: Picard”) share insights on pursuing passions through multiple avenues and leveraging storytelling for social change.
• Panel - State of The Industry: Industry leaders Jocelyn Sabo (SVP, Television Development, Lionsgate), Tom Verica (Head of Creative Production, Executive Producer, Director, Shondaland), Melissa Myers (Producer/Manager) and Jennifer Loren (Senior Director, Cherokee Film) and discuss emerging trends, what’s resonating with distributors and overall predictions of what’s next! 
• Panel - Celebrating Women in Showrunning: Join Nkechi Okoro Carroll (“All American,” “All American: Homecoming”), Ashley Michel Hoban (“The Girl from Plainville,” “Dr. Death”) and Michelle Paradise (“Star Trek: Discovery”) as they discuss the challenges, triumphs, and aspirations of female showrunners shaping the television landscape.
• Panel - It's In the Details: Costume Design for Television: Emmy-Award winner Terry Dresbach (“Outlander,” “Rounders”), Emmy-Award winner Lyn Elizabeth Paolo (“Queen Charlotte,” “Scandal”), Johnetta Boone (“Yellowstone”), and Salvador Perez (“The Mindy Project,” “Hocus Pocus 2,” “Never Have I Ever”) offer a behind-the-scenes look at the meticulous craft of costume design and its impact on character development.
• Panel - Mentorship and Collaboration: A Conversation with the Team Behind "Dr. Death": Explore the making of "Dr. Death" Season Two and the significance of mentorship in the television industry with seriescreator/executive producer Patrick Macmanus, series showrunner/executive producer Ashley Michel Hoban, Beatrice Springborn, President, UCP and Universal International Studios, and Kelly Funke, President, Littleton Road Productions. 
• Panel - A Conversation with Universal Studio Group’s TV Development Executives: Gain insights into the television development process from Universal Studio Group's esteemed executives, including Kelsey Balance, Vivian Cannon, Jim Donnelly, Monica Rodman, and Marc Velez.

 
"Season 10 of SeriesFest marks a milestone in our journey to elevate emerging and underrepresented voices in episodic storytelling. As we honor a decade of success, we are thrilled to present an unforgettable lineup that embodies creativity, diversity, and innovation,” commented Randi Kleiner, CEO and Co-Founder. “We can’t wait to bring this incredible community of storytellers and industry luminaries around the world back together in Denver to inspire, inform and celebrate!”  
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As previously announced, Hasan Minhaj will headline the Season 10 closing night at Red Rocks Amphitheatre on Sunday, May 5. SeriesFest also welcomes Betsy Beers, Shondaland, cast and creators from “Grey’s Anatomy,” SAG-AFTRA and award-winning Minnie Driver, honorees at the inaugural SeriesFest Soiree, a special night celebrating their impact on television. “Grey’s Anatomy’s” showrunner Meg Marinis, actor James Pickens Jr, Kevin McKidd, Caterina Scorsone and Kim Raver will also take part in a one-of-a-kind panel earlier that day, Legacy in Television: Grey’s Anatomy, reflecting on the impact of the two decades of the iconic medical drama. 
 
SeriesFest: Season 10 promises to be a memorable celebration of creativity, diversity, and innovation in episodic storytelling.  Please see below for a detailed list of scheduled events.  
 
SeriesFest: Season 10 badges and Gala Tickets are on sale now and available here. General Public tickets for Hasan Minhaj at Red Rocks will be available starting March 28.   For up-to-date information, please sign up for the newsletter at www.seriesfest.com. 
 
SeriesFest is a non-profit organization dedicated to championing artists at the forefront of episodic storytelling. With year-round educational programs, initiatives supporting underserved voices, and professional development opportunities, SeriesFest inspires, educates, and connects a worldwide community of creators. Each year, SeriesFest culminates in a highly curated and celebrated Denver-based festival and marketplace. Dedicated to showcasing innovative episodic content, the annual festival also includes in-competition independent pilot screenings, network television premieres, panels, workshops, international series, networking events, parties, and a Closing Night Event at the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre. 
 
SeriesFest: Season 10, May 1-5, 2024 is presented with generous support from the following sponsors: Canva, Once Upon A Time Productions, Liberty Global, Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck, Denver Film, Caz Matthews, Xfinity, and United Airlines, along with generous support from the SCFD. Red Rocks Evening of Comedy is supported by Deadline Hollywood.’

WEDNESDAY, MAY 1, 2024
“UNCONVENTIONAL” - INDEPENDENT ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT SCREENING AND PANEL
In Attendance: Creator Kit Williamson, executive producer/actor Miranda Bailey, producer/actor James Bland, actors Aubrey Shea and Brianna Venskus
​
From Kit Williamson, creator of the Emmy-winning series EastSiders on Netflix, Unconventional follows two eccentric, queer siblings and their significant others, as they try to start an unconventional family, try to stay sane in an unstable world and, most importantly, try to hold onto the bonds they share.
 
“ESTONIA” (FINLAND, SWEDEN, BELGIUM, ESTONIA) - INTL SPOTLIGHT SPECIAL SCREENING - *COLORADO PREMIERE* 
 
A gripping drama based on the sinking of the MS Estonia, one of the deadliest maritime disasters in European history. 
 
