​One week ago, Loveland Colorado was home to Wicked West Comic Expo, a comic convention unlike any other. With major corporations taking over comic conventions around the country, it’s getting harder and harder to reclaim the magic of the more intimate cons most of us grew up going to. While larger cons have their place, smaller cons also have their own charm. There’s something much more relaxing about going to a smaller, more local, convention. It brings back all the nostalgia of when most of us first started to attend conventions.
 
Wicked West Comic Expo brings something to the table that larger conventions don’t have; locality. It brings in tons of local and regional artists and vendors instead of major corporations, it allows for people to actually talk to one another, to share in interests, to have more conversations than a larger venue. Comic Cons around the country are more worried about the bottom lines than anything else. Wicked West Comic Expo was like a geeky farmer’s market, with local artists who were more than happy to have a conversation about their products than anything.

A smaller but more mighty con, Wicked West Comic Expo was the perfect place to spend a weekend making new friends and catching up with old ones. This was the type of convention that brought me right back to my early days of going to cons. It made me want to sit on the floor, huddled with friends, sharing food, and laughing about being able to nerd out openly. All while geeking out over the various things we all bought. This con is what all cons should be like, the gold standard if you will. Between the caring staff that is/was passionate about what they were doing and the kind of vendors who were happy to talk about their products and connect with people, the whole convention was a different vibe.

Much like her larger counterparts, Wicked West Comic Expo also offered a section of nerdy back drops for people to take pictures at. Whether they were cosplaying or not, these photo booths were a wonderful addition and wonderful experience since the people running them were more interested in helping people get the perfect picture instead of hurrying people along. It was the best convention to hit Colorado in a long time, and it had the perfect balance of things to do, see, buy, and of course… there was food! Wicked West Comic Expo should be here to stay for a very long time. It was put on by people who care about the con experience rather than collecting profits. The guests were just as amazing, featuring some of the amazing talents that made the comic world as spectacular as it is today, and inspired the vast media that currently exists.

This home-grown convention reminds us of what got many of us into our nerdy worlds, and hopefully it’s here to stay for good. With another amazing year down, we can only hope that Wicked West Comic Expo comes back next year, bringing us with it.

It wasn’t that long ago, that we sat down to discuss how wonderful it is when a big event we cannot wait to attend, releases its schedule. Simply because it is an important time for fans. Since this is when a weekend (or longer) can be planned to a tee and this is when the attendee takes ownership of the event, and it is also a fun and exciting time. In part, for those same reasons. Because who doesn’t like taking ownership of the event they’re attending? But also, because it’s just fun to put together the schedule and for attendees of Season 9 of SeriesFest… that wondrous day has come.

For earlier, SeriesFest unveiled its Season 9 Programming lineup, and it is… epic. After all, NBC is swinging by to do a special screening of the stellar comedy series, Grand Crew. Not to mention, Paul Giamatti will be around to do a live taping of Chinwag, and we even get to see the upcoming Amazon Freevee series, Primos, early… amongst other wonders. The kind that you can pour over… right now. For SeriesFest was kind enough to send over the programing schedule for this year’s event, and without further ado… here it is! All so you can properly prepare for another incredible celebration of television.

‘SeriesFest, the award-winning international festival and non-profit organization dedicated to championing emerging and underserved voices in episodic storytelling, announced today the full lineup for SeriesFest: Season 9. Taking place May 5 - 10 in Denver, Colorado, the annual six-day festival includes a full slate of in-competition screenings, panels, workshops, as well as never-before-seen sneak peeks and television premieres.
 
Season 9 will include a robust schedule of network premieres and screenings. Kicking off the festivities is the previously announced May 5th world premiere screening of CNN’s “The 2010’s” followed by a Q&A with the Emmy® Award-winning executive producer Mark Herzog. Joining the network screening lineup this year are the U.S. premiere of “Mulligan” (Netflix) with creators Robert Carlock and Sam Means; the world premiere of “Primo” (Amazon Freevee) with creator, writer, and executive producer​​ Shea Serrano and series stars Ignacio Diaz-Silverio and Christina Vidal; a special season two screening of “Grand Crew” (NBC/Peacock) with creator, executive producer and showrunner Phil Augusta Jackson; “A Small Light” (Nat Geo,  Disney+, Hulu) with writers, showrunners and executive producers Tony Phelan and Joan Rater; a special screening of the season two pilot of “Everyone is Doing Great” with SeriesFest’s alums, creators and stars, James Lafferty and Stephen Colletti; and “RuPaul’s Drag Race” (MTV)/”RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars” (Paramount+) with a Q&A with executive producers Randy Barbato, Fenton Bailey and Tom Campbell who will receive a SeriesFest’s “Impact in Television Award” recognizing trailblazers who have made creative contributions for outstanding artistic significance in television. Plus, as previously announced, the festival’s closing night on May 10 at Red Rocks Amphitheatre will feature a special screening of “Animal Control” (FOX) with star Joel McHale. In addition to the network premieres, there are a handful of original pilots making their world premiere at SeriesFest. These titles include: “Hit Man: Secrets of Lies” (Writer/Director, Elias Plaginos, Producer, Tara Westwood, Star Richard Kind); “Full Bleed” (Director, Patrick Daughters, Anonymous Content, Adobe); and “Grown” (Director/Actor, SeriesFest alum, Jocko Sims, Stars Josiah Gabriel, Giovanni Cristoff and Angela Mejia-Loggia). 
 
In partnership with Liberty Global, SeriesFest continues to celebrate storytellers from all over the globe with an International Spotlight. Featuring eight original works making their US or world debut, several of the titles’ stars and showrunners will be in attendance including “Elle’s Kitchen” (France) showrunner Lucie Moreau and star Annabelle Lengronne (who is anticipated at Cannes) and Grace Dove from “Bones of Crows” (Canada).  Additional projects and countries represented include “Traitor” (Israel), “The Aerobics Project” (France), “Dark Angel” (Singapore),“The Architect” (Norway), “Detective No. 24” (Sweden), and “Snow”(Germany).  
 
Adding to the dynamic “show and tell” that is SeriesFest, there will be many eye-opening discussions taking place this year with industry leaders who will share their perspectives and experiences covering important topics that influence the evolving landscape. 
​
Season 9 panels include:

• “‘Make ‘Em Laugh!’ A Spotlight on Comedy Showrunners” sponsored by Liquid Death, with Gloria Calderón Kellett (“With Love,” Prime Video), Meredith Scardino (“Girls5eva,” Netflix), Shea Serrano (“Primo,” Amazon Freevee), Phil Augusta Jackson (“Grand Crew”, NBC/Peacock), and Sam Means (“Mulligan,” Netflix)
• “Actors with Disabilities Making Their Mark in Hollywood: What More Needs to be Done” presented in partnership with Anna & John J. Sie Foundation and Global Down Syndrome Foundation with support from SAG-AFTRA, with Sue Ann Pien (Actor, “As We See It”), Lauren “LoLo” Spencer (Actor, “Sex Lives of College Girls”) Madison Tevlin (Actor, Champions) and Amber Horn (Casting Director, Aufiero/Horn Casting).  
• “Spotlight on International Co-Productions” with Sergio Pizzolante (President Commercial & Distribution, Secuoya Studios), Doug Schwalbe (Founder, The Co-Production Company), Richard Pommérat (VP of Development, N9ne Studio), and Roy Ashton (Partner, Gersh) 
• “The Art of Adaptation: Beyond the Book” with Diana Williams (Co-Founder, Kinetic Energy Entertainment) and Todd Lichten (Head of Entertainment Partnerships, Roblox), Ashley Michel Hoban (Showrunner, UCP), Aron Levitz (President, Wattpad WEBTOON Studios), and Graham McTavish (Actor, “Outlander,” “The Witcher” and “House of the Dragon”).
• “State of the Industry” with Talitha Watkins, President (ColorCreative), Ben Silverman (Co-CEO, Propagate), Mark Linsey (President, Scripted, BBC Studios), and Duncan Crabtree-Ireland (National Executive Director and Chief Negotiator, SAG-AFTRA).
• “The State of Comedy: A Conversation with Universal Television’s Development Executives” with Universal Television’s Jim Donnelly (Executive Vice President, Comedy Development), Beth Miyares (Senior Vice President, Comedy Development), and Megan Macmillan (Senior Vice President, Comedy Development).
• “Turning Podcasts into Television’s Next Big Hit with Orbit Media” Academy Award winner, Fisher Stevens (Co-Founder, Orbit Media), producer and TV executive, Marci Wiseman (Co-Founder, Orbit Media), Award winning journalist, Creator of #1 podcast, Empire on Blood, Steve Fishman (Co-Founder, Orbit Media), lawyer and Award winning journalist, Dax-Devon Ross (Co-Founder, Orbit Media), and producer/SeriesFest award winner Emil Pinnock (Co-Founder, GIANT Podcast).
• “Navigating the Independent Content Landscape” with Talitha Watkins (President, ColorCreative), Damaine Radcliff (Director/EP, “Manyouscript”), and Affion Crockett (Creator/EP, “Manyouscript”) 
• “Innovation in Brand Storytelling” with Tara Goutermout (Director of Brand Strategy, WeTransfer), Isaac Droke (Senior Manager, Social Media, Brooks Running)

 
SeriesFest also invites festival goers to one-of-a-kind events during Season 9 including a live podcast recording of Paul Giamatti’s ‘Chinwag’ with Stephen Asma; the Storytellers Initiative Live Read in partnership with Janelle Monáe's Wondaland Pictures with this year’s winner of SeriesFest’s Storytellers Script Writing Competition, "Soul City" written by Lori Webster Foré and directed by Denzel Whitaker (“Black Panther,” “The Purge”); and as previously announced, the closing night event, “A Night of Comedy” at Red Rocks Amphitheatre, supported by United Airlines, with Chelsea Handler headlining in her debut at the iconic venue alongside guests Jay Pharoah, Adam Ray and Joel McHale. 
 
Lastly, SeriesFest’s signature “Innovation Talks” series returns for Season 9, as previously announced. In partnership with Liberty Global, these candid conversations with top level executives including Kathryn Busby (President, Original Programming, STARZ);  Wade Davis (Chief Executive Officer, TelevisaUnivision) speaking with Mike Fries (CEO, Liberty Global); and Adam Lewinson (Chief Content Officer, Tubi).  Aligning with this season’s theme, “What’s Your Perspective?,” each thought leader will share their point of view on the rapidly evolving television landscape. 
 
