OUTtv Acquires Returnable Drama They Them Us from New Scripted Indie

Scriptwriter and journalist Jane Marlow and producer Virginia Orr have launched Donut Films, a cross-platform production company focusing on drama and comedy, and sold their first project to OUTtv.

The 8×30-minute returnable drama They Them Us has been picked up by the Canadian LGBTQ+ television network and streaming service OUTtv. The show is an intense relationship drama set among a group of twentysomething friends who are exploring their sexuality, identity and gender. Set against the background of a women’s football team, season one follows Suze, a gay woman who is making the journey to a non-binary identity.

They Them Us has been selected as one of ten in-development projects to be screened at France’s Série Series festival this month.

Marlow said: “They Them Us is a story that reflects how young adults in 2020 are exploring their sexuality and gender identity in more detail and more freely than previous generations. We wanted to make a show with high emotional stakes that is hooky and returnable and also authentic. While They Them Us speaks to a specific experience, its appeal lies in the universal theme of identity. Who am I? Where do I belong?”

Orr added: “Donut Films formalizes the success that Jane and I achieved with our short film Take Me Back and which looks set to continue with They Them Us. Our creative and business skills dovetail well—Jane’s TV knowledge and scriptwriting experience complement my expertise in transforming creative businesses into sound business propositions. I think the deal with OUTtv and the backing of Série Series show that it’s a formula that works, both creatively and commercially.”