March 29, 2012 – Whew, what a month here at the IPF offices. For our March 1 Phase 1 deadline we received 153 applications for our web series production program. It was a blast to read all the amazing ideas folks have. We got a variety of submissions ranging from epic time travelling space adventures and doggy weddings to heartfelt last moments and choose your own adventure thrillers. We had the very difficult job of narrowing down the submissions to 31 projects to move on to the second phase of applications. The projects selected to move forward have until May 1 to submit more in-depth, longer applications.

The process of selecting the finalists to move forward was complex and thorough. The jury consisted of over 20 people and included industry professionals with experience in digital media, web series and traditional media. They were teamed up with advanced media students to offer their thoughts on each application. The main focus for evaluation was the creative concept. Evaluators also considered how developed the project was and how feasible the budget and production schedule were and the business and marketing plans. It was a lot to fit into 6 pages! The finalists selected reflect a variety of industry experience from new producers to industry veterans.

We are excited to learn more about the projects, there are a great variety of genres represented telling many amazing stories. The finalists represent a large assortment of genres. We’ve got fantasy with Mila’s Fountain, sports with The Bullpen, comedy with Amateur Night, teen with Unlikely Heroes and more mystery with Guidestones II. Then of course we throw in one about LARPing, 1950’s housewife superheroes and, of course, we’ve got some zombies. Reading through the phase two applications should be pretty fun. We were happy to see some second seasons move forward alongside many great new concepts. We offer our sincere congratulations to the phase one finalists and our sincere thanks to all the applicants who shared their amazing ideas with us.

This month we were also pleased to welcome Jeremy Butteriss from YouTube to the IPF Board of Directors. We are thrilled to have someone with his experience to join our team. It is going to be an exciting year here at the IPF!

The web series moving forward to the second phase of applications are: