Frequency The Web Series - An LGBT Sci-Fi Adventure

Across Space And Time

The premise of Frequency is refreshingly different among similarly themed sci-fi web series.

The project centers on two exceptional women who find themselves inexorably drawn together from across space and time.

The show is set in a world where certain individuals have access to extra-sensory "frequencies" which give them special powers such as: mind control, healing, and telekinesis.

Frequency takes place in two time periods: 1986, and the present day.

In the present day we meet Claire Du Maurier (Meredith Sause), a powerful clairvoyant.  Guided by her visions, she is driven to try to prevent the catastrophes she sees.

In 1986 we are introduced to Deanna Shelley, D.D.S. (Lisa Gagnon),  a free-spirited dentist who is also a telepath.   

Deanna and Claire's destinies become intertwined when they encounter Travis (Anthony Hughes), an enigmatic time-traveler with a connection to both women.

Sci-Fi On A Different Frequency

Produced by KV Works, Frequency is a intriguing mix of  sci-fi, action-adventure, and romantic drama told from the LGBT perspective.

This makes for terrific and unique storytelling, especially since science fiction centering on LGBT characters still remains far too rare.  

Fortunately, the project  is part of a new watershed of speculative fiction being told by diverse, underrepresented cultural voices.

Beyond The Typical

Written and produced by women, the show features a script of uncommon complexity. 

The series' main hallmark is the performances of leads Ms. Sause and Ms. Gagnon. Both women have great chemistry and charisma.

The cinematography is also a standout.  Being shot on location in North Carolina gives Frequency a regional flavor that helps set it apart from similar projects.

The series also has gritty action scenes that are well choreographed and executed.

My only major criticism is the narrative can be difficult to follow at times.

While individual scenes are often quite compelling, connecting plot lines are sometimes muddled by character motivations and reactions that can seem illogical.

Overall,  the series is an engaging watch with fascinating characters you quickly become invested in.

Watch the series official trailer below for a peek inside the world of Frequency:

To watch the show, check out its channel on YouTube.

UPDATE 5/18/2018:

The complete series is now exclusively available for streaming via AmazonVideo.

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Transolar Galactica The Sci-Fi Web Series - A Review

Journey Into Hilarity

Transolar Galactica is a sci-fi comedy web series that satirizes popular tropes of genre icons such as Star Trek, Star Wars, Firefly and Battlestar Galactica.

Written by Clancy Bundy and Adam Harum, the series recounts the adventures of the crew of the S.S. Transolar as they traverse the galaxy epically fumbling one mission after another.

Led by the arrogant and inept Captain Remmingtion Trigger (Isaac Joslin), the rest of the crew includes:

• Petty Officer McCall (Adam C. Boyd) The constantly beleaguered ship's engineer

• Security Chief Reginald Murdock (Clancy Bundy) A testosterone-riddled, shoot first ask questions later macho man

• Samson (Adam Harum) The meek communications officer with a mysterious past

• Pilot Charles Sang-Soo Yasaki (Jade Warpenburg) The rational and lone voice of reason aboard a ship of misfits

The first season of the show is comprised of ten episodes averaging between 3 and 7 minutes in length. Each installment is a stand alone episode, which makes the series very accessible to new viewers.

Let me just say, Transolar Galactica skillfully succeeds in poking fun at the most nonsensical tropes of many beloved sci-fi franchises.

For example, one episode addresses the illogical risks the command staff take in going on almost every away mission. On other hilarious occasions, you witness what really happens when a space vessel is pushed beyond its physical  limits.

Even the show's  terrific cinematography is a send-up of one of J.J. Abrams' widely ridiculed directorial affectations.

However, the lynchpin that makes the humor work is the performance of Mr. Warpenburg as Pilot Yasaki.

His rational objections to the absurdities around him generates a major portion of the show’s humor - and serves to drive home the satire.

Without his straight-man reactions, most of the comedy would fall into unfunny, over-the-top camp.

A Skilled Crew

On the production side, the show features striking sets, costumes, and visual effects - especially the virtual computer displays and controls.

What makes the production value all the more impressive is the entire first season was produced on less than a shoe-string budget.  

The eye-popping results serve as a testament to the exceptional skills and talents of all involved.

The official series trailer is available for viewing below:

To watch the complete season one episodes, check out the show's channel on YouTube.

