Online distribution platform Chill is moving into the next stage of crowdfunding as it launches episodic funding for its first original series, Jason Mewes-fronted Vigilante Diaries.
The online network is asking viewers to fund each episode of the 10-episode run and, as long as it reaches $50,000 in the first month, it will produce more episodes. Viewers can pay $4.99 to download and stream the first two episodes with more packages for viewers that wish to send to friends.
The series is fronted by Clerks star Mewes and is a black comedy looking at the world of vigilante justice. It was created by Christian Sesma and Paul Sloan.
“This is not crowdfunding,” said Chill chief executive Brian Norgard. “Our episodic funding represents a new direction for digital series. We’re working outside of the ad-supported world, which lets creators take risks without answering to brands, networks or agencies. In its purest form, this is a model for series that cannot be cancelled as long as viewers are willing to support them.
“The most interesting, touching and powerful content will be created, distributed and remixed on the web. Just look at what’s going on right now with Veronica [Mars], Zach [Braff] and beyond. It’s happening and we’re only in the embryonic period.”
Chill, which distributes movies such as Birdemic 2: The Resurrection and John Cusack-voiced Summerhood, as well as comedy specials from the likes of Arrested Development’s Maria Bamford, is funded by William Morris Endeavor and private equity investor Kleiner Perkins.
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