The creation of a television series is often a complex and challenging process, and 'Now Apocalypse' is no exception. This American comedy series, which aired on Starz in 2019, was the brainchild of Gregg Araki and Karley Sciortino. Despite its short run, the series left a mark with its unique blend of comedy and surrealism. Let's delve into the production journey of 'Now Apocalypse' and the hurdles it faced along the way.
Conceptualization and Development
The idea for 'Now Apocalypse'
was born from the creative minds of Gregg Araki and Karley Sciortino. Araki, known for his distinctive style, was inspired by the potential of television to tell unconventional stories. He teamed up with Sciortino to develop a script that would explore themes of love, sex, and fame through the lens of a group of friends in Los Angeles. The series was designed to be a comedic yet thought-provoking exploration of modern life.
In March 2018, Starz announced that it had given 'Now Apocalypse' a series order for a first season consisting of ten episodes. This marked the beginning of an intense production phase, with Araki taking on the roles of director and executive producer, alongside Steven Soderbergh and Gregory Jacobs. The team was determined to bring their vision to life, despite the challenges that lay ahead.
Casting and Filming
Casting for 'Now Apocalypse' was a crucial step in bringing the series to life. In June 2018, it was announced that Avan Jogia, Kelli Berglund, Beau Mirchoff, and Roxane Mesquida would lead the main cast. The series also featured a host of recurring characters, adding depth and diversity to the storyline.
Filming the series was a whirlwind experience, with the entire ten episodes shot in just 40 days. This tight schedule required meticulous planning and coordination from the production team. The single-camera setup used for filming added to the series' unique visual style, capturing the vibrant and chaotic energy of Los Angeles.
Challenges and Cancellation
Despite the creative efforts and dedication of the team, 'Now Apocalypse' faced significant challenges. The series premiered on March 10, 2019, but struggled to find a large audience. On July 26, 2019, Starz announced the cancellation of the series after just one season.
Gregg Araki expressed his disappointment but remained hopeful, stating that he was exploring options to continue the series on other networks. The cancellation was a setback, but it did not diminish the creative achievements of 'Now Apocalypse' and its exploration of contemporary themes.
In conclusion, the making of 'Now Apocalypse' was a testament to the passion and creativity of its creators. While its run was brief, the series remains a unique entry in the world of television, showcasing the potential of storytelling in the modern age.