If you want to know more about the production and how you can support the series, visit the official web site: TransolarGalactica.com

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Revelations The Web Series: An Apocalyptic Survival Saga

Hell On Earth Is Only The Beginning

Revelations The Series is not what you think it is.

Is it based on a biblical prediction of the end of the world?

Yes.

Is it filled with self-righteous sermonizing?

To my surprise, that would be a resounding NO.

Revelations is a story of survival after the apocalyptic biblical event known as The Rapture has occurred..

It is literally hell on earth.

The globe's population is decimated and being terrorized by demonic entities now roaming the planet.

Onto this stage we meet  ex-marine Jeremy (Cuyle Carvin), young mother Dana (Marlene Mc'Cohen), and stalwart survivor Darius (Wil Gelin).  

These three haunted people are drawn together by their acute survival instincts and shared sense of loss.

Visions Of A Haven

Jeremy has been having dreams and visions about a secluded cabin he believes is a safe haven from the living nightmare the earth has become.  

When asked by a skeptical Dana where this refuge is located, he only replies "to the north."

As the trio journeys northward, they must contend with horrors both infernal and all too human.

All the while they must grapple with the question of whether they are headed to a haven of safety, or embarking on the ultimate fool's errand.

A Different Take On The Apocalypse

Revelations is about the apocalypse, but thankfully there are no zombies anywhere in sight.  

In fact, the tone of the series is more akin to Stephen King's classic The Stand.

Written and directed by Robert Michael Ryan, the script doesn't shy away from the biblical origin of the apocalypse. However, you don't feel as though you are attending a Sunday School class.

There are no lengthy monologues pontificating about God, sin, etc.  The characters acknowledge the rapture has happened, but their main motivation is surviving their new reality.

The cast performances are extremely believable and raw. These actors have chops, and make you feel their despair, grief, and just under the surface, hope.

Another series highlight  is outstanding cinematography.

From the devastated unnamed cityscape at the beginning, to the gorgeous forests and mountainous regions featured in later episodes, the project has a crisp, slightly washed-out look that is a perfect compliment to its gritty tone.

Revelations contains plenty of action too. The combat scenes are very well choreographed and executed.

My only minor quibble is a few of the visual effects shots used to show the blasted cityscape look unconvincing.  

Other than that minor flaw, Revelations' aesthetic is on par with many  similar projects on cable or network television.

Here is the series teaser trailer:

To watch Revelations, visit its channel on YouTube.

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The Super Alliance - A Web Series Review

Average Joe No More

Produced by Awkward Alien Productions (LOVE the name!), The Super Alliance is a web series about John Jupiter (Bruce Novakowski), an average Joe who suddenly discovers he has telekinetic powers.

Reveling in his new found abilities, John does what most of us would do in his circumstance - test out our new powers on everything around us.

Unfortunately, John's life will take a 180º turn from the ordinary to the bizarre with the receipt of an unusual invitation.

A Strange Offer

Shortly after discovering his unique ability, John receives a strange invitation from the enigmatic Rob (Frank Rose Bailey IV) to join a group of misfits who call themselves "The Super Alliance."

Rob reveals he knows about John's newfound powers, and insists he would make a great addition to his organization.  

Skeptical, John brushes him off, but he soon finds himself the target of mysterious forces.

Is The Super Alliance what they appear to be, or do they have a hidden agenda?

 Inspired by Geek Icons

The series producers have stated their inspiration came from the work of geek icons such as Stan Lee and Joss Whedon.

Their influence is clearly evident in John Jupiter's character and origin:

• Like Stan Lee's Peter Parker or Joss Whedon's Buffy Summers, John is an everyman, not a powerful alien or wealthy playboy

• Despite his powers, he still must deal with problems in his career and relationship

• He is just learning to deal with his gift. Becoming a do-gooder isn't high on his list of priorities - yet

• John unwittingly becomes the target of unknown, hostile forces

 An Alliance Worth Joining?

As of the date of this writing, The Super Alliance has released two episodes containing seeds of a compelling take on the superhero genre.  

Here is the official series trailer:

This is an independent production with a very limited budget, so it isn't quite as polished as other similar projects. However, the passion and love of the genre shines through in the plotting and cast performances.

Still in its infancy, the producers have stated five additional episodes will be released later in 2014. 

i found the universe of The Super Alliance engaging enough to join up to see where the story goes.

To watch the series, visit its official YouTube channel: TheSuperAlliance2013.

