The Third Age

November 17, 2009 by Julie

What do magic, mythical gods, and the streets of New York City have in common? You’ll find it all in The Third Age, a webseries which is being launched today by Blip.TV.

Written, directed and shot by Patrick Meaney and Jordan Rennert and produced by Amber Yoder (my daughter), The Third Age has been billed as a “psychedelic remix of classic mythology, telling the story of ordinary people caught up in an eternal war between gods waged on the streets of New York City.”

I love classic mythology, so I was instantly intrigued and happy to have a chance to preview the first seven episodes. A war between gods and realistic scenes of gritty, city streets is definitely a modern twist on an epic story. But the way the story is told is exciting and unique. A god gets kidnapped. A drug dealer finds himself simultaneously hiding from the cops and getting involved in the middle of a struggle between science and magic. Fantasy meets asphalt. I can’t wait to see more.

The Third Age begins with scenes from a laboratory and has an X-Files feel to it, which is excellent. Then we are introduced to the main characters. Christopher Zinone is not your typical drug dealer on the corner—his clients are young and wealthy. But Christopher is depressed and wants to change his ways. Determined that he has made the last drug deal of his life, he heads home one night and meets a beautiful woman who is crying on the street. Her name is Morning. She is far from ordinary.

The laboratory scenes weave into the story well, and this background builds much suspense. We meet a scientist named Jerrod Woolf who had a vision thirty years ago. He dreamed of creating a drug that would one day save the world. Jerrod Woolf’s world of science, the “real” world of Christopher Zinone and the magical world of Morning collide to make for a story that is keeping me on the edge of my seat.

As a person who spends her life writing stories, I am impressed by the richness of the storyline in The Third Age. It is complex, not in a way that is hard to understand, but in a way that makes a fiction writer nod her head and appreciate the sophistication of what these filmmakers are doing. Don’t get hung up on the word “psychedelic.” There’s a very real story here.

The writers of this series respect my intelligence as a viewer and do not bombard me with obvious explanations, as some series do. The characterization of Christopher Zinone is fantastic. He unfolds with details that create a rich blend of character that is much more than meets the eye.

Obviously, I dig well developed characterization and an interesting story. If you’re somebody who reads this site every week, you probably do, too. I also know that many of you enjoy fantasy writing. Of course, there are more elements that make the series excellent. But I’d rather let you check it out. The first season consists of thirteen seven minute episodes, and it will be released weekly, starting today. A second season will follow with thirteen additional episodes.

The series has already been previewed at screening events in New York, including Big Screen, Little Screen and Industry Power Play. It is produced by Respect Films, an independent production company that creates innovative content for the web and traditional media.

You can read about the making of The Third Age by checking out the website HERE. The behind the scenes work is fun to read. You think you have challenges as a poet or a fiction writer? Imagine having to find real locations and good actors for your characters. Then lug around equipment and film them in a way that is professional and true to your vision. Oh, yeah. And do it on a budget. I know the genres aren’t the same, but the physical aspects of film make me really respect what they do.

The Third Age has already received great reviews. Check out one by Tubefilter News HERE. It also tells about Respect Film’s current work with ESPN.

Please take a few minutes to check out episode one of The Third Age HERE and bookmark the page.

I rarely turn on the stupid box (aka the television). But I’ll be clicking on The Third Age every week. The story is a fantastic ride.

Posted in Check It Out, Respect Films, The Third Age | Tagged Amber Yoder, Blip TV, character, characterization, fantasy, film, Jordan Rennert, magic, myth, new media, Patrick Meaney, Respect Films, The Third Age, webseries | 36 Comments

36 Responses

on November 17, 2009 at 8:41 pm Crafty Green poet

It sounds really interesting, I’ll check it out!
on November 17, 2009 at 8:56 pm Julie

Thanks so much for checking it out, Juliet. It’s great to see you. I hope your week is a good one.
on November 17, 2009 at 10:12 pm Annie

Hi Julie,

I just watched Episode 1 of The Third Age. It looks like a quality production, professionally executed. I don’t know anything about webseries, but this one looks to me like it will appeal to a wide audience, including science fiction/fantasy fans, and people who are drawn to the look and feel of innovative music video. I read everyone’s credentials on the Press Kit link, and I’m impressed by the background of everyone involved, including, of course, Amber Yoder.