THURSDAY, MAY 2, 2024
“A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE FUTURE” (PBS) - SCREENING AND PANEL
In Attendance: Host, Ari Wallach, co-founder of Futurific 
 
Hosted by futurist Ari Wallach, the non-fiction documentary series challenges the dystopian framework embraced by popular culture by offering a refreshing take on the future exploring potential solutions to our existential threats. The program invites viewers to imagine a world that is full of discovery, hope, and possibility – inspiring each of us to understand our power to shape the future that future generations need us to so they can flourish.
 
A CONVERSATION WITH UNIVERSAL STUDIO GROUP’S TV DEVELOPMENT EXECUTIVES - PANEL
In Attendance: Kelsey Balance (SVP, Global Scripted Series, Universal International Studios),Vivian Cannon (EVP, Drama Development, Universal Television), Jim Donnelly (EVP, Comedy Development, Universal Television), Monica Rodman (EVP, Development, Universal Television Alternative Studio), Marc Velez (SVP and Head of Development, UCP)
 
From assessing pitches to staffing writers' rooms to offering script notes and more, Universal Studio Group's television executives dive deep into their development processes and share what makes for a strong, mutually advantageous relationship between creators and a studio.
 
IT'S IN THE DETAILS: COSTUME DESIGN FOR TELEVISION - PANEL
In Attendance: Terry Dresbach (“Outlander,” “Rounders”), Lyn Elizabeth Paolo (“Queen Charlotte”), Johnetta Boone (“Yellowstone”), Salvador Perez (“The Mindy Project,” “Hocus Pocus 2,” “Never Have I Ever”)
  
No matter the genre or time period, costumes are key in conveying the core of the story in TV drama and comedies. Driven by the details, Costume Designers tirelessly research contemporary and vintage fashion trends and lifestyles in the pursuit of deepening the connection to the character for both the performer and the audience. Join SeriesFest for an in depth conversation into this unsung art form with Costume Designers from some of your favorite series. 
 
THE METHODS OF MULTI-HYPHENATES - PANEL
In Attendance: Alysia Reiner (“Orange is the New Black”), Christy Carlson Romano (“Kim Possible”), Michelle Hurd (“Anyone But You,” “Star Trek: Picard”)
 
Pursuing their passions through multiple avenues, these Multi-Hyphenates are taking on the entertainment industry and beyond. It can't be denied that the combination of creativity, entrepreneurial drive, and social platforms is impacting the business of television and forging new pathways for artists onscreen and behind the camera. Join SeriesFest for a BTS conversation with a versatile group of Multi-Hyphenates on navigating the business and using the power of storytelling to create change.
 
STATE OF THE INDUSTRY - PANEL
In Attendance:  Jocelyn Sabo (SVP, Television Development, Lionsgate), Tom Verica (Head of Creative Production, Executive Producer, Director, Shondaland), Melissa Myers (Producer/Manager) and Jennifer Loren (Senior Director, Cherokee Film) 
 
Episodic storytelling has seen epic levels of success in recent years, but with streaming wars, corporate mergers, and an overwhelming amount of available content, the landscape is constantly shifting. Join entertainment industry leaders for a discussion on emerging trends, what distributors are currently looking for, and predictions for what’s next.
 
“HAVEN OF GRACE” (FRANCE) - INTL SPOTLIGHT SPECIAL SCREENING AND PANEL - *U.S. PREMIERE*
In Attendance: TBA
 
While celebrating his 60th birthday with his family, Pierre's sons are arrested for drug trafficking.
 
FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2024
DROPPING GEMS: HOW ‘NEW AMSTERDAM’ USED MASTERFUL STORYTELLING TO INFORM ITS AUDIENCE- PANEL 
In Attendance: Star, Jocko Sims, creator/showrunner David Schulner, esteemed medical professionals Dr. Nia Mitchell (Mile High Medical Society), Dr. Jandel Allen-Davis (President and CEO of Craig Hospital), Dr. Michelle Albert(immediate-past president American Heart Association); Moderator: Van Lathan, TV personality, Podcast host and Academy Award-winning producer 
Join us for a conversation with star, Jocko Sims, and creator, David Schulner along with Dr. Nia Mitchell, Dr. Jandel Allen-Davis, and Dr. Michelle Albert as we watch one of New Amsterdam’s most memorable episodes, and discuss how the lack of black doctors in America’s healthcare system impacts everyone. Author and Academy Award winner, Van Lathan moderates as television creators and real medical professionals bring insight, as we move ever closer towards answering the famous New Amsterdam mantra, “How can I help?”
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INNOVATION TALK: BEATRICE SPRINGBORN - PANEL 
In Attendance: Beatrice Springborn, President, UCP and Universal International Studios
 
Join SeriesFest for a one-on-one conversation with Beatrice Springborn, President of two renowned global television studios, UCP and Universal International Studios. Springborn will shine a light on the creative strategy behind the studios’ acclaimed programming, her team’s collaborative process with best-in-class storytellers and what’s next on the horizon.
 
LEGACY IN TELEVISION: GREY'S ANATOMY - PANEL
In Attendance: showrunner Meg Marinis, actors Kim Raver, James Pickens Jr, Kevin McKidd and Caterina Scorsone
 
For almost two decades, audiences have immersed themselves in the sweepingly romantic and operatic lives of the staff at Seattle Grace Hospital. Shondaland’s “Grey’s Anatomy” has consistently tackled hot-button issues through the eyes of its compelling characters navigating moral and ethical quandaries we can all relate to.
 