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Ragged Isle The Web Series: A Spine-Tingling Supernatural Mystery

2014 Starts Off With A Bang

2014 is getting off to a great start here at The 7th Matrix,  since the very first web series featured this year turns out to be one of the best.

Ragged Isle is described by co-creator Barry Dodd as a supernatural mystery inspired by genre classics such as Twin Peaks, Dark Shadows,  and The  X-Files.

I would have to whole-heartedly agree.

The Dark Heart of An Island

Ragged Isle is set in a tiny fishing community located on an island right off the coast of Maine. 

One eventful summer,  a young woman named Vicki Burke  (Meghan Benton) arrives on the island  to accept a job with the local newspaper - and reconnect with her twin brother who resides there.

However, the self-assured Vicki quickly finds herself smack in the middle of bizarre events that crack open the island's darkest and deadliest secret.

Soon after her arrival, citizens of the island start turning up dead.  

The manner of their deaths? Drowning - on land, nowhere near the water, with their clothing completely dry.

As Vicki begins to piece together the truth behind the mysterious deaths, she and the residents of the island slowly begin to realize dark forces are at work.

Forces that may never let anyone leave Ragged Isle again.

An Impressive Showcase

Produced by local digital media company Entertainment Experiment, the project is filmed entirely on locations in the state of Maine.  

You first notice you are watching something special from the moment the exquisite opening credits roll.

The producers use the gorgeous local scenery to full effect.  You can almost  smell the salt in the sea air.   

In fact, the locale is another main character in the piece.

The breathtaking cinematography features azure skies, foam-capped waves, verdant island foliage, and a picturesque New England town.

The  plot of Ragged Isle  unspools gradually, but not too slowly.

 Its precise pacing  serves to build suspense, since you are uncovering the island's unnerving secrets along with the characters.

Another series highlight is the cast.

The acting prowess of not only the main cast, but also the background players, is nothing short of first-rate.  

The dialogue is written in the way people actually speak - and the actors' delivery makes you feel as though you are eavesdropping on personal conversations.

Also, I would be very remiss if I failed to mention the sensational soundtrack.

Complied with original songs spanning folk and rock genres, the music is seamlessly integrated into the  narrative - helping to give the project a very distinct identity.

Visit Ragged Isle

Currently Ragged Isle is in the middle of its third and final season.  

The good news? 

You can catch up on every single episode  by visiting the official series web site:  RaggedIsle.com.

Here is the trailer for season one:

Ragged Isle is a seductive siren song of mystery and suspense. 

Highly recommended!

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Top 19 Sci-Fi Web Series Of 2013 Part Two

The Rest Of The Best

Last week,  we presented the first half of our top 20 sci-fi web series of 2013 list.

This week, it's our privilege to feature the best of the rest!  

So, what made these projects stand out amongst their accomplished peers?

All of  these series, though each quite different,  share one common trait: they excel in reinvigorating stale, cliche´d genre tropes by infusing them with fresh, exciting ideas.

So without further ado, prepare to re-enter the portal for another visit to worlds fantastic - as represented by these exceptional series!

*Note: All of these series were discovered and featured in 2013 by The 7th Matrix despite many having completed production prior to this year.*

9.  They Live Among Us

 They Live Among Us is a supernatural web series set and filmed in the gritty underbelly of Los Angeles.

Populated with wistful ghosts, love-stricken fallen angels, insatiable demons, and other ethereal beings masquerading as humans, the series is a 21st century morality tale.

The series centers on supernatural beings who attempt to seduce the forlorn of the city with promises of love,  fulfillment, and the attainment of dreams deferred.

This struggle mirrors series creator Anne Lower's own battle to retain her artistic integrity in the face of the commercial demands of Hollywood.

As a result,  Ms. Lower's writing gives They Live Among Us a beautifully haunting, elegiac sheen that is extremely compelling to watch.

Continued

8.  The True Heroines

What if housewives in the 1950s possessed superpowers?

Welcome to the world of the sensational web series The True Heroines.

A period piece a la Mad Men, but with the comic book sensibility of Heroes, the series follows the post-World War II exploits of Margie, Dottie, and Pearl - three beautiful women who must reconcile their domestic lives with the fact they are super-human.

Unfortunately, the mysterious agency responsible for granting them their unique abilities now wants to permanently silence these extraordinary women.

With its unique premise, charismatic cast, and gorgeous set pieces, The True Heroines is one of the most entertaining and distinct web series currently on the web.