What I like about Episode 1 is that the visuals and the music are compelling, along with the story line. The intro was a bit bloody for my sensibilities, not fully understanding the context, but once it got going, I appreciated the lead character’s acting, Morning’s interesting face, and her complete trust in this man she’d never met before. I must admit, though, your explanation of the series made it comprehensible to me. I wouldn’t have gotten the story line without it, based on this first episode only. Thank you for letting us know about it! I plan to keep watching.
on November 17, 2009 at 11:21 pm Julie

Thank you, Annie. I was thinking you might enjoy the science fiction/fantasy angle. I think you’ll enjoy the “journey” as the story progresses. One thing I’ve noticed in the first seven episodes is that everyone is either searching or has been searching for something that would equate to peace or happiness.

I would love to see it all in a television series. I’m serious when I say I rarely turn the TV on (except for an occasional old movie). It would be nice to have a “show” to look forward to. I used to love watching X-Files.

Another aspect I enjoyed is the fine acting. I didn’t comment on it in the post, because I don’t feel qualified to review acting, lighting, and that sort of thing (not knowing anything about it). I do know what I like as a viewer. I like how it isn’t overdone or overly dramatic. Great applause for the actors.

Thanks again, Annie. I appreciate that you took the time to check it all out!
on November 18, 2009 at 3:31 am ichabod

Hi Julie;

I followed this link
from another blog
whose author weaves
a mighty fine tale

i am not much of a writer
or poet
but i see it here

when i bump into
the home of creativity
and enchantment

i like to leave
a little thank you
so you know
how i feel

****************************************************

Hello ichabod and thank you! I do appreciate the good words. That is awesome. I enjoy meeting new folks, and it’s a pleasure to meet you. -Julie
on November 18, 2009 at 11:50 am TWM

Bookmarked it, I can’t watch it right now but will do so later.

******************************************************

Thanks, WM. I appreciate it much. Have a great week:) -Julie
on November 18, 2009 at 12:51 pm Yousei Hime

Having no incoming TV (cable, satellite, etc.) and still relying on dial-up, my chances of watching this are slim, at least for now. BUT . . . what a proud Momma you must be. It sounds wonderful. Have you read/are you familiar with the Percy Jackson and the Olympians series? The Lightning Thief movie comes out next February. I read them and really enjoyed them, even though they are for kids. My thirteen year old boy devoured them; in fact, I couldn’t read the next book until he’d read it first, his rule. Best wishes to your daughter.

****************************************************

Hello, Yousei. Thanks so much for the good wishes. I know what you mean about dialup! I’ve only had a decent connection for the past year and a few months. When we moved, we got one of those cheap bundle deals for internet and TV. I had never even had cable TV until then (I didn’t want it). But it’s nice to be able to get online. If I ever disappear, it’s probably because I can’t pay the bill. Ha! Ha!

No, I haven’t heard of the Percy Jackson and the Olympians series, but I’ll look it up. I love it when thirteen-year-old boys are reading! I worked in youth services at a library many moons ago, and I targeted that group with comics and graphic novels, etc. I like your son’s rule:) Have a great week! -Julie
on November 18, 2009 at 3:00 pm jack sender

The mother must be doing a great job.

I’m pleased for your happiness, Julie.
on November 18, 2009 at 6:07 pm Julie

Thank you, Jack! I’m trying to act all serious in this post, but I’m really about to burst into proud mama songs. I was so young when she was born and always terrified I’d do the wrong thing. But I can’t take credit for all of it. She has always been amazing and far ahead of her time.

If she gets rich, then I can sit in the woods all day and never have to work. Ha! Ha! Just kidding. I wouldn’t really sponge off my kid. But I just might never leave the woods.

Thanks again, Jack. You always make my day brighter.
on November 18, 2009 at 7:07 pm Yousei Hime

Here’s some info on the series:

Percy Jackson & the Olympians series, by Riordan, Rick
The Lightning Thief is the first book in the series.

Summary: Twelve-year-old Percy Jackson learns he is a demigod, the son of a mortal woman and Poseidon, god of the sea. His mother sends him to a summer camp for demigods where he and his new friends set out on a quest to prevent a war between the gods.

Other books in the series:
The Sea of Monsters
The Titan’s Curse
The Battle of the Labyrinth
The Last Olympian

*************************************************

Thanks, Yousei! That sounds great! I’m headed to the library in a few days and will see if they have it. That sounds like every kid’s dream (and by kid, I mean even big ones like me). It’s also a good way to introduce kids to mythology. Thanks much. -J
on November 18, 2009 at 8:18 pm signed .............bkm

Julie,

As Joseph Campbell once state “we live in the myth” — our lives, our joys, our sorrows are all blessings lined with lessons and magic.

