Ahead of the inaugural Melbourne Web Series Festival on 20 July, we’re profiling all 30 series that made the Official Selection list. Next up is “Out With Dad” created and directed by Jason Leaver.
Filmed in Toronto, Canada Out With Dad, is a series about A teenage girl, Rose and her single father. The story focuses on a time when Rose is struggling to come to terms with her own sexuality. Her dad tries his hardest to make it easier for her but sometimes he tries a little too hard. Together, they navigate the challenges of dating, love, homophobia and heartbreak. All he really wants is for her to be happy, proud and Out With Dad.
What inspired your series?
I had a dream one night in which I became a single father. The next day I was musing, what would it be like to be a single dad? I thought about all sorts of growing-up things. Like teaching how to tie shoelaces, first day of kindergarten, first day of high school. Then I wondered, what would it be like if she came out to me? Obviously I’d be very supportive. I then began thinking about the challenges she might have to face being an out teenager in high school, challenges I never had to face as a straight guy. From there a story started telling itself. I began researching and writing right way.
How do you reach your audience?
We’ve been fortunate to connect with several lesbian pop-culture web sites who have been very supportive of our show. We established quite the fan-base thanks to them. From there, it’s a matter of keeping everyone engaged.
Why make a web series?
I love this medium. I don’t know of any other storytelling medium of motion picture & sound that enables you to connect so deeply with your audience. But it’s more than that, I also love that I didn’t have to ask anyone permission to make it. With television and film, there are gatekeepers every step of the way. With the web, you just make it and share.
Out With Dad on the web:
Official Site: www.outwithdad.com
Twitter: @OutWithDad
Facebook: www.facebook.com/outwithdad
YouTube: www.youtube.com/OutWithDad
Creator/Writer/Director Jason Leaver: @HeyBishop
Melbourne WebFest is on July 20, and tickets are on sale now. Keep up to date with the festival on Twitter: @MelbWebFest
La Trobe University is an official partner of Melbourne WebFest