Continued

7.  Osiris The Series

On the surface, Osiris appears to be a straight forward sci-fi action series about the exploits of a man who can not die. 

However, just beneath the surface is a deeply philosophical rumination on life, death, and the true cost of immortality.

When you meet Osiris, you encounter a handsome, brilliant, charming and arrogant man who is used to getting whatever - or whomever he wants.

After living countless lifetimes watching those he loves eventually die, Osiris embraces a purely hedonistic lifestyle he uses to keep others from getting too close.

Complicating his life is a sinister organization intent on capturing him at all costs to learn the secret of his immortality.

Osiris the series is an engaging romp that succeeds in pumping out hot action while not getting bogged down by its own existential themes.

Continued

6.  Wastelander Panda

This Australian import is one of the most extraordinary sci-fi series currently on the web.

Wastelander Panda is set in a post-apocalyptic wasteland akin to Mad Max,  but that isn't the extraordinary part. 

What makes this project unique is its protagonist: a live-action, anthropomorphic, giant, talking panda bear named Arcayus!

Wastelander Panda chronicles the journeys of Arcayus and his companion Rose, as they traverse a desolated landscape laid waste by an unmentioned cataclysm.  

It sounds insane (it is!), but this gorgeously shot series works.  

This ambitious series is epic in scope due in part to stunning cinematography, top-notch special effects, and a fascinating mythology. 

Wastelander Panda is wildly imaginative sci-fi, and a blast to watch.

Continued

5.  00c6

 00c6  is an entirely Chinese production, and is a still undiscovered sci-fi gem.  I'm betting that won't be the case for long.

The series envisions a dystopian, haunting future for China in which its controversial one-child policies have resulted in the decimation of the female population.  

The resulting social upheaval hasthrown the country into a dark age.

Men are chosen by lottery to fight to the death in a brutal contest for the right to become temporary companions to the few women remaining.

What makes this series so innovative is its prominent social commentary, as well as  its transmedia components,  which include viral videos and a web site with additional content that can be unlocked.

This project is proof web series can be just as affecting as other, more traditional media.  

00c6's bold vision and unflinching social commentary earn it a place on this list.

Continued

4.  Progress The Series

Progress is an exceptional steampunk web series with a most original premise:  set in an alternate 19th century England, citizens of the empire all have access to the internet - powered by steam!

As theseries opens you are introduced to hacker Oscar Lerwill.

Bored, Oscar accidentally stumblers upon a file uploaded to the internet by one of the most infamous figures in all of history.

Oscar quickly finds himself embroiled in the insane machinations of  a certain Whitechapel terror.

Progress is a visual treat with impressive Victorian sets, costumes, dialogue and visual effects - all with the flamboyant flourishes found only in the steampunk genre.

Armed with its truly original premise and excellent production value, Progress is poised to become a seminal work in the steampunk genre.

Continued

3. Super Knocked Up

What happens when a powerful superhero and his sworn arch-enemy have a baby together after a one-night stand?

You get the smart and hilarious comedy web series Super Knocked Up!

Set against the backdrop of a world where good and evil super-beings are commonplace, you witness two people re-negotiating their relationship and their lives after an unplanned pregnancy.

Though a comedy, there are also more than a few moments of poignancy as Captain Amazing and Darkstar come to terms with their new reality -  being parents.

Brilliantly conceived (pun intended) by creator Jeff Burns, Super Knocked Up is a wonderful blend of comedy, drama, and comic book homage.

Continued

2. HPlus The Digital Series

 HPlus is the epic web series which boasts X-Men director Bryan Singer as an executive producer.  

It'salso the only project on this list produced by a major studio -  the digital entertainment division of Warner Brothers.

However, HPlus' producing pedigree is NOT the reason it's on this list - it's because of its vision and scope.

Set in a near future, most of the world has abandoned cell phones, tablets, and laptops in favor of a new technology that connects the human nervous system directly to the internet.

Now external hardware is unnecessary in order to access the web, make phone calls, or consume streaming video or music.

It seems to be the dawn of a new golden age of technology - until a catastrophic event throws humanity into a new dark age.

Though made exclusively for the web, HPlus is a spectacular showcase of intelligent writing, smart casting, and production value that easily matches anything you would see on television or in the theater.

Continued

1. Heroes Of The North

 What if the characters in a superhero comic book literally came to life?

