Scriptwriter and journalist Jane Marlow and producer Virginia Orr have launched Donut Films, with the company’s first project, “They Them Us,” being picked up by Canadian LGBTQ+ television network and streaming serviceThe eight-part returnable drama is a relationship series set among a group of 20-something friends who are exploring their sexuality, identity and gender.
“They Them Us” has also been selected as one of 10 in-development projects to be screened at France’s Série Series festival this month. It will be showcased in the festival’s new strand, Spotlight on Trailers by Série Series, which aims to help European producers working on new projects to access partners and financing.
Donut Films, a cross-platform production company focusing on drama and comedy, shot a test-of-concept pilot of “They Them Us” in November 2019 after working with gay, trans, non-binary and straight actors in the development process. Artist, filmmaker and campaigner Fox Fisher from My Genderation also came on board for the pilot as story consultant.
Marlow said: “‘They Them Us’ is a story that reflects how young adults in 2020 are exploring their sexuality and gender identity in more detail and more freely than previous generations. We wanted to make a show with high emotional stakes that is hooky and returnable and also authentic. While ‘They Them Us’ speaks to a specific experience, its appeal lies in the universal theme of identity.
Marlow’s career spans screenwriting, TV-industry journalism and content production. Her TV career started as a storyliner on “