At SeriesFest: Season 10, we will invite fans and filmmakers to celebrate the impact of “Grey’s Anatomy” with the cast and creators at the inaugural Legacy in Television Panel.
 
MENTORSHIP AND COLLABORATION: A CONVERSATION WITH THE TEAM BEHIND "DR. DEATH" - PANEL
In Attendance: Patrick Macmanus (Creator/Executive Producer, “Dr. Death”), Ashley Michel Hoban (Showrunner/Executive Producer, “Dr. Death”), Beatrice Springborn (President, UCP and Universal International Studios), Kelly Funke (President, Littleton Road Productions)
 
Join the team behind “Dr. Death” for a discussion on the making of the show’s second season, the importance of mentorship in the television industry and the collaborative development process between UCP and Littleton Road Productions.
 
SPLIT (FRANCE) - INTL SPOTLIGHT SPECIAL SCREENING AND PANEL *NORTH AMERICAN PREMIERE*
In Attendance: Ralph Amoussou (star)  
 
Anna, a 30-year-old stuntwoman, meets Ève, the movie star she doubles. A trouble sits on the movie set. The meeting with Ève turns Anna's whole life upside down, is she ready to leave heterosexuality?
 
“THIS IS NOT SWEDEN” (SPAIN, SWEDEN, GERMANY, FINLAND) - INTL SPOTLIGHT SPECIAL SCREENING AND PANEL - *NORTH AMERICAN PREMIERE*
In Attendance: Aina Clotet (Director/Executive Producer/Writer/Star), Marcel Borràs (Star), Marta Baldó (Executive Producer) 
 
THIS IS NOT SWEDEN shows the contradictions faced by a young couple when it comes to protecting their children from the dangers of life. Winner of the Prix Europa Award for Best TV Fiction and selected in Official Competition in Cannes Series.
 
SERIESFEST SOIREE (*PREVIOUSLY ANNOUNCED SPECIAL EVENT)
 
A special night marking the festival’s momentous 10th anniversary. The prestigious gala will honor Shondaland & Betsy Beers, SAG-AFTRA and Minnie Driver with “Impact in Television,” “Luminaries in Television,” and “Excellence in Acting” Awards. SeriesFest’s esteemed Advisory Board, notable talent and industry executives will be in attendance. 
 
SATURDAY, MAY 4, 2024
“HARRY WILD” SEASON 3 (AMC AND ACORN TV) - SCREENING AND Q&A
In Attendance: Award-winning Jane Seymour
 
Star and executive producer Jane Seymour returns as Harriet “Harry” Wild, a retiring university literature professor who is finding herself at one of life’s crossroads. In season three, Harry and Fergus are back to solve a collection of intriguing crimes. This season, the pair are hired to prove the lead singer of Ireland’s hottest boy band didn’t kill himself, find out who decapitated a woman in a busy restaurant, discover who murdered a despotic director on the set of Ireland’s leading daytime soap opera, work out how a mystery writer managed to shoot himself in a locked panic room without a gun, and more. Meanwhile, with the agency still as busy as ever, Harry and Fergus have to find a way to balance work and life as Fergus plans to contest Paula’s custody claim to his sister. 
 
CELEBRATING WOMEN IN SHOWRUNNING - PANEL
In Attendance: Nkechi Okoro Carroll (“All American,” “All American: Homecoming”), Ashley Michel Hoban (“The Girl from Plainville,“ “Dr. Death”) and Michelle Paradise (“Star Trek: Discovery”) 
 
Back by popular demand, SeriesFest is proud to present a special panel conversation in celebration of women Showrunners breaking the glass ceiling of the television industry. These Showrunners are forging new paths for storytellers of all generations and genders by championing new perspectives that reflect shared experiences on our screens. Join us for a powerful conversation spotlighting the challenges, triumphs, and hopes of the revolutionary Female showrunners behind some of your favorite series.
 
INNOVATION TALK: BETSY BEERS - PANEL
In Attendance: Betsy Beers, television and film producer, “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Scandal,” “Private Practice,” “How to Get Away with Murder”
 
Join SeriesFest for our signature Innovation Talk series as we celebrate the incredible career of Shondaland's trailblazing Creative Partner, Betsy Beers. As a longtime producing partner of Shonda Rhimes, there is no shortage of the groundbreaking series they have created together under the Shondaland banner. This special event will highlight Beers' unique approach to storytelling and how she navigates the shifting landscape of the entertainment industry.
 
“ZORRO”  (SPAIN, MEXICO) - INTL SPOTLIGHT SPECIAL SCREENING AND PANEL - *WORLD PREMIERE* 
In Attendance: Javier Quintas (Director) & Sergio Pizzolante (Executive Producer and President, Secuoya Studios Commercial & Distribution) 
 
Determined to find out who killed his father, Diego de la Vega will assume the title of Zorro and discover family secrets that will change his destiny forever.
 