"We're excited to celebrate such incredible content and bring together industry luminaries from around the world to inspire audiences and engage in conversations about the ever-changing television landscape," adds Randi Kleiner, Co-Founder and CEO. 
 
SERIESFEST: SEASON 9 SCHEDULE 
*Subject to change*
 
FRIDAY, MAY 5

“THE 2010’s” (CNN)  - OPENING NIGHT NETWORK SCREENING AND PANEL - *WORLD PREMIERE*
Presented in partnership with Bank of America and United Airlines 
In Attendance: Mark Herzog (Executive Producer) 
Moderator: Lisa France (Entertainment Reporter, CNN) 
From Emmy® Award-winning executive producers Tom Hanks, Gary Goetzman, and Mark Herzog comes a new installment of the iconic Decades series. CNN audiences are invited to look back at The 2010s, a turbulent era marked by political and social upheaval, culminating in the single most dramatic year of the 21st century: 2020. It was a decade in which social media transformed society and streaming upended entertainment, resulting in genre-defying music and ushering in the era of “peak TV”.
 
“HIT MAN: SECRETS OF LIES” - SPECIAL SCREENING AND PANEL - *WORLD PREMIERE*
In Attendance: Elias Plagianos (Writer and Director) Tara Westwood (Producer), and star Richard Kind
Moderator: Allegra Frank (Deputy Entertainment Editor, The Daily Beast)
A lonely hitman from New York City travels to small towns around the country trying to find meaning in his inconsequential life as he fulfills his contracts and eliminates his targets.
 
SATURDAY, MAY 6 
 
“GRAND CREW” SEASON TWO (NBC/PEACOCK) - NETWORK SCREENING AND PANEL
In Attendance: Phil Augusta Jackson (Creator, Executive Producer, Showrunner)
Moderator: Saloni Gajjar (TV writer, The A.V. Club)
From Phil Augusta Jackson (writer, producer and director, “Brooklyn Nine-Nine”) and Dan Goor (creator, “Brooklyn Nine-Nine”) comes the second season of the hangout comedy about friendship and wine.
 
“MULLIGAN” (NETFLIX) - NETWORK SCREENING AND PANEL  - *U.S. PREMIERE*
Presented in Partnership by Native Roots and Liquid Death
In Attendance: Robert Carlock (Producer) and Sam Means (Showrunner) 
Moderator: Steve Greene (TV Writer, IndieWire) 
After Earth is destroyed by an alien attack, what's left of humanity has a chance to start society over from scratch.
 
“MAKE ‘EM LAUGH!” A SPOTLIGHT ON COMEDY SHOWRUNNERS - PANEL 
Supported by Liquid Death
In Attendance: Gloria Calderón Kellett (“With Love,” Prime Video), Meredith Scardino (“Girls5eva,” Netflix), Shea Serrano (“Primo,” Amazon Freevee), Phil Augusta Jackson (“Grand Crew,” NBC/Peacock), and Sam Means (“Mulligan,” Netflix). 
Moderator: Gerrad Hall (Executive Editor, Entertainment Weekly) 
Comedy is subjective, right? But you can't fake funny. So how do you get the coveted laugh from an audience while also crafting a narrative series arc with substantial characters? Join us for a conversation with a diverse group of comedic talents discussing all aspects of their craft spanning across writing, producing and creating "funny" television. 
 
PAUL GIAMATTI'S “CHINWAG” WITH STEPHEN ASMA -  SPECIAL LIVE PODCAST RECORDING 
In Attendance: Paul Giamatti and Stephen Asma
Actor Paul Giamatti and Professor Stephen Asma host a live taping of CHINWAG, their new podcast series of freewheeling conversations that may — or may not — dive really really really deep into the edge of the known… topics like aliens, science fiction, imagination… 
 
“BONES OF CROWS” (CANADA) - INTL SPOTLIGHT SPECIAL SCREENING AND PANEL - *U.S. PREMIERE* 
Presented in partnership with Consulate General of Canada in Denver
In Attendance: Marie Clements (Director, Writer, Producer, Executive Producer), Trish Dolman (Executive Producer), Christine Haebler (Executive Producer), and stars Grace Dove, Carla-Rae 
Moderator: TBA 
Forced into residential school, Aline Spears and her siblings are plunged into a fight for survival that shapes the Spears family for generations.
 
“ELLE’S KITCHEN” (FRANCE) - INTL SPOTLIGHT SPECIAL SCREENING AND PANEL - *U.S. PREMIERE* 
Presented in partnership with UniFrance
In Attendance: Annabelle Lengronne (Actress) and Lucie Moreau (Showrunner)
Moderator: Jordan Pinto (North American Editor, C21 Media)
Adriana is an ambitious chef whose dream is to obtain a Michelin star for her restaurant. But she ends up with dangerous unofficial partners...
 
“TRAITOR” (ISRAEL) - INTL SPOTLIGHT SPECIAL SCREENING - *WORLD PREMIERE* 
After a flight from Tel Aviv to India vanishes in mid-air, with no signs of an explosion, crash or hijacking, the entire world is left mesmerized. 
 
SUNDAY, MAY 7 

INNOVATION TALK SERIES WITH ADAM LEWINSON (Chief Content Officer, Tubi) - SPECIAL EVENT  
Presented in partnership with Liberty Global  
Moderator: Caitlin Huston (Business Editor, The Hollywood Reporter) 
Join SeriesFest for a one-on-one conversation that shines the spotlight on the incredible career of Emmy Award winning producer and Tubi's Chief Content Officer, Adam Lewinson. This unique conversation will  give audiences an inside look at the evolving and exciting  AVOD model and what's driving audiences to Tubi in particular. 
 
ACTORS WITH DISABILITIES MAKING THEIR MARK IN HOLLYWOOD: ​​WHAT MORE NEEDS TO BE DONE  - PANEL
Presented in partnership with Anna & John J. Sie Foundation and Global Down Syndrome Foundation with support from SAG-AFTRA
In Attendance: Sue Ann Pien (Actor, As We See It) Lauren “LoLo” Spencer (Actor, Sex Lives of College Girls), Madison Tevlin (Actor, Champions)  and Amber Horn (Casting Director, Aufiero/Horn Casting). 
Moderator: Lauren Applebaum (Senior Vice President, Communications and Entertainment & News Media, of RespectAbility)
With all the discussion about diversity and inclusion in entertainment, what action is being taken to ensure opportunities for America’s largest minority, entertainment professionals with disabilities? The lack of representation both on screen and behind the camera means that millions of people are unable to see themselves in the media today. The panel will shine a light on the evolving landscape in Hollywood, as vanguards work tirelessly behind the scenes to make opportunities more inclusive and bring more diverse stories to the front of the camera.
 
SPOTLIGHT ON INTERNATIONAL CO-PRODUCTIONS - PANEL 
In Attendance: Melissa Myers (Partner & President, Kinetic Content), Sergio Pizzolante (President Commercial & Distribution, Secuoya Studios), Doug Schwalbe (Founder, The Co-Production Company), and Richard Pommérat (VP of Development, N9ne Studio).  
Moderator: Roy Ashton (Partner, Gersh) 
There isn’t a typical co-production model when it comes to international drama. SeriesFest invites you to join U.S. and international producers for a conversation about the current strategies and hurdles faced by international co-productions — from the creative to the financial and everything in between. 
 
“EVERYONE IS DOING GREAT” SEASON TWO - SPECIAL SCREENING AND PANEL
In Attendance: James Lafferty (Co-Creator / Executive Producer / Star), Stephen Colletti (Co-Creator / Executive Producer / Star), Alexandra Park (Executive Producer / Writer / Star), Cariba Heine (Star),  Ngoc Nguyen (Executive Producer), Michelle Lang (Executive Producer), and Johnny Derango (Executive Producer).
Moderator: Jeff Conway (Senior Contributor, Forbes) 
Former co-stars and lovers Jeremy (James Lafferty), Andrea (Alexandra Park), Seth (Stephen Colletti) and Izzy (Cariba Heine) are pulled back together as they grapple with the fallout of love, loss and fame. 
 
“FULL BLEED” (ADOBE/ANONYMOUS CONTENT) - SPECIAL SCREENING AND PANEL - *WORLD PREMIERE* 
In Attendance: Zac Ryder (Executive Creative Director for The Lab at Anonymous Content) and Dan Cowles (Executive Creative Director for Adobe), and Patrick Daughters (Director) 
Moderator: TBA 
A documentary series taking viewers inside the most breakthrough creative projects of our time, going beyond the expected creator profile to explore what it takes to push boundaries, and examine how obstacles can become the conduit for groundbreaking work.
 
COLLEGE TELEVISION AWARD WINNERS SHOWCASE - SPECIAL SCREENING & PANEL
Presented in partnership with Television Academy Foundation
SeriesFest is thrilled to partner with the Television Academy Foundation to showcase the 2023 College Television Award winners, as voted on by members of the Television Academy. This showcase will feature a Q&A with award winning projects from the renowned competition that recognizes student content creators nationwide.
 
“THE ARCHITECT” (NORWAY) - INTL SPOTLIGHT SPECIAL SCREENING - *NORTH AMERICAN PREMIERE*
A darkly satirical story set in a near future Oslo, where architect Julie has an idea to turn underground car parks into much needed housing.
 
“THE AEROBICS PROJECT” (FRANCE) -  INTL SPOTLIGHT SPECIAL SCREENING AND PANEL - *COLORADO PREMIERE*
Presented in partnership with UniFrance
An offbeat pop show about female empowerment… and spies!
 
MONDAY, MAY 8 

INNOVATION TALK SERIES WITH WADE DAVIS (CEO, TelevisaUnivision) AND MIKE FRIES (CEO, Liberty Global)  - SPECIAL EVENT  
Presented in partnership with Liberty Global
Join SeriesFest for a special conversation with Wade Davis, Chief Executive Officer of TelevisaUnivision, and Mike Fries, CEO and Vice Chairman of Liberty Global. This special conversation will highlight Davis’ incredible path in media and outlook for TelevisaUnivision as well as the evolving international television marketplace and the impact on how audiences access content across platforms.
 
