A fan of episodic television, I had the crazy idea to make a series for YouTube. It would have to move at a breakneck pace and be short enough for people to actually complete the episode. The result is the sci-fi noir superhero mashup The Connection. I released an episode online every week for 7 weeks. My friends tuned in and the viewship grew. I was even featured on the front page of Princeton, NJ based U.S.1 newspaper.
It’s been a great ride making and promoting the well received Season 1. It’s been nominated for Best Web Series and Outstanding Sci-Fi Series. The feedback we’re receiving encourages us to move forward with Season 2.
Toward the end of shooting Season 1, we were able to close out production on four episodes at a pace so fierce and efficient it gives me energy just thinking back on it. Kelsey Hoffman (pictured above) joined us, bringing incalculable energy and exuberance to the show, wrapped her leading role and substantial scene-count in just one weekend.
Lead Actor and Executive Producer Damian Gaeta (pictured below) took home a Best Actor award in New Jersey Web Festival for his deep and anguished portrayal of our favorite sixth-sense detective Max. It’s a tough role to play and he gave it his all. I’m ecstatic that he’s been formally recognized for it. This post, however, is going to celebrate more than just Damian’s achievements.
Producer Michael Bollentin hustled his buns off to find us locations and props for just about whatever we needed. Making use of visually rich locations including a beautiful diner, an interesting alleyway, old warehouse, a stylish apartment, and a not so stylish apartment. Gaffer-extraordinaire and master of light Malachi Matcho lit this diner location with our new powerful Dracast Pro LED production lights financed by Executive Producer Rob Simpson to light the stunning scene below.
FroVideo frequent collaborator Ithamar Francois (Wynton) earned a nomination for Best Supporting Actor for his terrific care-free portrayal of the luckiest man alive. Sound Designer/Composer Michael Engesser earned 2 nominations for Best Original Score. His technical expertise is out of this world and his work ethic is enviable. Ilene Sullivan constantly impressed us by nailing the out-there role of Khara on every take. Alex Alessi as the Client was memorable where it counts and forgettable when he needed to be — What a great performance!
Providing support were actor/musicians Darrell J. Watts and Jaime Parker, Will Umoja, Thomas J. O’Brien, Vince Lockett (below), and award-winning actress Jillie Simon. They all nailed their respective roles and it wouldn’t feel like such a colorful and developed world without their contributions!
Sound Recordist/Brother Colin Froening captured every quiet moment. Robin Hunt, VFX powerhouse, helped make some of the more memorable shots a reality. Devin Dean of Martial Evolution helped us kick ass on screen by choreographing and performing in some awesome fight scenes. A special thanks to Konner Bollentin, James and Alexander Froening, Donovan and Neusa Klotzbeacher, actor/personality Nick Twist, and filmmakers Jes Vasquez and Allan Sconza, Jr. for rounding out our cast. I cannot forget Executive Producer Nancy Layng-Froening, without whom this entire series would not be possible because she gave birth to me. You’ve always believed in me and been a huge champion of my artistic side for as long as I can remember. Thank you for everything.
I’m blessed to work with each of these talented professionals and thrilled that this project has the power to bring us all together. We have festivals in Brooklyn and Atlantic City to look forward to. FroVideo film Cog and Gear (2018) took home Best Short Drama Award at Atlantic City Cinefest last year and this year we’re excited they’re screening the first season in its entirety.
“But what about Season 2?” you might ask. We did a lot with a little this year and Season 2’s completion to the story is way more expansive. If you’re interested in being a key part of making Season 2 happen, contact producer Michael Bollentin about investment opportunities at mbollentin@gmail.com and help us unlock some doors and minds.
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