SUNDAY, MAY 5, 2024
 
INNOVATION TALK: MARK DUPLASS & MEL ESLYN WITH SPECIAL SCREENING OF ‘PENELOPE’ 
In Attendance: Award-winning actor, screenwriter, producer, Mark Duplass and Mel Eslyn (PENELOPE co-creator, showrunner, director)
 
Making independent film and tv is hard work and doesn’t come with a “how to” handbook but, fortunately, SeriesFest has a conversation to help. Join us for an in-depth conversation with Duplass Brothers Productions on how their innovative approach to production and packaging independent content is leading a revolution. Plus Duplass will receive an inaugural “Innovators Award” for his pioneering work in independent television and film.
 
“LOST BOYS & FAIRIES” (UNITED KINGDOM) -  INTL SPOTLIGHT SPECIAL SCREENING AND PANEL - *NORTH AMERICAN PREMIERE* 
In Attendance: TBA 
 
A glittering and ground-breaking drama, exploring the themes of parents, children and gay
adoption. Fusing queer culture with a powerful family drama, this is a bold, heart-wrenching
story, filled with humour and love.
 
CLOSING NIGHT: A NIGHT OF COMEDY WITH HASAN MINHAJ AT RED ROCKS AMPHITHEATRE (*PREVIOUSLY ANNOUNCED SPECIAL EVENT)

The Emmy and two-time Peabody Award-winning comedian Hasan Minhaj, best known for his breakout Netflix special “Homecoming King” and his critically-acclaimed, political satire show, “Patriot Act with Hasan Minhaj,” will headline at the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre for the very first time on the festival’s closing night. Named on TIME's "100 Most Influential People in the World," Minhaj originally rose to prominence as a senior correspondent on “The Daily Show” and hosted the White House Correspondents' Dinner. He’s also the co-founder and chief executive officer of 186KFilms that’s producing its first feature “For the Culture” with Amazon Studios.

In this current climate of peak pop culture, where festivals and conventions reign supreme, it is extremely difficult to stand out as a ‘premier’ destination. Because so many offer the same things. But believe it or not, it is possible and for proof… look no further than SeriesFest. For it truly is the premier celebration of television and episodic storytelling, and it established itself as such, courtesy of events, panels, discussions and contests that genuinely celebrate the art form that is episodic storytelling, and it’s accomplished such wonders on such matters that everyone knows this is where you go to learn about the power of television, and to see great stories from established and fresh new voices. 
​
It is also why; this festival has enjoyed great staying power. To the point where it is about to enjoy its tenth, glorious, year of existence and well, to properly celebrate such a momentous occasion, SeriesFest announced the first wave of what we can expect from this year’s ‘Fest, including some of the stars that will be in attendance and some of the events lined up and well, once again, SeriesFest has outdone themselves. Since Hasan Minhaj will headline this year’s closing event at Red Rocks, and Minnie Driver and Betsy Beers will be honored for their incredible work this year as well, and to properly pay respect to what SeriesFest has planned, here are all the details of what you can expect… when SeriesFest: Season 10 gets underway this May.  

'SeriesFest, the annual international festival and non-profit organization dedicated to championing emerging and underserved voices in episodic storytelling, is gearing up for a star-studded, milestone Season 10 in Denver, Colorado, May 1-5, 2024.
 
The Emmy and two-time Peabody Award-winning comedian Hasan Minhaj, best known for his breakout Netflix special “Homecoming King” and his critically-acclaimed, political satire show, “Patriot Act with Hasan Minhaj,” will headline at the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre for the very first time on the festival’s closing night, Sunday, May 5. Named on TIME's "100 Most Influential People in the World," Minhaj originally rose to prominence as a senior correspondent on “The Daily Show” and hosted the White House Correspondents' Dinner. He’s also the co-founder and chief executive officer of 186KFilms that’s producing its first feature “For the Culture” with Amazon Studios.
 
SeriesFest is also thrilled to announce the SeriesFest Soiree, a special night marking the festival’s momentous 10th anniversary. The prestigious gala taking place on Friday, May 3 will honor Shondaland & Betsy Beers, SAG-AFTRA and Minnie Driver.

• SeriesFest honors SAG-AFTRA with the “Luminaries in Television Award”:

Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA), an organization dedicated to championing the rights of performers across the entertainment industry, has been a partner of SeriesFest since Season One. The union annually partners on panels around diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility (DEIA), and supports the festival’s live read and “Storytellers Initiative,” cultivating lasting relationships between emerging creatives and industry executives. National Executive Director & Chief Negotiator, SAG-AFTRA, Duncan Crabtree-Ireland will return to SeriesFest to accept the award.

• SeriesFest honors Minnie Driver with the “Excellence in Acting Award”

Academy Award, Golden Globe and Emmy nominee Minnie Driver has captivated audiences with her remarkable talent for several decades bringing depth and authenticity to every role she embodies. From her breakout role in "Good Will Hunting" to her compelling portrayal in "The Riches" and her recent captivating performances in "Modern Love" and "Speechless," Driver's versatility knows no bounds. As anticipation mounts for her upcoming role in STARZ's “Serpent Queen,” this accolade is a testament to Driver's enduring contributions to the art of storytelling.

