Fusion, a network that focuses on programming for youth, has issued an open call for scripted and unscripted TV projects. The mission is generating new opportunities for young storytellers of different backgrounds and other under-represented areas of creative talent without industry connections.
The Creative Board of Fusion, including Henry Louis Gates Jr. and founding members Viola Davis, Ezra Edelman, Jodie Foster, Meryl Streep and Residente (aka Rene Perez Joglar) will review submissions.
The board was formed in May to identify the next generation of creators and filmmakers. Members of the board also play a role in Fusion’s content development process, helping to curate untold stories.
Those filmmakers that are selected will receive funded development deals with the network, which promises at least one project selected green light next year.
Submissions are being accepted on a rolling basis and should center around stories that “speak to the interests and issues that matter to America’s diverse youth—reflecting their curiosity, sharpness, and passion,” according to Fusion. Selected submissions will receive funded development deals with the network. Interested writers, filmmakers, and producers can submit pitches on the company web site at Fusion.net/submissions.
“Addressing the issue of representation in media starts with identifying and investing in a pipeline of talent who represent the diversity that makes this country great,” said Gates, the chairman of the Creative Board. “Then we need to provide them with opportunities where they can color outside the lines and think beyond the usual script. We hope our open call helps break down some of the institutional barriers to entry for young, diverse storytellers.”
Felipe Holguin, the president and COO of Fusion Media Group, said the open call “is an exciting and impactful demonstration of our organization’s commitment. We look forward to seeing great, original stories from talented creators on the FUSION network.”
Fusion Media Group includes a wide array of media brands including The A.V. Club, Clickhole, Deadspin, Gizmodo, Jalopnik, Jezebel, Kotaku, Lifehacker, The Onion, The Root, Splinter, and others. Fusion Media Group also includes production studios such as Story House Entertainment and Onion Studios.
What do you think? Discuss this story with fellow Project Casting fans on Facebook. On Twitter, follow us at @projectcasting.