Thank you for the magic of your words.

bkm
on November 18, 2009 at 8:53 pm Julie

What a good quote, Barbara. Thank you! It’s great to see you.
on November 18, 2009 at 10:13 pm Annie

Hi Julie,
You asked about my library conference, and I just saw your comment here about graphic novels. That’s what the all day conference was all about! When I find the time, I’ll be writing a post. We heard from artists, writers and educators about the benefits of graphic novels and comic books. I never thought of the amount of science in certain superhero comics, and how they can be used to get children to think in terms of science concepts, if you allow them to develop their own characters and story line. The Percy Jackson series is extremely popular at my library, from upper elementary school through middle school.

****************************************************

Hi, Annie. That is so wild! We must have been on the same brain wavelength today. When I first started the graphic novel and “comics” section, it was met with resistance by some adults. But I think the naysayers were wrong. It really got some kids reading, especially boys. Until that time, the number of teen boys at our library was dismal. Comics are great. Plus, I was sneaky and slipped in some classic books. They read those, too. Hee hee. I had to be careful not to be too obvious. Some classic novels are also out in graphic novel format, and they liked those, too. Plus, they started reading poetry. I saw a big increase in reading with that one corner of the library. A local comic book store was also great about donating free ones, because I had purchased so much from them.

Thanks for the info. I will definitely check it out. I still know lots of younger readers. And thanks again for checking out The Third Age. -Julie

I just thought of something and had to add a P.S. How on earth could I not mention Respect Film’s documentary on Grant Morrison, the comic book great, in this conversation? Ha! Ha! Big duh on my part. Check out this link under their current projects:

http://www.respectfilms.com/currentprojects.html
on November 18, 2009 at 11:00 pm Brigindo

Way to go Amber! Very cool. I totally enjoyed Episode One and will keep watching. I love myths and stories shot in NYC, so its a no-brainer for me.
on November 18, 2009 at 11:43 pm Julie

Hi, Brigindo! It’s always great to see you, sis. I do love those city scenes. I don’t know anything about film or lighting, but I know what I like. They have done a fantastic job with the way it looks. I was also impressed when I read about how they created the laboratory scenes. So innovative and creative!

I think you’ll really love the story as it progresses. The fantasy part of the show is awesome, too. Thanks so much for watching!
on November 19, 2009 at 1:42 am Amber

Hey Mom,

Thanks for the glowing review, and thanks to all your readers who checked it out! We’ve gotten over 1,000 views in 1 day, so hopefully this momentum will follow through the rest of the show. I’m glad you enjoyed it, and hopefully some of your readers will too! Love you lots!
~Amber
on November 19, 2009 at 2:12 am Julie

Hey, Amber! Wow! Over 1,000 is great in just one day. I think it will just keep going from there. A lot of people like to e-mail me, and I’ve gotten tons of feedback just today.

My readers are so cool, and I’m sure they’ll spread the word, too. Things tend to pick up around here toward the weekend when folks have more time. But I have noticed that my numbers went through the roof today. I’m sure it’s from The Third Age and not from poetry…ha! ha!

Love You so much! -Mama
on November 19, 2009 at 2:14 am karen

Jules – I’ll be back to watch, I promise! I do love sci-fi and fantasy. I don’t watch TV either, and I’ve never heard of a web series, but with 7 minute episodes, I think it’s doable.

Congratulations to Amber for her work on this and to you for your obvious and well-deserved pride in your daughter!

I’m off to babyland until Sunday. See you by then.

*****************************************************

Thanks so much, Karen. Have fun with that beautiful baby!! -Julie
on November 19, 2009 at 3:55 am (dan)onymous

julie, i don’t usually like fantasy or myth, but i just watched third age and i love it. i think it will have a wide audience. great job and two thumbs way up. i will watch every week.
on November 19, 2009 at 4:01 am Julie

Hi, dan. I’m glad you watched it and loved it! I think it could really take off. I was thinking the same thing about the broad audience. It has a lot of elements that could appeal to a lot of different people. Thanks so much for the good words. It’s great to see you!!
on November 19, 2009 at 7:33 pm joaquin

ummmm, proud mamma? with good reason – how exciting for her to spread her wings, and for you to watch her fly. of course i’ll be checking it out…
on November 19, 2009 at 7:42 pm Julie

Hey, Joaquin! I just got your book today! How awesome that it came on a Thursday. It’s so beautiful. I’m headed out to the woods with it this evening, along with my reading file. Uh, that sounded weird, didn’t it? Anyway, thanks so much!

Yes, I’m trying really hard not to be gushy mama, at least in the post. It’s hard not to do, and I hope everyone involved in the making will forgive me for that. It’s a mama thing.