• SeriesFest honors Shondaland and Betsy Beers with the “Impact in Television Award”:

Shondaland is the global media company founded by award-winning writer and producer Shonda Rhimes. The company fearlessly entertains through storytelling with content for film, streaming, audio, digital and editorial as well as brand partnerships, merchandise and experiences. Betsy Beers, longtime producing partner of Rhimes, has developed and produced some of the company's most influential television series including “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Bridgerton,” “Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story,” “Private Practice,” “Scandal,” “How to Get Away with Murder” and the highly anticipated series "The Residence."  Shondaland has been a SeriesFest partner since 2018 for the “Women Directing Mentorship,” offering unique opportunities for rising female directors.
 
Also in attendance to celebrate Beers and Shondaland will be “Grey’s Anatomy’s” showrunner Meg Marinis, actors James Pickens Jr, Kevin McKidd and Caterina Scorsone. They will also take part in a one-of-a-kind panel earlier that day, “Legacy in Television: Grey’s Anatomy,” reflecting on the impact of the two decades of the iconic medical drama on television history. 

"We are thrilled to celebrate our milestone Season 10 with an extraordinary lineup of talent," said Randi Kleiner, CEO and Co-Founder of SeriesFest. "From Hasan Minhaj's comedic genius to the groundbreaking work of Betsy Beers, Shondaland, SAG-AFTRA, the incomparable Minnie Driver and the timeless appeal of 'Grey's Anatomy,' this year's festival promises something for everyone. We look forward to welcoming audiences to Denver for five days of unforgettable storytelling."
​
SeriesFest: Season 10 will feature a diverse array of screenings, panels, workshops, and networking opportunities, providing a platform for emerging voices and established creators alike. The full programming lineup will be announced shortly.

Don't miss this opportunity to experience the best in episodic storytelling at one of the industry's premier events.

SeriesFest: Season 10 badges and Soiree Tickets are available here. Sign-up for the SeriesFest newsletter at www.seriesfest.com to get access to pre-sale Red Rocks tickets for Minhaj starting March 27 with general public tickets available starting March 28. 

SeriesFest is a non-profit organization dedicated to championing artists at the forefront of episodic storytelling. With year-round educational programs, initiatives supporting underserved voices, and professional development opportunities, SeriesFest inspires, educates, and connects a worldwide community of creators. Each year, SeriesFest culminates in a highly curated and celebrated Denver-based festival and marketplace. Dedicated to showcasing innovative episodic content, the annual festival also includes in-competition independent pilot screenings, network television premieres, panels, workshops, international series, networking events, parties, and a Closing Night Event at the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre.
 
SeriesFest: Season 10, May 1-5, 2024 is presented with generous support from the following sponsors: Canva, Once Upon A Time Productions, Liberty Global, Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck, Denver Film, Caz Matthews, Xfinity, and United Airlines, along with generous support from the SCFD. Red Rocks Evening of Comedy is supported by Deadline Hollywood.’

It is definitely safe to say, that producers in Hollywood, sometimes have a bad rap. For we’ve heard countless stories about ones that demand so much and interfere with visions that help to foster a rough ride for filmmakers and talent. But let’s be honest, that isn’t always the norm in the industry. Because for every producer that takes that route, there are countless more than are nurturing and fostering and will in fact, go the extra mile to ensure that a vision is preserved and funded and one particular name that meets that criterion is Kathleen Kennedy.

Because over the course of her illustrious career, she’s helped to bring some of Hollywood’s most iconic stories to life and made sure that franchises that people love, continue along, to become truly generational in nature. Which is why it should come as no surprise that the Austin Film Festival is going to honor her later this year with the Polly Platt Award. To properly recognize her tireless efforts to provide the world with amazing stories that captivate, and to properly do this news justice, here are all the details on this prestigious honor, courtesy of the Austin Film Festival.

‘AUSTIN FILM FESTIVAL (AFF) announced today the Polly Platt Award for Producing is to be given to iconic producer Kathleen Kennedy, during the 2024 Writers Conference happening October 24 – 27, 2024. Established in 2019, this honor is named after industry pioneer Polly Platt, an early and longtime supporter of AFF. The award is given annually to producers with a keen sense of story, who have a history of fostering new talent. Previous recipients include Lauren Shuler Donner (2023), Dede Gardner (2022), Stephanie Allain (2021), and Sarah Green (2019).

On receiving this honor, Kennedy states,  
“I am deeply honored to receive the Austin Film Festival's Polly Platt Award for Producing. Polly was not only an incredible producer and mentor to so many, with an impact and voice still felt to this day, but also a staunch supporter of the Austin Film Festival and a dear personal friend. Polly attended every year, right up until her passing, and I look forward to celebrating her legacy in October.” 

Kennedy, previously a recipient of the Academy’s prestigious 2018 Irving G. Thalberg Memorial Award, the Producers Guild of America Milestone Award, and an eight-time Academy Award®-nominee, is one of the most successful and respected producers in the film industry today. As President of Lucasfilm, she oversees the company’s three divisions: Lucasfilm, Industrial Light & Magic and Skywalker Sound. Kennedy was the producer of Star Wars: The Force Awakens (2015), the highest grossing domestic feature of all time, as well as subsequent Star Wars features Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, Star Wars: The Last Jedi (2017), Solo: A Star Wars Story (2018) and Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker (2019). Kennedy has recently executive produced the Emmy Award-winning Mandalorian series (2019-present) that launched the Disney+ platform as well as The Book of Boba Fett (2021), Obi-Wan Kenobi (2022), Andor (2022), Ahsoka (2023) and Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny (2023).