“PRIMO” (Amazon Freevee) - NETWORK SCREENING AND PANEL - *WORLD PREMIERE* 
In Attendance: Shea Serrano (Creator, Writer, Executive Producer​​) and stars Ignacio Diaz-Silverio and Christina Vidal
Moderator: Dino Ray-Ramos (Founder, DIASPORA)
The coming-of-age comedy follows 16-year-old Rafa Gonzales, being raised by his clever mother, Drea, and his five overbearing uncles in San Antonio.
 
“RUPAUL’S DRAG RACE” (MTV)/”RUPAUL’S DRAG RACE ALL STARS” (PARAMOUNT+) - NETWORK SCREENING AND PANEL
In Attendance: Randy Barbato, Fenton Bailey, Tom Campbell (Executive Producers)
Moderator: Dino Ray-Ramos (Founder, DIASPORA)
Join SeriesFest for a special screening and panel conversation with RuPaul’s Drag Race EP’s Randy Barbato, Fenton Bailey and Tom Campbell. Barbato, Bailey and Campbell will receive the SeriesFest’s ‘Impact in Television Award,’ recognizing trailblazers who have made creative contributions for outstanding artistic significance in television. 
 
INNOVATION IN BRAND STORYTELLING - PANEL 
In Attendance: Tara Goutermout (Director of Brand Strategy, WeTransfer), Isaac Droke (Senior Manager, Social Media, Brooks Running)
Moderator: Brian Newman (CEO, Sub-Genre)
Ever-evolving technology hasn't just impacted storytelling in tv and film, but it has made a dramatic effect on marketing and the ways in which brands engage with consumers. Join us for a conversation with global brand leaders to discuss their strategies for innovative storytelling and best practices for appealing to new audiences whilst highlighting their organizations.
 
THE ART OF ADAPTATION: BEYOND THE BOOK - PANEL 
In Attendance:  Diana Williams (Co-Founder, Kinetic Energy Entertainment), Todd Lichten (Head of Entertainment Partnerships, Roblox), Ashley Michel Hoban (Showrunner, UCP), Aron Levitz (President, Wattpad WEBTOON Studios), and Graham McTavish (Actor, “Outlander,” “The Witcher” and “House of the Dragon”)
Moderator: Emily Vogel (Director of Programming, The Wrap)
Audiences have seen their favorite novels adapted for the small screen for years, but there's a growing trend to adapt stories outside of the bookstore. Podcasts, video games and self-published stories are being adapted into series now like never before. Join us for a conversation discussing the popularity of adapted new media and the freedoms and limitations in the creative process as a result.
 
STATE OF THE INDUSTRY - PANEL 
In Attendance: Talitha Watkins (President, ColorCreative), Ben Silverman (Co-CEO, Propagate), Mark Linsey (President, Scripted, BBC Studios), and Duncan Crabtree-Ireland (National Executive Director and Chief Negotiator, SAG-AFTRA)
Moderator: TBA
Is television's golden era coming to an end? 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.
 
STORYTELLER’S LIVE READ - SPECIAL EVENT 
Presented in partnership with Wondaland Pictures 
Supported by SAG-AFTRA
Written by Lori Webster Fore
Directed by Denzel Whitaker
In Attendance: Jocko Sims and more TBA
For this year’s Storyteller’s Initiative, SeriesFest has partnered with  Janelle Monáe and Wondaland Pictures to discover episodic content featuring radical and rebellious stories.  This cycle’s winning script is “Soul City”, written by Lori Webster Fore, an epic hour long drama that starts when a hurricane slams into a small town, the mysterious disappearances of a little girl and escaped convict unearth a hidden Black utopia, long thought to be lost. Actor, director, producer, Jocko Sims (“New Amsterdam”) will star as Detective Bill Booker. 
 
“GROWN” - SPECIAL ‘HIGH SCHOOL DAY’ SCREENING AND PANEL 
In Attendance: Jocko Sims (Writer, Director, Producer), Christopher Santiago (Producer) Chaz Hazlittand (producer), stars Josiah Gabriel, Giovanni Cristoff, Angela Mejia-Loggia; audience to include students from local Denver high schools 
Moderator: Neil Truglio (SeriesFest, Director of Education)
Having recently lost his father, 14 year old Rogelio executes a plan to sneak into a strip club w/ his friends as the night takes an unexpected turn.
 
“DARK ANGEL” (INTL SPOTLIGHT/SINGAPORE) - SPECIAL SCREENING - *US PREMIERE* 
After her beautiful family was destroyed overnight, a housewife becomes an unscrupulous lawyer to seek vengeance on the mastermind.
 
TUESDAY, MAY 9 
 
INNOVATION TALK SERIES WITH KATHRYN BUSBY (President, Original Programming, STARZ) - SPECIAL EVENT  
Presented in partnership with Liberty Global
Moderator: Nekesa Moody (Editorial Director, The Hollywood Reporter)
SeriesFest is excited to present a unique conversation with Kathryn Busby, President of Original Programming for STARZ.  This signature panel will highlight Busby's expansive accomplishments in the television industry and how she continues to champion innovative storytelling that is  committed to narratives by, about and for women and underrepresented audiences.
 
“A SMALL LIGHT” (NAT GEO,  DISNEY+, HULU) - NETWORK SCREENING AND PANEL 
In Attendance: Tony Phelan (Writer/Showrunner/Executive Producer), Joan Rater (Writer/Showrunner/Executive Producer)
Moderator: TBA
Based on an inspiring true story, Miep Gies was young, carefree and opinionated — at a time when opinions got you killed ― when Otto Frank asked her to help hide his family from the Nazis during WWII. Told with a modern sensibility, Nat Geo's “A Small Light” shakes the cobwebs off history and makes Miep’s story feel relevant, forcing audiences to ask themselves what they would have done in Miep’s shoes; and in modern times, asking if they would have the courage to stand up to hatred. Some stood by, Miep stood up. 
 
THE STATE OF COMEDY: A CONVERSATION WITH UNIVERSAL TELEVISION’S DEVELOPMENT EXECUTIVES - PANEL 
In Attendance: Universal Television’s Jim Donnelly (Executive Vice President, Comedy Development), Beth Miyares (Senior Vice President, Comedy Development), and Megan Macmillan (Senior Vice President, Comedy Development)
Moderator: TBA
Join the studio development team behind some of the industry’s most successful and highly-anticipated television comedies—"Hacks,” “Never Have I Ever,” “Girls5eva,” “Grand Crew,” “Schmigadoon!,” “Bupkis,” “Primo,” “Mulligan” and more—as they discuss the state of the industry and deep dive into their development process.
 
TURNING PODCAST INTO TELEVISION’S NEXT BIG HIT with ORBIT MEDIA - PANEL
Media Partner Colorado Public Radio
In Attendance: Academy Award winner, Fisher Stevens (Co-Founder, Orbit Media), producer and TV executive, Marci Wiseman (Co-Founder, Orbit Media), Award winning journalist, Creator of #1 podcast, Empire on Blood, Steve Fishman (Co-Founder, Orbit Media), lawyer and Award winning journalist, Dax-Devon Ross (Co-Founder, Orbit Media), and producer/SeriesFest award winner Emil Pinnock (Co-Founder, GIANT Podcast). 
Moderator: TBA
Though books have a long track record of inspiring TV dramas, providing the storylines and characters for countless screen adaptations — the printed word faces stiff competition. The booming podcast industry is emerging as an ever-more-popular source of scripted TV narratives. Join SeriesFest for this exclusive conversation with top podcast creators and TV executives from Orbit Media, a new podcast company backed by Sony, as they discuss the process of creating great podcast concepts that translate to TV, the ins-and-outs of selecting which podcasts will become great TV, and why podcasts are the new preferred incubator for dramatic ideas.
 
“DETECTIVE NO.24” (SWEDEN) - INTL SPOTLIGHT SPECIAL SCREENING - *NORTH AMERICAN PREMIERE* 
A fresh, surprising detective duo.
 
“SNOW” (GERMANY) - INTL SPOTLIGHT SPECIAL SCREENING - *INTERNATIONAL PREMIERE* 
A mystery thriller series set in the age of the climate crisis. To save her daughter, a mother must leave her rational world views behind.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 10 
 
NAVIGATING THE INDEPENDENT CONTENT LANDSCAPE - PANEL
In Attendance: Talitha Watkins (President, ColorCreative), Damaine Radcliff (Director/EP, “Manyouscript”), Affion Crockett (Creator/EP, “Manyouscript”) 
Moderator: Malcolm Venable (Senior Staff Writer, Shondaland)
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 intimate chat with Color Creative President, Talitha Watkins, and creative partners, Affion Crockett and Damaine Radcliff, to share tips and tricks of packaging, producing and selling your indie pilot.
 
SEASON 9 INDEPENDENT COMPETITION AWARDS CEREMONY - SPECIAL EVENT 
Supported by Hyde Park Jewelers
 
SeriesFest announces the winners of this year’s competition in all categories!
 
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.
 
“ANIMAL CONTROL” (FOX) - CLOSING NIGHT SPECIAL SCREENING AT RED ROCKS AMPHITHEATRE!
In Attendance: Joel McHale
Animal Control follows a group of local Animal Control workers whose lives are complicated by the fact that animals are simple, but humans are not. 
 
A NIGHT OF COMEDY WITH CHELSEA HANDLER - CLOSING NIGHT SPECIAL EVENT AT RED ROCKS AMPHITHEATRE!
Supported by United Airlines
SeriesFest presents a Night of Comedy with headliner Chelsea Handler, and guests Jay Pharoah & Adam Ray. SeriesFest will host an unconventional and hilarious evening alongside a special comedy television presentation of FOX’s “Animal Control.” 
 
ABOUT SERIESFEST
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. Every 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 a musical performance and network screening at the world-renowned Red Rocks Amphitheatre, in-competition independent pilot screenings, panels, workshops, live reads, parties, and network television premieres.

Follow @seriesfest on Twitter
​
SeriesFest: Season 9 is presented with generous support from the following sponsors: Once Upon A Time Productions, Liberty Global, Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck, Denver Film, Caz Matthews, Xfinity, and United Airlines.
 
Please sign up to our newsletter on www.seriesfest.com or follow us on social media to receive the most up-to-date information!’