They would probably look a lot like the costumed adventurers that populate the universe of Heroes Of The North, an ambitious transmedia project that includes novels, comic books - and the crown jewel - a dynamic, action-packed web series.

Produced and set in Canada, the web series follows a group of superheroes charged by the government to keep the peace, and protect the nation from threats to security both foreign as well as domestic.

Every aspect of this project features production value that looks as if millions of dollars were attributed to the budget.

The far more impressive reality is Heroes Of The North is independently produced and financed. 

This is a powerful testament to the talent, passion, and dedication of the producers, writers, cast and crew.

The plotting is another hallmark, as the ancillary media adds greater depth and complexity to the main storyline. This makes for a truly immersive entertainment experience.

If you love action, intrigue, superheroes and comic books, you will find much to love in Heroes Of The North.

Continued

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There you have it,  the complete listing of top 19 sci-fi web series of 2013.

Each of these projects represent the tip of the iceberg in exciting science fiction being made for the web.  

They are part of a growing vanguard of visionary creators who are  blazing a new trail in entertainment with electrifying filmmaking free from the constraints of traditional media - and sci-fi  fans everywhere are the beneficiaries. 

So please support these innovative filmmakers in any - and every -  way you can!

Wishing you a happy and prosperous 2014,

Rod Faulkner

Founder, The 7th Matrix

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Top 19 Sci-Fi Web Series of 2013 Part One

Sci-Fi Web Series Are The Future

 A few decades ago, science fiction (sci-fi) was a genre treated like a bastard stepchild by almost every studio and network in Hollywood.

For example, the original Star Trek  series was always on the verge of cancellation, but Gene Roddenberry's force-of-personality kept the series on air for three ground-breaking seasons before finally being cancelled by NBC.

It wasn't until years later in syndication did the show reach iconic status, spawning hit spinoff series and blockbuster motion pictures.

The fact of the matter is, Hollywood suits still don't quite get sci-fi - or how the genre can powerfully connect to fans in a visceral way few others can match.

 The Web To The Rescue!

Thank god for the web.

Many talented filmmakers fed up with  the traditional network and studio system are using the web as a viable alternative to bring their unique visions to life. 

With recent technological advances, many of these independently financed and produced projects feature production values that rival content produced by Hollywood.

These sci-fi projects also feature original concepts and themes - unlike Tinseltown, which is obsessed with spewing out a continuous river of uninspired sequels, reboots, and remakes.

All in an effort to strangle every ounce of profit out of once compelling stories.

The web truly is the new frontier for exciting, innovative and fresh science fiction.

For that very reason, I am very pleased to present The 7th Matrix list of the top 20 sci-fi web series of 2013.

Please note, many of these projects were produced in previous years, but all were discovered and featured on the site in 2013.

These web series feature a special blend of compelling premise, exceptional production value, style, and vision that sets them apart from the rest.

So strap yourself in, and prepare to enter worlds fantastic with part one of our top 20  sci-fi web series listing! 

19. Guides The Web Series

 Imagine if the greatest, most enlightened humans to ever walk the earth weren't human at all?  

Instead, what if they were highly evolved, benevolent aliens vainly trying to get backwater Earth to catch up with the rest of the galaxy?

This is the premise behind one of the most funny, witty science fiction comedies of the year.

What struck me most about Guides is while it tickles your funny bone, it  also sucker punches you with cutting insights about the human condition.

Continued

18. Dark Pool

When Dark Pool opens, you are introduced to up-and-coming executive Jim Krall.

Jim seems to have it all: a lucrative career, gorgeous wife, and adorable young daughter. 

However, his world descends into a parent's worst nightmare when his daughter is abducted right before his eyes.

As Jim goes on a desperate search for his missing daughter,  we soon discover all in his life is not what it seems.  

In fact, he and his daughter are at the center of a power struggle between shadowy entities that can literally bend time and space to their will.

Dark Pool is a compelling mystery that slowly unfolds to reveal at its heart a grand, sci-fi adventure.

Continued

17.  Voyage Trekkers

Voyage Trekkers is an unabashed satire of a certain iconic science fiction franchise - and it's laugh-out-loud funny.

Set in the distant future, the series chronicles the adventures of the worst starship in the Galactic Union the GSV Remarkable.

Watch as the dashing, yet moronic, Captain Sunstrike and his long-suffering crew head warp-speed into new heights of incompetency as they traverse the galaxy.