Kennedy has produced or executive produced more than 70 feature films, which have collectively garnered 120 Academy Award nominations and 25 wins. Among her credits: Jurassic Park, E.T. The Extra Terrestrial, The Sixth Sense, the Back to the Future trilogy, Who Framed Roger Rabbit, Gremlins, The Goonies, Poltergeist, Empire of the Sun, Lincoln, War Horse, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, The Diving Bell and the Butterfly, Schindler’s List, The Color Purple, and The Adventures of Tintin. Kennedy has produced the films of directors such as Steven Spielberg, David Fincher, Martin Scorsese, Clint Eastwood, Robert Zemeckis, JJ Abrams, Julian Schnabel, Marjane Satrapi, M. Night Shyamalan, Frank Oz, Peter Bogdanovich, and Richard Donner. Kennedy recently received the Fellowship Award, the highest honor that the British Academy of Film and Television Arts can bestow. She is also the recipient of the distinguished CBE award (Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire) and was elected Chair of the AFI Board of Trustees.

Aside from her executive and producer roles, she was one of the founding Council Members of Hollywood Commission to Eliminate Sexual Harassment and Advance Equality and is currently on the board of the LA Promise Fund, Library of America, and USC’s School of Cinematic Arts. Prior to joining Lucasfilm in 2012, Kennedy headed The Kennedy/Marshall Company, which she founded in 1992 with director/producer Frank Marshall. In 1981 she co-founded the phenomenally successful Amblin Entertainment with Marshall and Steven Spielberg.

Austin Film Festival’s Writers Conference, happening October 24 – 27, 2024, will again present over 150 panels on the art, craft, and business of storytelling, featuring a slate of prominent industry professionals working in film, television, and new media.

ABOUT AUSTIN FILM FESTIVAL & WRITERS CONFERENCE Entering its thirty-first year, Austin Film Festival & Writers Conference is a non-profit organization dedicated to furthering the art, craft and business of writers and filmmakers and recognizing their contributions to film, television, theater, and new media. AFF champions the work of aspiring and established storytellers by providing unique cultural events and services, enhancing public awareness and participation, and encouraging dynamic and long-lasting community partnerships. This project is supported in part by the Cultural Arts Division of The City of Austin Economic Development Department and Texas Commission on the Arts. The 31st Annual Austin Film Festival will take place October 24 – 31, 2024. All attendees and events are based on permitting schedules and are subject to change and/or cancellation without notice. Badges and passes are available for purchase online at www.austinfilmfestival.com or by phone at 1-800-310-FEST.

ABOUT POLLY PLATT AWARD FOR PRODUCING
Introduced in 2019, the Polly Platt Award is given to producers with a keen sense of story and who have a history of fostering new talent. Named after the legendary Polly Platt who was instrumental in the early years of Austin Film Festival and was an ardent champion of writers. Past award recipients include Lauren Shuler Donner (2023), Dede Garner (2022), Stephanie Allain (2021), and Sarah Green (2019).’

There was a time, where festivals were nothing more than a destination for fans of television and film. Wherein one would enjoy new creations and hear the creators of those stories discuss what inspired them to get out there and bring it to life. But in this age of interactivity, just heading to a festival and taking in some shows is no longer enough. For the festival has become a true bastion for creativity, where up and comers can network and find inspiration… and even learn if the festival goes so chooses to offer classes that expand one’s mind, as SeriesFest will going forward. 

For the premier television festival in the land, recently announced that they have partnered with the creative entity Canva, in an effort to provide creatives with incredible resources to help them bring their story to life… and to help them learn. Since classes that feature some of Hollywood’s best and brightest will be available as part of this initiative, giving rise to a powerful partnership. One that takes what SeriesFest has to offer to a whole new level. For now, it is more than just a celebration of television, but an immersion of it, and well, to help you truly understand how amazing this partnership is going to be, here are all the details on this magnificent union, courtesy of SeriesFest and Canva.

‘SeriesFest, the non-profit organization that champions and empowers artists at the forefront of episodic storytelling, announces a new partnership with Canva focused on helping aspiring and emerging creators prepare for a career in television by providing insights and resources necessary to make headway in the industry. Through a series of virtual and in-person workshops, creators will receive the advice of vanguards in entertainment alongside live creative tutorials, helping to take their careers in television to the next level. The first ever line-up includes three workshops from celebrated industry vets including Grammy and Tony-winning Actor/Writer/Producer Daveed Diggs (Blindspotting, The Little Mermaid, Hamilton), Showrunner/Writer/Producer/Actor Rafael Casal (Loki, Co-Creator: Blindspotting) , Sue Ann Pien (As We See It), Littleton Road Productions’ Patrick MacManus (Dr. Death, The Girl from Plainville), and Kelly Funke (President, Littleton Road Productions). Applications for the SeriesFest Vanguard program presented by Canva are now open and available via https://seriesfest.com/vanguards.

"The Vanguard program is designed to highlight groundbreaking visionaries in the television industry bringing their invaluable insights directly to emerging creatives,” said Randi Kleiner, SeriesFest CEO and co-founder. “We are so proud to partner with Canva on the inaugural program, along with bringing several other new and exciting opportunities to the SeriesFest community."