Truly, the best part of inching toward a convention, is bearing witness to the formation of the programming lineup. Because that builds serious excitement and reminds us that we will soon be in attendance at an event that fuels our soul. But more importantly, it helps us plan. For now, we know, what the lineup will look like and can begin to put our own schedule together and prepare to enjoy the event the way that we see fit and well, it just so happens that this wonderous process is getting underway for attendees of SeriesFest: Season 9.
​
For recently, SeriesFest unveiled its official selections for the International Independent Pilot Competition and what a stunning lineup it is going to be. One filled with stories that will captivate and ignite the imaginations of everyone in attendance and well, that truly does build excitement for another great year from this always amazing event. And to help you plan for the event ahead, SeriesFest was nice enough to provide us with the complete list of selections and more details on Season 9. So, without further ado, here are all of those details for you to pour over, as we all count down the days to another great season of programming from the finest celebration of pop-culture around.

‘SeriesFest, the award-winning international festival and non-profit organization dedicated to championing emerging and underserved voices in episodic storytelling, today announced the 55 titles from all over the world participating in the International Independent Pilot Competition at SeriesFest: Season 9. Several of these original pilots involve familiar faces including Henry Winkler, Richard Kind, Karen Allen, Peter Reigert, Abigail Breslin, Jocko Sims and social media influencer Steven He. 
 
Kicking off six full days of pilot competitions, screenings, and panels, opening night on Friday, May 5 marks the premiere of the CNN Original Series, “The 2010s,” the latest installment of the acclaimed Decades series from Emmy® Award-winning executive producers Tom Hanks, Gary Goetzman, and Mark Herzog supported by United Airlines and Bank of America. Closing out the festivities on Wednesday, May 10, SeriesFest will host a night of comedy at Red Rocks Amphitheatre supported by United Airlines and Xfinity with a special screening of FOX Entertainment’s workplace comedy “Animal Control” introduced by Actor, Comedian, and Host Joel McHale who, as well as Jay Pharoah and Adam Ray, will do original stand-up sets, along with the previously announced headliner, Chelsea Handler, who makes her debut at the iconic venue. 
 
This season, there are over seven countries represented in categories including “Independent Pilot: Drama,” “Independent Pilot: Comedy,” and “Independent Pilot: Unscripted” sponsored by Company 3; “Pilots In Progress” sponsored by Company 3; “Pitch-A-Thon;” “Late Night” supported by Native Roots; “Collegiate Creator Spotlight;” and “Digital Short Series.” 

“Year after year, the projects submitted to our Independent Pilot Competition continue to impress,” shares Claire Taylor, Director, Programming, SeriesFest. “Connecting with emerging creatives is a pillar of our mission. We are honored to see such incredible original work from creators around the world. They bring so many unique and brilliantly told stories to our audiences in Denver.”   
 
“Starting our full week of programming with the CNN retrospective and ending with what’s sure to be a hilarious night with some of comedy’s biggest names, we couldn’t ask for better book ends to exemplify how SeriesFest is at the forefront of the pop culture zeitgeist!” comments Randi Kleiner, CEO, SeriesFest.  
 
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,” Nigel Smith (Senior Movies News Editor, PEOPLE), Yasmine Pearl (Talent Agent, United Talent Agency), Adam Ray (comedian); “drama,” Ashley Holland (SVP Scripted Programming & Development, Onyx Collective), Anastasia Puglisi (SVP / Supervising Producer, Wolf Entertainment), Mark Linsey (President, Scripted, BBC Studios), Angie Han (TV Critic, The Hollywood Reporter); “unscripted,” Tony Tackaberry (CEO, Station 6 Productions),  FredAnthony Smith (VP, Non-Scripted, SMAC Productions), Anne Chaisson (Executive Director, Hamptons International Film Festival).
 
Late Night: Erich Smith (Sr. Talent Agent, TCA MGMT), Arthur Meyer (Writer/Comedian), Valerie Steinberg (Producer, Valerie Steinberg Productions)
 
Digital Shorts: Jason Hiro Kim (VP, Good Karma Productions), Bruce Robertson (Chief Storyteller, 11:11 Media), Matt Bolish (Managing Director, New York Film Festival, Film at Lincoln Center), Julie DeJoie (President, Shoe Money Productions)
 
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 9 is presented with generous support from the following sponsors: Once Upon A Time Productions, Liberty Global, Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck, Denver Film, Caz Matthews, and United Airlines.
 
ABOUT SERIESFEST
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. Every 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 a musical performance and network screening at the world-renowned Red Rocks Amphitheatre, in-competition independent pilot screenings, panels, workshops, live reads, parties, and network television premieres.
Follow @seriesfest on Twitter
 
Please sign up to our newsletter on www.seriesfest.com or follow us on social media to receive the most up-to-date information!’

INDEPENDENT PILOT COMPETITION (DRAMA)
Sponsored by Company 3

DOSE
COLORADO PREMIERE
Director: Peter P Clark
Executive Producer: Peter P Clark
Writer: Peter P Clark
Producers: Nick Krasnic, Katerina Kilbina
Cast: Dominic Bogart, Christine Jones, Rachel Prather, Victor Almanzar
USA, 60m
​
Faced with the trauma of losing his wife, successful fashion maven Jeremy finds himself on the edge of a total psychotic break. He risks his sanity with a dangerous dose of psilocybin in an experimental
psychedelic-assisted therapy session, only to learn that his reality is far from what it seems.

For Years to Come
COLORADO PREMIERE
Director: Micah Stuart
Executive Producers: Richard Riehle, Dennis Zanatta. Associate Producers: Faith Fuerst, Jeffrey Weber.
Writer: James Patrick Nelson
Producers: Chelsea Fenton, Jay DeYonker, James Patrick Nelson
Cast: Richard Riehle, James Patrick Nelson, Jason W. Wong, Kristy Munden, Samia Mounts, Jay DeYonker, Suzanne Ford
USA, 27m

A gay man falls in love with his dead mother's hospice nurse, while struggling to reconnect with his
elderly father, who's secretly a porn director.

Halfsies
COLORADO PREMIERE
Director: Brad Klipfel
Executive Producers: Des Moran, Brad Klipfel
Writer: Des Moran
Producers: Elli Legerski, Lorena Lourenço
Cast: Des Moran, Wade Allain-Marcus, Devere Rogers, Jerah Milligan, Galen J. Williams, Akilah A. Walker,Nick Apostolina, Max Raines, Heather Ann Gottleib, Cameron Deane Stewart, Denzel Deranamie
USA, 23m

Five estranged half-brothers come together after their sibling dies suddenly, but his mysterious death
leaves one of them grappling with reality.

Hit Man: Secrets of Lies
WORLD PREMIERE
Director: Elias Plagianos
Executive Producers: Tara Westwood, Stacey Van Gorder, Jonathan Shafter, Kevin Applegate, Jeff Fried,
Craig Blair, Matthew Woolf
Writer: Elias Plagianos
Producers: Elias Plagianos
Cast: Richard Kind, William Sadler, Karen Allen, Peter Riegert
USA, 19m

A lonely hitman from New York City travels to small towns around the country trying to find meaning in his inconsequential life as he fulfills his contracts and eliminates his targets.

Humanized
COLORADO PREMIERE
Director: Colin Sevely-Ortiz
Executive Producers: Gabriel Guimaraes, Radley Docekal
Writer: Gabriel Guimaraes
Producers: Delmo & Marilene Guimaraes, Shawn & Maureen Higdon, Greg & Cindy Lai, Jonathan
Matheu, Alicia Farnam, Lisa Mykleby, Randy Cole, Cafo Boga
Cast: Malcolm Quinn Silver-Van Meter, Jessica Krueger, Key Taw, Will McMahan, Marshall Bonny, Kyle
Minshew
USA, 29m

Posing as a typical teenager, a humanoid robot must navigate the uncertainty of adolescence in order to conceal a haunting secret.

I Didn’t Mean To Go Mental
WORLD PREMIERE
Director: Layne Marie Williams
Executive Producers: Carly Glenn, Amy McIntyre
Writer: Carly Glenn
Producers: Ashton Swinford Aimy Tien Grace Hahn
Cast: Carly Glenn, Katie Maringer, Matthew LaChapelle, Phallon Pierce, Kyra Pierce, Antoine McKay,
Christopher Meister, Mickey O’Sullivan, Kroydell Galima, Isabel Ackerman, Will Daly, Jennifer Engstrom, Breon Arzell, Skye Shrum, Kimberly Michelle Vaughn, Jim McCance, Monette McLin, Mo Shipley, Ashton Swinford 
USA, 30m

When two women crash their cars into each other in a school parking lot, they are forced to spend time in a psych ward together.

Offline
WORLD PREMIERE
Director: Gabriel Dohrn
Producers: Andy Juett
Executive Producer: Rick Scarpello, Robert Eschino, Aaron Buche, Timothy Carlton-Mcqueen, Kenneth Anderson, Daniel 'Buddy' Thomas, Andra Dohrn, Brandon Dohrn, Gabriel Dohrn, Missy Dohrn, Ryan Dohrn, , Elly Michaels, Kelly Mower, Devin Sena, Brian Huff, Charity Huff
Writer: Gabriel Dohrn
Cast: Michael Madsen, Jay Chandrasekhar, Mathilde Ollivier, Erik Stolhanske, Paul Soter, Andy Juett,
Jonah Ray, Brenna Grace
USA, 42m

A dark comedy-adventure about life after the internet goes, OFFLINE.

Overstimulated
WORLD PREMIERE
Director: Taylor Karin
Executive Producer: Taylor Karin
Writer: Taylor Karin
Producers: Taylor Karin, Major Dorfman, Amanda D'Amico, Aarón Trujillo
Cast: Taylor Karin, Major Dorfman, Matt Walker, Thea Brooks, Chikézië Nwankwo, Chet Davino
USA, 28m

A neurodivergent woman moves to a new city, leaning on her maladaptive daydreaming to avoid what
brought her there.

Puncher’s Chance
COLORADO PREMIERE
Director: Garland Scott and Johnny Rey Diaz
Executive Producers: Garland Scott, Margarita Reyes, and Cody Stokes
Writer: Garland Scott
Producers: Garland Scott and Johnny Rey Diaz
Cast: Garland Scott, Frank Mosley, Jamal Henderson, Anthony D. Washington, Johnny Rey Diaz
USA, 40m

A struggling single father and former Boxer, reluctantly takes a fight on short notice. The previous fighter was shot while dealing. Seeing this as an opportunity to get back on his feet, he is blindsided by the motives of a trusted friend.

