SeriesFest: Season 10 Announces Official Selections for International Independent Pilot Competition4/3/2024 Written by John Edward Betancourt Still from ‘Brewability’ Courtesy of SeriesFest. 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.
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Written by John Edward Betancourt  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:
"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!” 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.’ SERIESFEST: SEASON 10 SCHEDULE |
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