Mark Duplass and Mel Eslyn’s pandemic-born indie series “Penelope” has found a home with Netflix, marking a significant milestone for the creators. The announcement came during their appearance at SeriesFest, where they revealed that Netflix had acquired the U.S. rights to the show’s first season.
Reflecting on the journey of bringing “Penelope” to audiences, Duplass described the six-month process of finding a distributor as “insane.” Despite the challenges, they received significant interest from various parties and ultimately landed a deal with Netflix. This marks a new frontier in independent television production, as Duplass highlighted the lack of established models for independently funding and distributing TV shows.
The series, co-written by Duplass and directed by Eslyn, follows a unique distribution model. Duplass Brothers Productions plans to sell both domestic and international rights to “Penelope” through a piecemeal approach, allowing them to maintain control over the show. This approach includes retaining the option for a second season, giving them flexibility and creative autonomy.
Duplass emphasized the importance of mitigating risks for Netflix by minimizing their financial exposure. This strategy aims to foster a collaborative relationship with the streaming giant while ensuring the independence and integrity of the series.
Eslyn elaborated on the challenges they faced in navigating the landscape of independent television production. The unconventional nature of the project meant that traditional buyers were hesitant to commit, prompting Duplass Brothers Productions to take matters into their own hands.
Despite the uncertainties, Duplass and Eslyn remained steadfast in their vision for “Penelope.” They were determined to preserve the authenticity and uniqueness of the series, even if it meant taking on the financial burden themselves. This decision was driven by their passion for the project and a desire to create something meaningful and true to their vision.
Overall, the acquisition of “Penelope” by Netflix represents a triumph for independent creators seeking to break new ground in the ever-evolving landscape of television production. It showcases the power of perseverance, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit in bringing innovative storytelling to audiences worldwide.