But the reason I’m trying not to “gush” is because they are professionals. I’m so impressed with what they have done, especially on a budget. It is excellent work. Thanks for watching, Joaquin.
on November 22, 2009 at 12:27 am Trina

I’ve been reading your blog long enough to respect your artistic appreciations and I’ve been a fan of “urban fantasy” for a long time so I checked out Episode One. It’s a great “hook” and I can’t wait to see what comes next! I also tweeted about it and hope you don’t mind that I linked to this entry as well.
on November 22, 2009 at 4:24 am Julie

Hi, Trina. Thank you so much! I appreciate the link, and I’ll pass that news along to Amber, too. She’s been working hard on promotion and is very happy for all links and tweets.

I’m also appreciative that you took the time to watch. “Hook” is a good description. I had a chance to preview the first seven episodes, so I have a little advantage as to what’s coming with the storyline. But there’s a lot more I have yet to see and can’t wait.

Thanks again for your support. Have a beautiful weekend:)
on November 22, 2009 at 5:02 pm christine

Julie, Amber is one talented lady, just like her mama. I love it! The story line sounds fantastic. I’m going to send it on to my sons, who are into SF, mythology, film, etc…
on November 22, 2009 at 6:43 pm Julie

Thanks so much, Christine! I’ll let Amber know you’re passing it along, too. We appreciate that very much. I’m so impressed with what this generation is doing with film and new media. Not that I know anything about it, other than what I learn from Amber…ha! But I do know stories, and I have enjoyed this one very much.

I hope you’re having a great weekend:)
on November 22, 2009 at 9:30 pm JR

I’ll definitely give it a watch (and bookmark it). I’m all about plot and dialogue. Sounds really cool. Also, I’ll pass this information on to others.
on November 22, 2009 at 11:45 pm Julie

Hello, JR and thanks very much! I appreciate that you’re taking the time to do that. Word of mouth is the best publicity there is. As a fiction writer, I’m sure you’ll appreciate those details. I sure do enjoy your stories, too. Have a good one!
on November 25, 2009 at 5:37 pm Annie

Hi Julie,
I just watched Episode 2! It continues to be intriguing, but I’d love to be able to watch the current seven episodes all at once. On their web site, I read about the opportunities The Third Age has opened up for the participants, including Amber, and the invitation into the Writer’s Guild of America. I know you’re a happy Mom!
on November 25, 2009 at 6:40 pm Julie

Hi, Annie! Thank you!! Yes, The Third Age is so awesome! The character of Morning really comes to life as the story proceeds. I was lucky to be able to see the first seven episodes all together, but I can’t wait to see beyond that.

Amber told me about the Writer’s Guild invitation, and I am thrilled for them. That’s impressive. They’ve been getting very good reviews.

Please excuse my slowness this week. Holiday travels are keeping me hopping and I’ll probably be away from the computer for a bit. I’m working on a new post now and will continue to visit everyone between travels. I really appreciate your continued support. And thanks so much for checking out Episode 2 of The Third Age!

Have a beautiful week, Annie.
on December 1, 2009 at 3:59 am Gel

WOW! Congrats to your daughter Amber! And to you, proud mom! So exciting and I will check it out.
on December 1, 2009 at 4:26 am Julie

Hi, Gel. Please keep in touch when you have the time. I’ll miss you, but I am very happy for your new ventures. Feel free to keep my e-mail address. I’d love to hear what you’re doing in the future.

Thanks so much for checking out The Third Age. A new episode goes up tomorrow, and every Tuesday for a total of twenty six episodes. I can’t wait to see them all!
on December 9, 2009 at 11:03 pm Kimberli

Correct me if I’m wrong, but that appears to be groundbreaking work (I’m so behind on things, I may not know. Seriously, I still Twitter.) Congrats to Amber!

My apologies for not stopping by lately. Life happened. I hope all is well in your world, though by the looks of it, you’re one proud mama.
on December 9, 2009 at 11:52 pm Julie

Hey, Kimberli! Oh, boy. I’m an obnoxiously proud mama…haha! Please don’t apologize for not being around. Believe me, I know how that is. But I am glad you’re here now. Thanks so much!
on December 28, 2009 at 8:59 pm christine

Great acting, very slick and professional. What a great way to produce video online! Congratulations to Amber! I saw her name in big letters at the end.
on December 28, 2009 at 11:09 pm Julie

Thank you, Christine! Isn’t it awesome? The actors have done such a good job, and the filming is beautiful. I’m always happy when Tuesday comes, so I can see the next episode. I’ll pass along the good words to Amber, too. It’s much appreciated:)