If you enjoyed the cult classic 1999 comedy film Galaxy Quest, you most definitely will find much to enjoy in Voyage Trekkers.

Continued

16. The Silent City

 The Silent City is a captivating post-apocalyptic tale filmed in real abandoned spaces in New York City.

Series creator Rubidium Wu was inspired to create the project after witnessing an eerily empty New York City after it had been evacuated during Hurricane Irene in 2011.

The Silent City follows the journey of a mysterious man known only as Nameless, portrayed with magnetic appeal by Eric Stafford.

As Nameless wanders the blasted cityscape, he stumbles upon another survivor as well as a terrifying, relentless danger.

This project deserves far more attention and acclaim than it has received mainly due to its stellar production value, gripping narrative, and outstanding cast performances.

Continued

15. Abigail Original Series

What would you do if one day you discovered your entire life is a lie?

This is exactly what happens to the titular Abigail - a young woman whose entire life is thrown into chaos when she is held hostage by a mysterious man with deadly secrets.

What makes Abigail  extraordinary is the both the performance of lead actress Meghan Moonan, as well the highly stylized look of the series.

Abigail is asci-fi, action-adventure mystery that will keep you riveted.

Continued

14. Aidan 5

Aidan 5  is an intriguing mix of film noir and hard sci-fi.

The premise is extremely compelling: a man must solve the murder of his own clones.

However, what truly makes this projectstand out is its visual style. 

Filmed entirely in black and white, almost all of the sets are highly detailed illustrations seamlessly integrated with live actors.

Together, these elements form an aesthetic truly unique in the digital space. It's as if a graphic novel has suddenly come to life.

Continued

13. Journey Quest

Journey Quest earns a place on this list of 2013's best not only because it revels in being a good, old-fashioned, quest-based fantasy adventure, but also because of the innovative way it's produced.

Produced by Zombie Orpheus Entertainment (ZOE), Journey Quest relies on its fans for support, instead of network or studio backing.

The reason for this is stated explicitly in ZOE's mission statement:  No Studio, No Network, No Cancellation.

Being solely dependent on fan support for financial as well as creative feedback, Journey Quest producers strive to deliver exactly the kind of entertainment their target audience wants - which is imperative if  the series is to continue.

Continued

12. BAMF Girls Club

What would happen if the most badass heroines from pop culture were domiciled in one house similar to a Big Brother style reality show?

That ingenious premise is behind the smart and funny web series BAMF Girls Club.

Created  by the comedy masterminds of Comediva, BAMF Girls Club imagines  Buffy Summers, Hermione Granger, Katniss Everdeen, Lisbeth Salander, Michonne - and oh yeah, Bella Swann -  as reality show participants who must try to peacefully co-exist under one roof.

Hint: It doesn't go well - with hilarious results!

Continued

11. Dr0ne

In the near future, highly advanced humanoid drones will fight our wars for us.

But what happens when one goes AWOL?

This is the story of Dr0ne, a high-octane, sci-fi action series starring respected character actor Lance Reddick -  best known for his role on Fringe as Agent Phillip Broyles.

While Dr0ne doesn't disappoint in the action department, the plot is just as compelling. The series raises timely questions about the morality of using drone technology in modern warfare.

Continued

10. Neibauer

This sci-fi detective story earns its place on our list primarily due to its premise: In the near future, technology has been developed that allows homicides to be solved by "rebooting" murder victims.  

Complete with a hard-boiled detective, and a murder mystery with twists a-plenty, Neibauer pays homage to film noir classics such as The Maltese Falcon.

Continued

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So there you have it, part one of our top 19 list. Please find out more about each of these extraordinary series - and support the projects you enjoy.

Your valuable feedback is the only way these pioneering filmmakers will be able to continue to produce more exciting work.

And that is a win-win situation for all of us.

The rest of our top 19 listing will be published next week!

Click here for Part Two of our list of sensational series.

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Why 'The World Of Steam' May Be The Best Steampunk Web Series To Date

The World Of Steam is the extraordinary steampunk anthology web series from the mind of creator/director Matt Yang King.

Born out of love for the genre, as well as classic science fiction anthology series such as The Twilight Zone, Mr. King decided to bring his unique vision to the screen.

After having launched a wildly successful crowdsourcing campaign last year, the first episode of the web anthology, The Clockwork Heart, was released on November 20, 2013.