Rumors
WORLD PREMIERE
Directors: Luca Bizzarri, Tommaso Caperdoni
Executive Producers: Tommaso Caperdoni, Elisa Alvelli, Luca Bizzarri, Enrico Giustini, Denissa Sociu
Writers: Tommaso Caperdoni, Martina Bocconi, Francesca Proni, Stefano Cascini
Producers: Tommaso Caperdoni, Elisa Alvelli, Luca Bizzarri
Cast: Tommaso Bocconi, Valentina Bivona, Gaia Ria, Marco Benelli, Niccolò Massi, Alessandra Bedino,
Riccardo Valeriani, Roberto Andrioli
Italy, 56:34m

In Arezzo (Tuscany, Italy), three young adults investigate violent and mysterious attacks while coping with their own loneliness and parental issues.

The Empty Chair
COLORADO PREMIERE
Director: Andrew Shebay
Executive Producers: Robyn Lively, Jeff Rushing, Orestes Germanides, Maria Semander Crawford, JoAnna Semander Nicolaou, John Semander
Writer: John Semander
Producers: Andrew Shebay, John Semander
Cast: Robyn Lively, Chris Mulkey, Justin Hurtt-Dunkley, Todd Allen, Tommy G. Kendrick, Jordyn DiNatale, Abigail Haley, Gavin Warren, Olivia Tovar
USA, 22:31m

A mother learns the truth about her daughter’s murder when a serial killer is finally caught.

INDEPENDENT PILOT COMPETITION (COMEDY)
Sponsored by Company 3

Chanshi
COLORADO PREMIERE
Creator: Aleeza Chanowitz
Director: Mickey Triest, Aharon Geva
Executive Producers: Guy Levy, Mirit Toovi, Meny Aviram, Ayelet Imberman
Writer: Aleeza Chanowitz
Producer: Ayelet Imberman
Cast: Aleeza Chanowitz, Marnina Schon, Tomer Machloof, Henry Winkler, Caroline Aaron
Israel, 35m

Chanshi (24) flees Brooklyn for Israel in order to fulfill her forbidden fantasies with IDF soldiers, but past traumas threaten to ruin her big plans.

Groundbreaking
NORTH AMERICA PREMIERE
Director: Patrick William Smith
Executive Producer: Patrick William Smith
Writers: Patrick William Smith, Wendy Bird Womack (Co-writer)
Producers: Patrick William Smith, Wendy Bird Womack
Cast: Natalie Cutler, Steven He, Brian Villalobos, Clara Guziewicz, Theo Holt-Bailey, Jean Law, Bar Reddin,
Lena Tokuhiro, Mai Nakano, Haruka Saito
USA, 45m

A hapless team of archaeologists inadvertently unearths a Celtic secret that upends the beloved history of an uber-religious Irish hamlet.

Grown
COLORADO PREMIERE
Director: Jocko Sims
Executive Producer: Jocko Sims
Writers: Jocko Sims
Producers: Christopher Santiago, Chaz Hazlitt, Andrew Zolot
Cast: Josiah Gabriel, Tristan-Lee Edwards, Giovanni Cristoff, Angela Mejia-Loggia, Eliza Ramos, Kevin
Rodriguez, Nixon Cesar
USA, 18m

Having recently lost his father, 14 year old Rogelio executes a plan to sneak into a strip club w/ his friends as the night takes an unexpected turn.

Imposters
COLORADO PREMIERE
Director: Elizabeth Jaeleigh Davis
Executive Producers: Elizabeth Jaeleigh Davis, Daniel Jossman, Sandie Cheng
Writers: Sandie Cheng, Daniel Jossman
Producer: Sandie Cheng
Cast: Candace Maxwell, Robert Barnes Jr., Steven Allen, Barton Cowperthwaite, Manny Galan, Sandie
Cheng, Michael Bobenhausen, Max Riffel, Mike Blaney, Patrick Oliver Jones, Khalfani Louis
USA, 27m

A searing comedy that follows university students thrust into a national scandal when the President's son is mistakenly kidnapped by a fraternity.

Marvin?
COLORADO PREMIERE
Director: Anton Van der Linden
Executive Producer: George Anthony Gottl
Writer: Anton van der Linden
Producers: George Gottl, Anton van der Linden, Daan Geuke
Cast: Cameron Tharma, Rose van der Hucht, Sven Ironside
Netherlands, 21m

Two young friends in Amsterdam struggling to get ahead in life stumble onto a magical fridge that
literally makes their dreams come true.

Our Big Punjabi Family
WORLD PREMIERE
Creators; Lenna Manro, Agam Darshi
Director: Agam Darshi
Executive Producers: Kelly Balon, Anand Ramayya, Leena Manro, Agam Darshi, Doug Mankoff,
Andy Nathani, Mel D'Souza
Writers: Leena Manro, Agam Darshi
Producers: Kelly Balon, Anand Ramayya
Cast: Arshdeep Purba, Bushra Ansari, Arkinder Kandola, Balinder Johal, BK Singh
Canada, 22:30m

Hilarity ensues as patriarchal South Asian uncles clash with freedom-fighting aunties in this
heart-warming comedy about families forced to live together.

The Cannibals
COLORADO PREMIERE
Director: Kim Hopkins, Abigail Breslin
Executive Producers: Kim Hopkins, Abigail Breslin, Zack Hopkins, Alex Uceda, Zee Rebello, Michael Nelson
Writers: Abigail Breslin, Kim Hopkins
Producers: Kim Hopkins, Abigail Breslin, Zack Hopkins, Ryan Breslin, Charles Berg, Jeremy Gilbreath
Cast: Kim Hopkins, Abigail Breslin, Al Ortega, Bobby Burkich, Ryan Mithchell, Emmy James
USA, 17:58m

The Cannibals, a dark comedy, explores the dynamics of a close-knit normal family, with an eating
disorder, cannibalism. Loaded with laughter and fun.

The Manyouscript
WORLD PREMIERE
Director: Damaine Radcliff
Executive Producers: Damaine Radcliff, Affion Crockett
Writer: Affion Crockett
Producers: Lavera Wilson, Wolf Adler
Cast: Affion Crockett, Naim Lynn, Norm Nixon Jr, Lauren Wilkins, Anonymous Jones, Iris Little-Thomas,
Marvin Wright-Bey
USA, 30m

Three friends are on their own various paths to love while changing mid life status quo.

Who’s Annie?
COLORADO PREMIERE
Director: Sophia Peer
Executive Producers: Ryan Cunningham, Troy Thompson Co-Executive Producer: Randy Stulberg
Writers: Sophia Peer, Annie Sicherman
Producer: Manon Carrié Producers: Heather Brown, Kari Dexter, Samin Pogoff Associate Producers:
Daisy Borders, Dulce Lamarca
Cast: Annie Pisapia, Sofia Dobrushin, Lily Marotta, Milly Tamarez, Neal Medlyn, Maria Milian, Constance Cooper, Terry Fierro, Grace McCabe, Nick Pinkerton, Tom McCaffrey
USA, 31m

After jail-time, 12-step programs and 5 marriages, Annie begins her acting career in her fifties with the
help of a director she met at a Burger King.

INDEPENDENT PILOT COMPETITION (UNSCRIPTED)
Sponsored by Company 3
​
The Big Idea: The Last Mile
COLORADO PREMIERE
Directors: Sarah Klein, Tom Mason
Executive Producers: Angela Matusik, Alex Amouyel
Producers: Sarah Klein, Heather Martino
Cast: Kitty Liao
USA, 22m

When a cryogenics expert discovers that half of the world's vaccines spoil during the last mile, she
dedicates herself to creating a solution.

Resisting
WORLD PREMIERE
Producers: donnie l. betts, Britta Erickson, Tamara Banks, Peter Gilbert
Writers: donnie l. betts, Tamara Banks, Alexander Landau
USA, 30m

Resisting examines the crisis of policing practices and policies and the communal and individual impact of police brutality in America.

PILOTS IN PROGRESS
Sponsored by Company 3

Behind the Stripes
UNITED STATES PREMIERE
Director: Shantel Hansen
Executive Producers: Bart Longson, Ryan Dickson
Writers: N/A
Producers: Dean Blandino, Cyd Zeigler, Shantel Hansen
Cast: Teri Cook
USA, 30m

BEHIND THE STRIPES offers a behind-the-scenes look into the world of the most hated profession in the most beloved sport.

PITCH-A-THON!
Presented in partnership with Dilettante Productions and Working Artist Group

ELLIES
Writer: Mahlena-Rae Johnson
Canada

When an unexpected visitor arrives in her city, maverick senator Athena Napoli must stop the colonizer before he invades the entire country. ELLIES is a sci-fi dramedy for professional women ages 30-40 who wish they lived in a peaceful, matriarchal utopia run by Black women. It’s like Veep meets Black Panther with the heart of Parks and Recreation. This quirky, hour-long series contains twists, turns, and political hijinks. Even if you have never been lost in space, ELLIES will entertain audiences throughout the Milky Way and beyond.

Flock
Writer: Dan Mathis
USA

Meet Paul: A bible school dropout turned con-man. For a price, he and his manipulative wife, Beverly, sell door-to-door salvation -- Offering peace, hope, and forgiveness to the unforgivable, chronically shamed, and just plain crazy. Haunted by a con gone wrong that resulted in a girl's suicide, Paul struggles to pay off the impossible debt demanded by her gangster father. Complicating matters further, Paul meets Alice, a mysterious woman who offers a chance at redemption, but at what cost? With the clock ticking, dangerous debt collectors closing in, and feuding women on his shoulders, Paul must navigate the absurdity of his situation while grappling with a desire to become a better man.

Heaven Help Us
Writers: Carissa Blades & Jeff Chlebus
USA
When Angela arrives in Heaven with the purest of intentions and an open heart, she quickly realizes that humans desperately need her. She believes in righteousness and saving souls. But Heaven has the
corrupted politics of the superheroes on “The BOYS”, but with the hilarious monotony of having lived for all eternity with your immature coworkers.

Penis Cake
Writer: Qaseem Fazal
Canada

Penis Cake is a comedy series about being yourself and part of a chosen family that accepts you for it. It’s a fun show full of characters you don’t get to normally see together on television. A queer Muslim man, African-American trans woman, and African-American pansexual woman who all run a fun and inclusive Pastry School that also doubles as an online business called Penis Cakes. A place where students learn about the culinary arts and shoppers can find authentic and realistic Penises... curves, veins and all.

Silver Spoon
Writer: Lucy Porter
USA

When the matriarch of the dysfunctional family behind one of the nation’s largest restaurant chains
suddenly remarries, jeopardizing the future of the company, the family must reconcile their egos and
ignorance to maintain their declining breakfast food empire.