In addition to the Vanguard Workshop, Canva is partnering with SeriesFest to launch the Outstanding Series Format Deck Award, in a new competition rewarding a $5,000 cash prize to the best deck submission created in Canva. Required for all SeriesFest competition categories, the Series Format Deck is an integral part to the pitch process and sale of a series. An effective Series Format Deck introduces a project in a visually exciting and emotionally powerful way. It captures the reader’s imagination, allowing them to see the full scope of the series and embrace the characters. In celebration of the unsung craft of creating a series format deck or series bible, SeriesFest’s partnership with Canva acknowledges the creativity and skill necessary to build the perfect series format deck.

Free three month trials of Canva Pro will be given to those creators who apply to select SeriesFest programs, including students, executives, and industry professionals, in an effort to help them on their creative journeys and visually bring their projects to life. Canva will be bringing its platform to SeriesFest Season 10 with a unique onsite activation, live event(s) and special award presentation.

Helping to prepare the next generation of storytellers, SeriesFest’s Collegiate Fellows program presented by Canva invites undergraduate students from across the country to apply to attend SeriesFest: Season 10 as a Collegiate Fellow and get a behind-the-scenes view of the TV and episodic industry via curated workshops and discussions, and access to premieres and panels.

Submissions are currently open for SeriesFest: Season 10, the award-winning international festival running May 1-5, 2024 in Denver, Colorado. Creators can submit for the upcoming festival through January 11, 2024.

To register for the Vanguard Workshop, click here: https://seriesfest.com/vanguards. For more information on Canva’s entertainment offerings, click here: https://www.canva.com/entertainment/
​
ABOUT SERIESFEST

SeriesFest, a non-profit organization, champions and empowers artists at the forefront of episodic storytelling by providing year-round opportunities for creators and industry professionals to connect, collaborate, and share stories, which inspire and impact global audiences. Each June, SeriesFest culminates in a highly-curated and celebrated Denver-based festival and marketplace. Dedicated to showcasing innovative episodic content, the annual festival includes in-competition independent pilot screenings, panels, workshops, live reads, parties and network television premieres. Follow @SeriesFest on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.

ABOUT CANVA
Launched in 2013, Canva is a free online visual communications and collaboration platform with a mission to empower everyone in the world to design. Featuring a simple drag-and-drop user interface and a vast range of templates ranging from presentations, documents, websites, social media graphics, posters, apparel to videos, plus a huge library of fonts, stock photography, illustrations, video footage, and audio clips, anyone can take an idea and create something beautiful.'

It’s festival season, and that means wonderful films are making their debut all across the globe. Some of which, we’ve had the honor of seeing, and reviewing, and breaking down with the cast and crew. Important films in fact, such as Re: Uniting. A powerhouse drama that tackles some stunningly timely topics about life, and it just so happens, that following its world premiere at the Austin Film Festival… it is now set to make its Canadian Debut. 

For this weekend, it will be screened at the 2023 Whistler Film Festival on Sunday, ahead of its Video on Demand Digital Debut on the 4th, and that’s quite the treat for Canadian audiences. So, they too can enjoy the majesty of this film and spread the word so more can see this moving feature. But it is not the only movie making its Canadian debut this weekend. For the post-apocalyptic drama, Finality of Dusk is also screening at the festival, and that too is another treat for audiences. Since its plot is compelling to say the least, and well… if you’re heading to the festival and if these films have caught your eye, here are all the details on these features and their screening times to help you plan accordingly at this year’s Whistler Film Festival. 

‘Pender PR is pleased to announce two highly-anticipated Canadian premieres set for the 2023 Whistler Film Festival. Award-winning director Madison Thomas’ post-apocalyptic drama FINALITY OF DUSK will have its Canadian premiere on Thursday, November 30th at 5:30 pm at Village 8 and acclaimed Vancouver writer/director Laura Adkin’s feature film RE: UNITING has been selected by the festival as a Special Presentation. RE: UNITING will have its Canadian premiere on Sunday, December 3rd at 8:30 pm at the Rainbow Theatre. We are representing some of the best and brightest filmmakers and up-and-coming talent from Canada in our lineup of feature films and the festival will also see a special Work In Progress private screening of Dr. Jules Arita Koostachin's ANGELA'S SHADOW. The Whistler Film Festival runs from Wednesday, November 29, 2023, through Sunday, Dec 3, 2023.’

To learn more about ‘Re: Uniting’, check out our spoiler-free review, and interview with select members of the cast and Laura Adkin, the film’s writer and director, here and here.

Katarina Ziervogel (co-writer), Kyle Irving (EP), Gabby Levesque (DOP) and cast Cherrel Holder, Marika Sila and Chris Dodd will all be in attendance at the Whistler Film Festival.