The result is the debut of an impressive work of unusual emotional depth, elegance, and power.

The Clockwork Heart tells the heart-wrenching story of Hieronymous Smythe (Scott Folsom) a mechanical genius who is grieving the death of his beloved bride Mary (Gail Folsom). 

Unable to accept her passing, Hieronymous decides to build an exact clockwork duplicate of Mary.

The results are not at all what the inventor expects.

The Clockwork Heart is a disarmingly moving tale about the affects love and grief have on the heart.

A notable hallmark of this episode is how the emotional beats of the story are effectively relayed without much dialogue.

The acting and dynamic visuals together serve to express the sense of love, longing and loss inherent in the story.

Words are not really necessary.

For example, the history of the couple's love affair is told via a gorgeously rendered silhouetted diorama.

What ultimately sets this project apart from other terrific steampunk web series is the stellar production team assembled by Mr. King.

The roster reads like a who's who of talented creatives including:

• Bear McCreary, the lauded composer of such prestigious projects as Battlestar Galactica and The Walking Dead

• Peyton Skelton, the director of photography responsible for the visual style of major Hollywood properties such as Grey's Anatomy and Scream 2

• Lisa Lassek,  the prolific editor whose previous credits include hit films such as The Cabin In The Woods and mega-blockbuster The Avengers

However I would be remiss if I failed to mention the beautiful set, prop and costume designs of Scott and Mary Folsom - who remarkably serve double-duty as the episode's leads.

All of the superb production elements combine to make it seem as if the story sprang to life directly from the pages of a Jules Verne novel.

Experience this intriguing new world for yourself by watching The Clockwork Heart, episode one of The World Of Steam:

I'm not ashamed to admit I was deeply moved by this episode, and can't wait to revisit this captivating universe.

After making such an auspicious debut, I'm confident I won't be the only passenger waiting for transport back to The World Of Steam.

To watch all future episodes of the anthology, visit the series' channel on YouTube: TheWorldOfSteam. Also, please subscribe to the channel to show the filmmakers your support.

For more detailed information about the production, check out the official series website TheWorldOfSteam.com.

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The Four Players: A Dark Live-Action Adaptation of Super Mario Brothers

In 1985, Nintendo released Super Mario Brothers in North America. Its flagship franchise took the then fledging video gaming industry by storm.

With 8-bit surreal landscapes populated with a brilliant blue sky, white clouds, verdant plants, cartoony adversaries, and the two plucky protagonists,  Super Mario Brothers became synonymous with family-friendly electronic entertainment.

Fast forward to the present day, and the franchise has gotten an astonishing makeover.

Written and directed by Evan Daugherty, The Four Players reframes the backstories of Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, and her devoted courtier Toad in a series of four live-action, dark and gritty cinematic shorts.

While the concept  may sound very dubious on paper, the execution is a brilliant success.

I attribute this accomplishment to:

• the exceptionally smart script

• gorgeous production designs by Holly Conrad and Jacob Thomsen

• sensational cinematography 

• acknowledgement of iconic gameplay hallmarks in the form of clever easter eggs

In my opinion, the standout among these exceptional shorts is The Soldier, which looks like a forgotten Guillermo del Toro movie!

All four installments are available for viewing below.

The Fixer (Mario)  One man decides he can't let things remain broken any longer:

The Addict (Luigi)  receives a reminder of his past that forces him to rethink his present:

The Star (Princess Peach) contemplates happier times while suffering at the hands of her captors:

The Soldier (Toad) takes desperate action for the sake of his kingdom:

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Border Guardians Of Ackernon - The Epic Fantasy Web Series

I love epic fantasy just as much as I love science fiction.  

There is just something about stories of  mystical kingdoms populated with mages, witches, royalty, heroes and diabolical villains that adds up to the sweetest escapism for me.

Hence my joy upon discovering Border Guardians Of Ackernon (BGOA), a 2010 12-part epic fantasy web series created by Paul Best, Laura Olson, and produced by Wolf's Head Productions.

BGOA is set in the medieval, tranquil realm of Ackernon.

As the series opens,  the serenity of the kingdom is threatened by the resurgence of a mortal enemy known as The Pert.

The Pert is a hostile nation intent on conquering Ackernon by breaching the centuries-old mystical wall which separates the two kingdoms.

The realm's main line of defense is the clandestine body known as The University.