The Death Doula
Writer: Brittany Ballard
USA

When Shay, a seasoned Labor and Delivery Nurse, fails to prevent the traumatic loss of a Black
birthmother, she strikes out on her own to forge a new path as a Death Doula.

LATE NIGHT COMPETITION
Sponsored by Native Roots

A History of Sitting in Waiting Rooms (Or Whatever Longer Title You Prefer)
WORLD PREMIERE
Director: Lorena Russi
Executive Producer: McDonalds
Writer: Lorena Russi
Producers: Lorena Russi, Lizz Astor, Sydney Davis
Cast: Lorena Russi, Adam Jepsen, Savannah DesOrmeaux
USA, 8:52m

A coming of age story that follows an angsty, butch Latina fighting to find herself with the help of her
imaginary best friend, a civil war ghost.

Easily Solved Mysteries
WORLD PREMIERE
Director: Kevin Ralston
Executive Producers: Kevin Ralston, Laura Ornella
Writers: Kevin Ralston, Laura Ornella
Producers: Kevin Ralston, Laura Ornella
Cast: Laura Ornella, Joe Miciak, Kevin Ralston
USA, 9:32m

A woman wakes up in her apartment to find something wasn't how she left it. The search for an answer changes her life when it really doesn't need to.

Manimorphs
WORLD PREMIERE
Director: Georgia Kriss
Executive Producers: Georgia Kriss, Erica Rivinoja, Max Broude, Mike Cowap, Laura DiMaio, Nicholas
Veneroso, Brent Butler
Writer: Georgia Kriss
Cast: Aparna Nancherla, Brendon Walsh, Johnny Pemberton, Whitmer Thomas
USA and Australia, 11m

Three laboratory animals gain the ability to morph into humans and join society where they quickly learn we're all a bunch of animals.

One Million Girls
WORLD PREMIERE
Director: Valeria A. Avina
Executive Producers: Emily Dayton Evans and GARA
Writers: Emily Dayton Evans and GARA
Producer: Eileen Hanley
Cast: GARA, Emily Dayton Evans, Eileen Hanley, Ryan Leach, Nadia Pinder, Sheria Mattis, Natalie
Rotter-Laitman, Charlie Bardey, Dylan Adler, Vincent Ward
USA, 28m

One Million Girls is a wacky, absurd, and revolutionary all-LGBTQ+ sketch comedy series.

Silas
WORLD PREMIERE
Director: J. Soren Viuf
Executive Producer: Andrew Lane
Writer: Seth Taylor
Producer: Taylor Poling
Cast: Lestonja Diaz, Charlie Battaglia
USA, 10:33m

A teenage girl reanimates the corpse of her dead boyfriend... but he’s not the person he used to be.

COLLEGIATE CREATOR SPOTLIGHT
Presented in partnership with Once Upon A Time Productions

Hetero
WORLD PREMIERE
Directors: KJ Kieras, Bentley Eldridge
Executive Producers: KJ Kieras, Bentley Eldridge
Writers: KJ Kieras
Producers: KJ Kieras, Bentley Eldridge
Cast: Sabina Buensuceso, Jubilee Lopez, Adriane Watson, Eden Branford, Jonah Blue
USA, 16:26m

When the future of GSA is threatened, 5 friends team up with their school’s heterosexual population to learn what it means to be, or not be, hetero.

Sweeps
WORLD PREMIERE
Directors: Camille Hamadé
Executive Producers: Courtney Peck, Nino Tandilashvili, Silvia Chen, Camille Hamadé, Janice Nyam
Writers: Courtney Peck, Nino Tandilashvili
Producers: Courtney Peck, Nino Tandilashvili
Cast: Courtney Peck, Nino Tandilashvili, Paola Sanchez Abreu, Devin Lizardi, Stephanie Orta-Vázquez,
Dash Perry, Abby Lindsay, Delilah Napier, Anthoula Katsimatides, Zina Ellis
USA, 18:19m

Two best friends navigate the harsh realities of the entertainment industry while working in the
mailroom of a top talent agency.

Undeclared
WORLD PREMIERE
Director: Sevon Askew
Executive Producers: Timmy Thompson, Sophia Raines, Olivia Sinnott
Writer: Timmy Thompson
Producers: Hannah Gansert, Logan G Daitch, Stephanie Prestage,
Cast: Timmy Thompson, Ze'ev Barmor, Allison Bell, Ann Evans Watson, Tomias Robinson, Owen Scales, Nick Daly, Rixey Terry, Kelly Lomonte, Travis Anderson
USA, 15:44m

Chaim takes his roommate, Ellie, to an on-campus theatre club to help him find his purpose. However, things go south after Ellie meets Chaim’s new friends.

What Remains of Emily
NORTH AMERICA PREMIERE
Director: Mya-Breyana Morton
Executive Producer: Quinlan Orear
Writer: Aalexis Gaither
Producers: Tashina Southard, Olivia Grillo (Co-Producer)
Cast: Manahar Kumar, Andres Chaves, Mariana Gomez-Ruiz, Tad Hutt, Jahi Minkah Trotter, Dan Cott,
Harmony Kahuthu
USA, 23:50m

Miles, an outsider at an elite private school finds a mysterious book that can predict the future.

DIGITAL SHORT SERIES

A Guide To Not Dying Completely Alone
COLORADO PREMIERE
Director: Yen Tan
Executive Producer: Kevin Yee
Writer: Kevin Yee
Producer: Bekah Sturm
Cast: Kevin Yee, Brittani Nichols, Alex Macnicoll, Betsy Struxness, Paul Wong
USA, 12m

After a near death experience, a queer Asian writer decides to change his life for the better, and
chronicles his journey in a bitchy self help book.

Krystal Klairvoyant
WORLD PREMIERE
Director: Erin Good
Writers: Erin Good, Huna Amweero
Producers: Erin Good, Huna Amweero
Cast: Nancy Denis, Jordan Cowan, Leah Purcell, Tommy Misa, Alex Kis, Joshua McElroy
Australia, 45m

A vertical screen reality series about an online tarot card reader who discovers she's a witch.

Black Creek
WORLD PREMIERE
Director: Alexander East
Executive Producers: The East Brothers, Dillon Shealy, David Raab, Frank Ferrer
Writers: The East Brothers
Producers: The East Brothers
Cast: Noelle Cameron, Nican Robinson, Allen Rowell, J. Gaven Wilde, Chad Ayers, Olivia Samford
USA, 20m

A young woman is recruited by an underground organization to transport a mysterious package across warring state lines in a dystopian future South.

All At Once
COLORADO PREMIERE
Director: Mustafa Eck
Executive Producers: Mustafa Rony Zeno, Ahmed Soboh
Writer: Mustafa Eck
Producers: Mustafa Eck, Amina Nada
Cast: Paul Elia, Maz Siam, Allison Korman, John Wilcox, Melissa Kirk, Defecio Stoglin
USA, 12m

When Yasser’s Palestinian father prepares a traditional dinner for their guests, he must choose between supporting his dad or pleasing his new in-laws.

Our Man
WORLD PREMIERE
Director: Tom Curitore
Executive Producers: Tom Curitore
Writers: Audrey Rosenberg, Tom Curitore
Producer: Tom Curitore
Cast: Garrett Clayton, Brad Calcaterra
USA, 7:50m

A young gay man is forced to come to terms with a hatred for his tight-lipped gay ex-NYPD father when he learns of his father’s critical HIV diagnosis.

Revenge of the Black Best Friend
WORLD PREMIERE
Directors: Ian Keteku, Jerome Kruin, Thyrone Tommy
Executive Producers: Amanda Parris, Jonas Diamond, Julian De Zotti, Motion
Writers: Amanda Parris, Motion, Keavy Lynch, Seneca Aaron
Producers: Mercedes Grundy, Julian De Zotti, Amanda Parris
Cast: Oluniké Adeliyi, Andrea Lewis, Aiza Ntibarikure, Crystal Rose, Caitlin McKeon, Julian De Zotti,
Ashton James, Jenny Young, Chelsea Russell
Canada, 26m

Dr. Toni Shakur is a self-help guru whose mission is to cancel Film & TV’s reliance on token Black
characters...before she gets canceled herself.

Metal Man
COLORADO PREMIERE
Director: Laurel Parmet
Executive Producers: Tomas Pais
Writers: John Patton Ford, Tomas Pais
Producers: Kaelan Housewright, Tomas Pais
Cast: Tomas Pais, Lily Du, Da'Vone McDonald, Andrew Walke, David Massil
USA, 10m
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A heavy metal handyman gets called to fix a tub but gets pulled into the drama/life of his customer and must handle more than he signed up for.

Frederick Douglass Boulevard aka Food & Drink Boulevard aka F.D.B.
COLORADO PREMIERE
Director: Washington Kirk
Executive Producers: Miles Hodges, Washington Kirk
Writer: Washington Kirk
Producer: Walker Hare
Cast: Washington Kirk, Megan Robinson, Charles Everett, Jamie Lincoln Smith, Ron Canada
USA, 15m

Malcolm Jamal Turner, a struggling writer living in Harlem fed up with the neighborhood's changing
demographics, concocts a ludicrous scheme to de-gentrify it.

Pear
WORLD PREMIERE
Director: Betsy Kenney
Executive Producers: Madeline Mahoney, Peter Molesworth
Writer: Madeline Mahoney, Peter Molesworth
Producers: Julie Balefsky, Christine Spang
Cast: Madeline Mahoney, Peter Molesworth
USA, 11m

Two sociopathic wellness experts create a social media addiction rehab program which causes some
participants to physically vanish.

Jennifer and Chicken
COLORADO PREMIERE
Directors: Meg Kelly, Janette Danielson
Executive Producer: Meg Kelly
Writers: Meg Kelly
Producers: Meg Kelly, Janette Danielson, Tyler Peterson, Lauren Elyse Buckley, Max Kirkham
Cast: Meg Kelly, Lauren Elyse Buckley, Tyler Peterson, Peter Murphy
USA, 19:10m

A mockumentary comedy following toxic party-girl Jennifer in a DIY reality show co-starring her sweet best friend, Chicken.

