Errr... this was not *exactly* what I asked for...

Remember when I called out for a Pagan web-series and even described some of the characters I would like to see? I think MTV and I are somewhat on the same wavelength because they just put out a national casting call for an episode of True Life, about youth who are 'occult enthusiasts'. According to their ad, they are looking for:

"...'anyone who practices Wicca, Satanism, alchemy, astrology, ESP or other mystical sciences' or those who feel they can 'tap into unseen spiritual forces.' Those who are interested in the study of 'the Kabbalah or Esoteric Christianity' are also invited to participate; the show is presently seeking males and females ages 17-29 who take their occult practices seriously, regardless of societal views. The casting call will remain open for a one year period and closes on Sept. 10, 2013."

All but the first and last quotation marks are theirs. True Life, by the way--for those as unfamiliar with it as I am--is:

"...a reality-based television series first established in the late 1990s; the show is presented in documentary fashion and depicts different people and lifestyles; According to MTV’s website, "True Life" is a show “narrated solely by its characters” and the producers strive to offer shows that are “unusual” or “remarkable.” “True Life” is an Emmy award winning television series that allows those depicted to share their lives and their personal stories with the world."

I wanted to say I am unsure about this idea but truth be told, I am actively against the idea of MTV bringing any Pagans to my T.V. screen. Even if they try to bring this to the people without going 'Oooohhh! Look! A witch!', I doubt they will succeed.

Of course, I should not judge. I have never seen an episode of True Life. It will also depend greatly on the people who sign up for this how awful it will be. If some of our Elders sign up, this might actually be pretty darn epic. If you are interested in signing up, you first need to fork up $9.95, though, because you need an account at Reality Wanted.

I would love some feedback on this show from viewers. Is this something we should be excited about? Dread? Ignore? Would you ever sign up for something like this? If so, why?

• Friday, September 14, 2012
  MTV Paganism web-series

What if... Pagans had their own web-series?

I have been enjoying the wonderful world of web-series for a couple of days now and it got me thinking; there are web-series for every minority you can think of so why don't we have one? If we do, please let me know in the comments and I will eat these words for tomorrow's breakfast. Seriously, though, there are (NSFW) web-series about super heroes, people with a disability, geeks, video games, lesbians, gays, washed out actors, you name it. Where are the Pagans?

A web-series is a series of short episodes about a certain topic or focussing on a specific person or group, created specifically for viewing on the internet. With all the diversity and the many stereotypes we either embrace or feel the need to debunk, we could surely make a good web-series? Here are a couple of proposals for those with the ability to act, some extra funds, time and a camera:

• [Reality-based] A teen finds an esoteric bookshop and picks up a Neo-Wiccan 101 book, leading to a journey through the many Traditions under the Pagan banner with each episode focussing on a different path.
• [Dramatized reality or minor supernatural] A young person finds their family's Book of Shadows and in initiated into the rites of their family. We see them dealing with their newfound path in life while keeping up with school, friends and a changed worldview. The amount of supernatural might rely on the budget.
• [Reality-based] A sort series where different (fictional) people are followed while attending the same Pagan festival. Can be humorous, as Pagan festivals tend to bring a nice erm... variety of people.
• [Reality-based] We follow the meetings and life of a coven/grove/etc. as they go about their religion and life. Could also be a focus on a single Pagan household.
• [Humorous reality] A series that focusses on Pagan stereotypes, one at a time, showing what these stereotypes would actually look like if they were (excessively) true. Broomstick flying, Devil worship, wanting to live in renaissance times, tree hugging, etc.
• [Supernatural] a group of Pagans come together to battle [insert forces of evil]. Priests and Priestesses are backed by their Gods, Witches bring Magick to the table, druids rally the powers of Nature, etc.

Can you think of more Pagan web-series concepts? Is a Pagan web-series even a good idea?

• Thursday, August 30, 2012
  this is not a real post web-series What if...?