The University recruits and trains children who show promise in the mystical arts,  scholarship, and combat - preparing them to one serve as border guardians of the great wall.

BGOA is an ambitious project, and it shows.  The series hallmarks are:

• an intriguing plot

• gorgeous cinematography

• impressive sets and costumes

• a lush musical score that is among the best I've heard of any web series

The project does have its faults, chief among them:

• uneven acting

• instances of stilted, cliche´d dialogue

• some odd, disjointed editing choices 

Still despite it's flaws, BGOA is enjoyable, and looks quite polished.  

Only one season has been produced so far, and it's unclear if more episodes will ever be made. 

Despite this, BGOA is certainly worth viewing for fans of epic fantasy due to its ambition, overall production value, and originality.

Watch the series trailer here:

All first season episodes are available for viewing on Vimeo.

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Horror Hotel The Web Series - Where Weirdness Checks In

Horror Hotel is a new anthology web series heavily influenced by classics such as The Twilight Zone and The Outer Limits. 

Created by Ricky Hess, Horror Hotel is an eclectic mix of sci-fi, horror and film noir set against the backdrop of a seedy motel on a road to nowhere.

The first season is comprised of six episodes. Each one is a morality tale populated with weird, quirky characters who live on society's fringe. 

Like most anthologies of any media, Horror Hotel''s main strength is also its weakness. 

Being an anthology, the series is episodic instead of serialized in nature. This is a positive, because you are able to fully invest in characters and plots that resonate with you - without the burden of deciphering a complicated, overarching story.

However, some episodes are narratively stronger than others.  This unevenness serves to lessen the full dramatic impact of the whole.

Still,  this fault is ultimately overcome by excellent production value, and quirky characters you won't soon forget. 

Standout episodes include: 

•  Guillotine  A beautiful starlet is willing to pay any price for a mystical artifact rumored to make any  woman irresistible

• Invader A neurotic woman fears another motel resident is an alien spying on earth as a prelude to invasion.  Shot in gorgeous black and white, this episode hearkens back to the paranoid, post-World War II science fiction movies of the 1950s.   

To get a feel for life as a guest at the Horror Hotel, watch the season one trailer: 

 The entire first season is now available on YouTube: Horror Hotel. 

If you are looking for a genre web series that is truly unique,  pay a visit to Horror Hotel.  Its unique blend of sci-fi, horror, and, well, weirdness is certain to be just what the doctor ordered.

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Collider The Web Series: One Scientist Races To Stop The Apocalypse

Collider The Web Series is one component of an ambitious sci-fi saga being told across several different media including:

• comic books

• mobile apps

• a web site

• and an independent feature length film debuting in 2014

Independently produced by beActive entertainment, Collider is the story of how secret experiments conducted at the CERN laboratories Hadron Collider threatens the very planet itself.

In the eight-part web series, which serves as a prequel to the feature film, you meet Peter Ansay (Iain Robertson), a brilliant physicist based in Geneva, Switzerland.

Peter's research leads him to believe the experiments at the CERN collider could end all life on earth. 

As the web series opens,  you witness his desperate attempts to convince a journalist for an influential newspaper to run his story. 

Let me warn you now, Collider isn't your typical sci-fi web series. There are no futuristic set pieces, very few explosions, and no aliens. 

In fact, almost the entire series takes place in Peter's hotel room. His only interaction with the outside world is via phone or email.

This is strictly a one man set piece, but it is very engrossing due to the superb performance of Mr. Robertson and the sharp script. 

As the series progresses, you witness a brilliant man pushed to the edge of sanity.

Professionally discredited because of the radicalism of his theories,  you are drawn into his isolation, despair, and desperation as he seeks validation for his research he believes will save the earth.

With his warnings falling on deaf ears, Peter decides he must take matters into his own hands - a fateful decision which becomes the flashpoint for the action in the forthcoming Collider  motion picture. 

Because of its unusual narrative structure, Collider The Web Series greatly benefits from a great script written by Catriona Scott, crisp direction by Nuno Bernardo, skillful acting by Iain Robertson, and a brief running time (each episode is between three to four minutes in length).

Despite some subpar CGI sequences, the project achieves its purpose in eliciting intrigue for the explosive events to unfold in the feature film.

Watch the  first episode of Collider The Web Series below: 

The complete web series is currently available on YouTube:  ColliderWebSeries.

The trailer for the 2014 full-length feature film is also now available: 

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