Hot Toddy
COLORADO PREMIERE
Directors: Mary Sette, Animation Director: Anna Cangellaris
Executive Producers: Mary Sette, Anna Cangellaris
Writer: Mary Sette
Producers: Mary Sette, Anna Cangellaris, Allison Powell
Cast: Anna Seregina, Atsuko Okatsuka, Katrina Davis, Allison Powell
USA, 16:35m

Imagine if Humphrey Bogart wore Limited Too tops in this punk rock, teeny-bopper whodunnit about two ex-BFFS and a whole lot of bloodshed.

The Stu Sessions
COLORADO PREMIERE
Director: Jeffrey Hanley
Executive Producers: Jeffrey Hanley, Stu Stone, Adam Weitner
Writers: Jeffrey Hanley, Stu Stone, Amelia MacIssac, Cody Marcotte
Producers: Jeffrey Hanley, Stu Stone, Adam Weitner
Cast: Stu Stone, Adam Weitner
Canada, 9m

Welcome to the biggest unasked for comeback in music. This is The Stu Sessions: a 6-part docuseries that follows multi-hyphenate entertainer Stu Stone

Illegally Brown
COLORADO PREMIERE
Director: Gabriela Revilla Lugo
Executive Producers: Rachel Scott
Writers: Gabriela Revilla Lugo
Producers: Gabriela Revilla Lugo, Jessica Olthof
Cast: Jessica Marie Garcia, Annie Gonzalez
USA, 13:39m

A dark comedy in which two undocumented sisters become the ultimate hope to catch a terrorist
organization and save the country that expelled them.

Recovered
COLORADO PREMIERE
Director: Sam Martin Anneliese Toft
Executive Producer: Jack C Newell
Writer: Chuck Norment
Producer: Jack C Newell
Cast: Chuck Norment, Sarah Dell'Amico, Meredith Johnston, EJ Cameron, Mark Campbell, Katie Caussin
USA, 10m
​
Chuck, a transmasc narcissist, leaves rehab and makes a bigger mess of their already fu*ked up life.

There are a great many reasons to love SeriesFest. Such as the fact that one gets to enjoy early screenings of upcoming television shows. The kind that are complete with Q&A sessions from creatives that helped bring that show to life. Not to mention, the programming lineup is about as robust as it gets, ensuring that you get your money’s worth for this six-day event. But truly, what makes SeriesFest so worth our while, are the many panels that take place. Simply because they offer magnificent insight regarding the industry and oft focus on incredible topics. 
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In fact, one particular panel that stands out every year, is SeriesFest’s ‘Innovation Talks’. For this is that rare panel that features true titans of the industry, such as mega stars and top television executives, and they oft focus on critical and timely topics regarding the industry and give those in attendance plenty to ponder upon. If anything, that particular talk is top of mind today, simply because earlier… SeriesFest announced who will be joining this year’s ‘Innovation Talks’ and what they will be discussing and with that in mind… here are all the details on this important panel, courtesy of SeriesFest.

‘SeriesFest, the award-winning international festival and non-profit organization dedicated to championing emerging and underserved voices in storytelling, today announced the line-up for this year’s signature series, “Innovation Talks.”  In partnership with Liberty Global, these candid conversations with top level executives at SeriesFest: Season 9 (May 5-10) include Kathryn Busby (President, Original Programming, STARZ);  Wade Davis (Chief Executive Officer, TelevisaUnivision) speaking with Mike Fries (CEO, Liberty Global); and Adam Lewinson (Chief Content Officer, Tubi).  Aligning with this season’s theme, “What’s Your Perspective?,” each thought leader will share their point of view on the rapidly evolving television landscape. 
 
The annual six-day festival in Denver, Colorado, includes a full slate of in-competition screenings, panels, workshops, as well as never-before-seen sneak peeks and television premieres. The full schedule will be revealed in the coming days.
 
Launched over five years ago, the up-close and personal “Innovation Talks” series has spotlighted industry powerhouses including Ted Sarandos, Jon Feltheimer, Jeffrey Katzenberg, Jennifer Garner, Ben Silverman, W. Kamau Bell, Ann Dowd, Jane Turton, and more.
 
“It is thrilling to welcome three of the industry’s most respected leaders to the SeriesFest: Season 9 ‘Innovation Talks’ stage. Wade, Kathryn and Adam are trailblazers at the forefront of the ever-changing television landscape,” shares SeriesFest co-founder and CEO, Randi Kleiner. “Pushing boundaries with their groundbreaking ideas, these luminaries will share their perspectives on the industry and give attendees a front row seat to thought provoking discussions about shaping the future of television.”  
 
SeriesFest: Season 9 is presented with generous support from the following sponsors: Once Upon A Time Productions, Liberty Global, Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck, Denver Film, Caz Matthews, and United Airlines.
 
ABOUT SERIESFEST
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. Every 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 a musical performance and network screening at the world-renowned Red Rocks Amphitheatre, in-competition independent pilot screenings, panels, workshops, live reads, parties, and network television premieres.
Follow @seriesfest on Twitter
 
Please sign up to our newsletter on www.seriesfest.com or follow us on social media to receive the most up-to-date information!’

It is definitely safe to say, that the travel television show, has grown… comfortable if you will. Simply because anyone that tunes into that type of show, knows exactly what they are going to get. In that, the host will take the viewer to a beautiful or exotic place and show them everything it has to offer and what the local culture is like before moving onto their next destination, and no one has a problem with that for one simple reason. Because it gets the job done. Plus, it is informative, and it is so much a standard that it really appears as though, there is no other way to approach this kind of show. 
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But as it turns out, there is. For later this summer, truTV is going to debut its new series, 101 Places to Party Before You Die and this is… a revolutionary travel show, that outright takes you by surprise. Because at first glance it really does seem to be nothing but the norm. Since Adam Pally and Jon Gabrus take the audience along to the party destination of their choice, making it appear as though they’re going to spotlight why these places are a great place to let loose in the traditional manner. But once Adam and Jon settled into their destination it quickly became clear to those of us at the screening of this show at SeriesFest… that this was in fact, going to be a travel show unlike any other.

Because it isn’t enough for Adam and Jon to just venture to a town or location and look at a party destination… and talk about how cool it was to go there. They straight up party there, and they party hard. Since the audience watched these two dudes get wasted before our eyes and just take us on a wild journey around their chosen party town and that was just refreshing to enjoy. Since it basically allows for the viewer to experience what they did in a real-time manner, and it also doesn’t hurt… that the show is extremely funny. Because Adam and Jon let their comedic chops loose while they’re out and about and that leads to some rip-roaringly hilarious moments… the kind that actually managed to extend beyond the screening.

For the Q&A session that followed, was basically an extension of the show. Since Adam and Jon riffed about their experiences and once again let their best friend vibe take control. Not to mention, they cracked open a couple of beers during the panel, and Adam was enjoying a pizza while he spoke since he had a flight to catch and wanted a little food in his belly before taking off. Not to mention, these guys were so chill and so relaxed, they did some shots with an audience member. Something that nicely bookended the beer shot gunning that preceded the screener. Which really just made this… one of the most entertaining Q&A’s that this writer has ever attended.

But… all fun aside, what matters more, is that this screening really did liven up the travel sub-genre of television. By informing us that travel shows don’t have to be so formal and so robotic. They can allow for the host to really immerse themselves in the experience of the locale and enjoy it to the fullest and hopefully when this show hits in July, it will serve as a blueprint to change this type of show going forward. Because this really is a special and unique travel show, one that is fun and engaging and just a blast to watch, and we here at NTG cannot wait to break this series down further when it arrives on truTV.

There was a time, where the word ‘showrunner’ was nothing more than a confusing term to the average person. Because it wasn’t in our daily vernacular and few understood its meaning, so to hear it, would raise eyebrows for certain. But this peak era of television has changed all that, since our love of television has made the word a household name, and now if you ask casual fans of television or the hardcore ones what a showrunner does, they’ll be happy to speak to the basics of the position and its importance to the shows we know and love. Because that’s just how popular television is right now.

But while so many now have a rudimentary understanding of a showrunner and what their job entails, the gritty details regarding their position, and how exactly they bring a series together, is something only the hardest television hounds understand. Which is why events like SeriesFest, are eager to bring showrunners on stage. So, they can host a panel that informs folks that don’t know those details, of the day-to-day duties of their job and the difficulties they run into and of course, season eight of SeriesFest featured one of these panels, one that was supremely unique and extremely important.

For ‘Meet the Showrunners: Spotlight on Female Creators’ brought together Daisy Gardner (Single Drunk Female), Sierra Teller (Rutherford Falls), and Robin Veith (Candy) to of course, discuss the life and times of a showrunner. But having three revolutionary women on stage, who are assembling shows that are diverse and incredible and tell stunning stories, provided this panel with the opportunity to give the audience fascinating perspective. Specifically… the kinds of challenges this trio experienced on their way to the top seat on a television show and what challenges they face today and what the landscape of the business looks like now, post #MeToo, and well, hearing them speak to those topics made for a powerful hour of discussion.

One that was raw and visceral and honest and downright inspiring. Because this trio spoke to the power of the journey and the ups and downs it entails, and how kindness and camaraderie can be beneficial for those that ascend to the title of showrunner. But where this panel truly shined was by way of two key moments. The first is when the Q&A portion of the panel was opened to the audience. For this is when many of the brilliant women that submitted a pilot at SeriesFest or were up and coming students of the craft… were able to pick the brains of these three geniuses and gain honest insight and quality advice from them, making this a grand learning experience for so many… and a slice of history in a way.

For at the very end of the panel, a kind and gentle lady who was helping tote the microphone around the theater so others could ask their critical questions… took a moment to reveal that she was once in the industry as a camera operator in the 1970s and she wanted to express to these wondrous showrunners... what it meant to see them on stage and in charge and that was just poignant and moving and powerful. And while the industry still has miles to go in regard to equality, it was amazing to soak in the reality that progress has been made in that moment, and of course… it was equally as amazing to learn from these titans of the industry, and this writer absolutely has to offer up thanks to SeriesFest for bringing this insightful and inspiring and downright incredible panel to life. Because this… was something special.

It is definitely safe to say, that the pilot episode, is something that is highly sought after by both casual and hardcore fans of television. Simply because, the vast majority of pilots are rarely seen by the viewing public. Sure, there are focus groups that take a look at them, and a few out there on the internet. But more often than not, pilots come and go and the ones we do see… often serve as the series premiere of a new show. But that doesn’t stop television fans from wanting to see them and pour over what this early stage in the creative process looks like and see what kind of incredible creativity is out there, and there is one event that is working to make that happen.

