USA Network to Spotlight Quintessential American Stories

NEW YORK: As part of the next phase of USA Network’s Character Project, the broadcaster has teamed up with RSA Films and Ridley and Tony Scott to commission eight filmmakers to create short films that explore the theme of American character.

The curated films will be featured online in a digital hub at characterproject.usanetwork.com, and will also be available via FOD, iTunes, mobile platforms, syndicated widgets and social media. USA will also exhibit the films in select markets in screening pods. Lexus has signed on as the presenting partner for Character Project on behalf of the CT Hybrid.

The Character Project directors were selected by USA, RSA Films and the Scotts. Directors R.J. Cutler, Jeff Feuerzeig and Lauri Faggioni will examine the topic of American character through documentary, while Bryan Poyser, Caskey Ebeling, Tomas Pena/boolab, Jakob Daschek and Amie Steir will create fictional pieces. All are focused around three quintessential American principals: progress, connection and passion.

"The beauty of independent film is that it offers the opportunity to tell stories with both personal significance and universal resonance," said Alexandra Shapiro, the senior VP of brand marketing and digital for USA Network. "Through the Character Project short films we celebrate not only the unique perspectives of the filmmakers and characters, but the American experience in all its richness and diversity. We are proud to partner with RSA Films and the Scotts to bring these compelling stories to life and share them with the world."

"As storytellers, it is part of our DNA to share the stories that make people interesting through the lens of our unmatched roster of directors," added Ridley Scott. "USA is an ideal partner because they also specialize in bringing to light the distinct tales of unique characters."