After an incredible world premiere at the Red Nation Film Festival, FINALITY OF DUSK will have its Canadian premiere at the Whistler Film Festival in BC. Directed by Winnipeg-based International Emmy award- winning writer/director Madison Thomas, this epic feature film was co-written by award-winning Ojibway-Mohawk and Deaf filmmaker Katarina Ziervogel, and was created to offer a full theatrical experience for all audiences, including Deaf and Hard of Hearing audiences. The sound mix of FINALITY OF DUSK is unique in that you can feel the sound of the film. Katarina participated in the post-sound process to ensure an authentic experience for Deaf and Hard of Hearing viewers. The music’s sound was done by Canadian Screen Award winning Sound Designer Daniel Pellerin and the music in the film was done by last years' Variety Top 10 to Watch Justin Delorme.
 
FINALITY OF DUSK stars Inuvialuk actress, content creator, social activist, and current VFS student Marika Sila (The Twilight Zone), Trinidadian-Canadian Cherrel Holder (Burden of Truth) and Edmonton-based Deaf playwright, actor, accessibility advocate, and Governor General Innovation Award finalist Chris Dodd in a riveting journey of survival and resilience set amidst a devastating environmental disaster in a perilous future. 
 
The year is 2045. Worldwide environmental devastation has pushed the scattered humans left into the wild spaces. Even in the brush of Manitoba’s prairies, those who remain must wear air filtration masks at all times. Ishkode (played by Marika Sila), a strong-willed Ojibwe woman, meets Niife (played by Cherrel Holder), a Nigerian climate refugee. Having lost her last remaining companion, and with a mask that is rapidly breaking down, Ishkode tries to ditch Niife. Though they don't speak the same language, Niife offers Ishkode her pristine mask for a few hours a day in exchange for food and the safety of an ally. Ishkode’s failing health motivates her to take the deal. The arrangement works, until a Deaf man, Odin (played by Chris Dodd), begins to track the women for their masks. 

Languages featured include American Sign, Anishinaabemowin, English, Yoruba

As a part of the industry conference, Katarina Ziervogel, Cherrel Holder and Chris Dodd from the FINALITY OF DUSK team will also be on a panel called TELLING OUR STORIES - DIVERSITY, EQUITY, and INCLUSION in the Garibaldi Room, Whistler Conference Center on November 30th at 3:00 pm.

SCREENING INFORMATION: 

Thursday, November 30, 2023 at 5:30 pm at Village 8 in Theatre 5 
(with select cast & crew in attendance)
4295 Blackcomb Way, Whistler, BC V8E 0X2

Friday, December 1, 2023 at 12:30 pm at Village 8 in Theatre 5 
(with select cast & crew in attendance)
4295 Blackcomb Way, Whistler, BC V8E 0X2

The film will also screen virtually starting on Monday, December 4

Ask any aspiring screenwriter or up and coming creative what particular festival they’d love to attend or be featured at, or win a contest they host, and in their list, they’ll mention the Austin Film Festival and with good reason. After all, the AFF is one of the biggest festivals around, and their screenwriting competition is heralded often by writers. For they offer amazing notes and give writers a real chance to launch their careers if they place in the competition. Not to mention, it’s a well-known fact that they celebrate storytelling and want powerful stories for their screening lineup, so having one’s visual story accepted into the AFF, is quite the accomplishment to say the least.
​
If anything, it really is a destination festival for creative minds and well, in the weeks following the festival, one that we here at NTG were honored to cover, people have asked this reporter, if it is indeed as epic as advertised. And well… what better place to answer that question than through a full-on recap of the festival itself, to provide you all with a resounding yes. Because this simply was, an incredible experience through and through, and one of the most creatively fulfilling ones I’ve ever taken part in. Partly because… this festival is as epic as they come. After all, it’s a full week of film premieres and panels, from every genre one can imagine, and that alone is indeed worth the price of admission.   

But the wonder of this festival goes so much deeper than Ubering about the city and moving from downtown theater to downtown theater to enjoy some amazing movies. This is also a festival, where you get a lot of face time with creative individuals. Since they too are out and about, and eager to take in this showing or that and that brings about all kinds of delightful conversations with people that love the visual medium, that are eager to hear your feedback about their creation and that… is quite amazing. Because it just allows for one to immerse themselves in creativity, and while I was able to get a little more in depth in my conversations through interviews, the fact that writers and directors, and actors were so accessible, period, was just amazing and inspiring really. 

Because those kinds of conversations really do light a spark in anyone that’s eager to break into the industry and it only excites an audience further and really… that’s the number one thing I took away from this festival. In that, it just exudes creative energy, and that creates an incredible and inviting vibe for anyone in attendance. The kind that is infectious, and really perhaps the best way to describe that vibe… is that the Austin Film Festival is akin to lining up for a movie that you’ve been waiting to see for ages. But that anticipation and that excitement lasts over the course the time you’re there, and every single person you meet has it in their veins as well. Which really does make this a true celebration of storytelling, one that is backed up… by some amazing movies.

For I watched a good double digits worth of films for this festival, some in person, some in advance because of the nature of entertainment journalism, but regardless of where I watched it, what I was privy to, was incredible. For every single film, short or series I enjoyed, was made with incredible passion, and that translated into honest and raw stories, and amazing comedies and dramas that were moving and powerful. Giving rise to a festival that truly features some of the best up and comers out there and movies that bring the best out of stars and veterans we know and love and well, in the end… this is simply an amazing festival. One that really has tapped into something special for cinephiles, and television fans and fans of popular culture, and it is one that I now highly recommend and cannot wait to attend again, in 2024.