For SeriesFest holds a pilot competition annually, one that features pilots from around the globe. Allowing for attendees that want to see what pilots look like, a chance to enjoy them at last, and it also allows for them to meet some of the creators of these shows, since they’re in attendance. But above all else, it allows for fans at this event, the chance to really see some special pilots. The kind that speaks to the future of television and likely harbors future stars. If anything, the pilot episode and SeriesFest are top of mind today, simply because... of the many pilots present at this year’s competition, one stood out above the rest, in our eyes… and we thought it would be fun to spotlight the sketch-comedy pilot, Syd & Mike.

Which at first glance, is a sentence that likely raised a few eyebrows. Because let’s be honest, sketch comedy is everywhere these days, and if you’re not watching some form of it on television… you’re watching it via YouTube and other streamers, so why spotlight more of the same? Well, the answer to that question is simple. Because this particular pilot, is rip-roaringly hilarious… and that’s no small feat. Because making people laugh and laugh heartily is no easy task, but Syd & Mike make it happen on screen courtesy of some wonderfully written and well-thought-out sketches that are filled with the perfect jokes and perfect comedic timing. The kind that motivates the viewer to just bust out laughing and that’s special for certain, and the wonder of this pilot, doesn’t end there.

Because what makes the jokes work so well and what makes this series so engaging… is that it is grounded in intelligent comedy. For instance, there is a sketch where Syd & Mike play a pair of characters that are polar opposites. One loves the outdoors, and one does not, and the extremes the latter goes to in order to avoid an outdoor excursion is not only hilarious, but painfully relatable. Since there are so many of us that just don’t subscribe to the hiking life, and that sketch also offers up some biting satire and commentary on our world, and that’s just something you don’t see in sketch comedy all of that often. But what really impressed this writer, was the sheer fact that every single sketch in this pilot, featured all of those elements and that every single sketch stuck the landing.

Which is incredibly impressive, since most sketch comedy shows tend to have at least one misfire sketch per episode. But this dynamic duo hit on all cylinders, and they did such a fine job, that they won the Late Night Audience Choice Award at SeriesFest and while we cannot show you the pilot here, we wanted to make sure it was on your radar and that Syd & Mike were as well. Because they’re hilarious. Which is why you should follow their Instagram page for updates on the pilot and to enjoy their wonderful brand of humor, and as an added bonus… we landed an interview interview with Syd & Mike and the show’s co-creator Carl Conway. So check back with us to learn more about the formation of this duo and how they assemble their sketches. But in the meantime, to make sure you get a proper understanding of how great this show really is… here is the trailer for all of you to enjoy.

Everywhere you look these days, there is some kind of ‘based upon a true story’ series popping up on television. The kind that tends to focus squarely on grave crimes that have been committed in recent years or spotlight a powerful moment in recent history. The kind that turned heads and had us buzzing well before the internet was a thing, and it makes sense as to why these are suddenly so popular. Because the demand for television is at an all-time high, as is our love of watching actors transform into people from history. Allowing for these shows to thrive at the moment. But while it is nice to know that history is indeed being documented consistently, the heavy push toward making those types of stories a primary focus of television… does leave something to be desired.
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After all, there are more true stories about our world out there. The kind that teaches us different aspects about our world and the human experience, and the good news is… a refreshing and downright powerful show in that vein is about to make its debut on AMC+, entitled, This Is Going to Hurt. Which is a series that chronicles a corner of our world few have ever explored before and well… it just so happens that this series enjoyed a special screening at SeriesFest 8 on May 7, 2022… and we here at NTG thought it would be worthwhile to speak a little bit about this series and what separates it from the ‘true story’ pack… and talk about how special this screening turned out to be. 

With that in mind, let’s talk about the plot and its sheer uniqueness. For this is a story that is based off writer Adam Kay’s memoir, which shares the namesake of the show, and in this series, Adam brings to life a re-telling of his time as a doctor in a maternity ward. Which is without a doubt, a fresh and original story that we really haven’t seen on the television landscape all that often, and thanks to Adam’s involvement with the series as a writer and Ben Whishaw’s incredible performance as the small screen version of Adam… we are treated to one powerful tale. One that showcases every aspect of working in this sector of the medical field in a powerfully intimate manner.

Which is, suffice to say, all that we are going to say about the plot. For the details are reserved for our upcoming recaps of the show and because we simply don’t want to spoil it ahead of time. Instead, it’s best this writer informs you of the fact, that it is powerful and moving and eye-opening for certain, and the realism of this series makes sense when one can hear how passionate its writer is about retelling this chapter of his life, which we were able to experience. For Adam Kay was on hand to discuss the crafting of the series after the screening, and he gladly informed an eager audience about his motivations to keep this series so intimate and so raw and real, and how the important moments in the series premiere came together, and it was just incredible to get that first-hand knowledge and be present for quite the interactive surprise.

For as an added bonus, copies of Adam’s book were hidden around the theater for people to find, and later have signed, and it was just amazing to see that kind of gift come forth at an event where such generosity wasn’t a requirement. But it happened and it spread infinite joy and this writer also needs to offer up thanks to AMC Networks and Adam for making that happen, and to SeriesFest for letting all of us enjoy this refreshing and powerful show. Because this kind of true story series is more of what the world needs right now, to really experience the wonder of the human condition and hosting this kind of story at SeriesFest also speaks to how much SeriesFest believes in celebrating the best parts of television and well, we here at NTG cannot wait for all of you to experience this series and its majesty when it debuts on AMC+ on June 2, 2022.

One particular lament that comes up often regarding creatives minds in the entertainment industry… is that the professional in question, often wishes that someone was there early in their career to give them honest guidance and direction. The kind that would paint a picture of what the business is like and what they can expect and how best to go about doing their job. Because… there really isn’t that kind of honest guide out there. Sure, there are books and courses that teach the craft. But the nit and the grit, the stuff that will really hit home for a burgeoning writer or actor, well that’s stuff that just you can’t find on the shelf. 

But thankfully, as the industry continues to transform and becomes more accessible in every way imaginable, those lessons are finding their way to the masses and one such event that is leading the way in getting honesty out to folks that want in on the Hollywood experience, is SeriesFest. Because not only were actors from television walking about and chatting up with attendees and contestants, but they even held their own panel to give prospective actors or the curious, information about the state of the industry for actors and the many hats actors now have to wear, alongside offering some sound advice about how to navigate Hollywood… all of which made; Behind the Scenes: Actors on the Other Side of the Camera… one compelling panel. 

For it featured a wonderfully diverse sampling of actors, such as: Denzel Whitaker (Black Panther), Peter Paige (The Fosters), Diallo Riddle (Sherman’s Showcase), and Tara Westwood (The Grudge) who each had some powerful things to say about how and why actors are now producers and directors as well. A lot of which relates to the need to put those hats on, to properly bring a vision to life or to obtain the roles that they absolutely want to play and doing so… can in fact, enhance an actor’s experience and understanding of the industry they love so. Since so many of the panelists spoke to how becoming a director and/or producer, helped them to learn every critical role on set.

But there was mention of unique advice present within this panel and goodness, did the actors have plenty of wonderful tidbits for Hollywood hopefuls in the audience. Because they made it clear, how tough a career in film and television will be if one chooses to pursue it, and how much one must love what they do to handle the heartbreak and pivots and tough times that lie ahead before one can be considered a working actor in the business and well… this was just incredible to be in the audience for. Because it was solid and passionate and tough advice, the kind a young actor needs. Because honesty informs a young actor if this is the path they want to walk and if it is, then that advice inspires.

Because now they know what they are up against and how hard they will have to fight to get what they want and how to pivot and wear other hats to find the success of their peers on stage and that… was just refreshing to experience. Because that’s real talk that we need more of and well… at the very least, we know we will find such insight at SeriesFest. Because this is an event that is unlike any other and truly wants to celebrate the industry in every way imaginable and this writer cannot thank them enough for hosting an honest and powerful panel aimed at educating Hollywood hopefuls, and hardcore and casual fans of television.

This past weekend I was treated to a new show on TBS called Rat in the Kitchen, courtesy of SeriesFest. As it happens, cooking shows are one of my personal favorites, so when I found out it was hosted by Chef Ludo Lefebvre and Comedian Natasha Leggero, I had to check this screening out. The premise of the show is different than any other cooking competition. Six chefs are competing for $50k, the only catch is that one of them isn’t who they appear to be. One chef is a “rat”, and their job is to sabotage the other chefs’ dishes.
 
If chef Ludo doesn’t like the dish he’s been presented, then money moves from the vault to the Rat’s vault. At the end of two rounds, the chefs vote on who they think the Rat is among them. If they guess correctly, the chefs walk away with the remaining money in their vault. If they guess wrong, however, the Rat wins whatever money was in their vault. 

It’s a wonderful twist to the game of cooking competitions. Admittedly, I thought I was really good at picking out who the Rat was, based on my previous experience with “find the person who did it” shows. Turns out, this isn’t that easy. With all the chaos going on, the Rat goes undetected pretty well sometimes. There is also always a mislead, and that is always fun. Either way, this show is a full-on rollercoaster of entertainment. It’s the kind of show that won’t hurt your feelings and is just straight up fun. Trying to find the saboteur and watching as everyone conspires against each other is also fun. The contestants know from the start that one of them is a Rat, so it’s not a surprise in that sense. It creates a level of mistrust amongst everyone, even more so when they’re given dishes to prepare as a group or in pairs, forcing them to interact.

Most competition shows are notorious for having a judge that’s cruel, snarky, and mean. This show, however, lacks that. While Chef Ludo gives criticism, he’s never nasty to anyone. He often offers helpful advice and is kind to everyone, even if he doesn’t like their dish. It’s a breath of fresh air. Natasha is a hilarious addition, hosting the show with grace and the humor we have all come to love from her. The show itself is light in a sense that it’s just good fun and nothing stressful. Natasha and Ludo seem to have an on-screen friendship that seems to have translated over into real life. Their banter is carefree and, above all, natural throughout the show and in person. They complement each other nicely, and I’m not sure this show would work without them.

Rat in the Kitchen returns to TBS on May 19 and the previews look amazing! While a second season hasn’t been announced just yet, we can only hope it’ll happen soon. For anyone in Colorado, Chef Ludo’s restaurant, Chez Maggy, is open and has a very impressive menu. He is, after all, a Michelin star Chef, so expect nothing but the best!