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Pioneering a New Sitcom Format: The Genesis of 'DINKS'
Amazon has given the green light to its inaugural multi-camera sitcom, spearheaded by the renowned Marta Kauffman. This new series, uniquely titled "DINKS," which stands for "dual income, no kids," is poised to become the first-ever improvised multi-camera comedy. The show will feature the real-life married couple Paul Scheer and June Diane Raphael in leading roles, supported by series regular Jon Gabrus, bringing a fresh and dynamic approach to comedic storytelling.
An Innovative Production and Financing Model
Adding to its distinctiveness, "DINKS" is being produced through a collaborative partnership involving Amazon MGM Studios, Lionsgate, and Publicis Media Content Innovation (PMCI). Notably, PMCI, the specialized entertainment division of Publicis Groupe's Publicis Media, will fully finance the series. This deviates from traditional television financing methods, highlighting a forward-thinking strategy to bring high-quality content to audiences.
The Visionary Behind the Series: Marta Kauffman's Creative Drive
Marta Kauffman, who co-created the series with Hannah K.S. Canter, also serves as an executive producer under their Okay Goodnight banner. Robbie Rowe Tollin and Jesse Schiller join them in executive production, with Raphael and Scheer also taking on executive producer roles in addition to their starring duties. Kauffman expressed her excitement about reinventing the multi-camera format, describing the filming experience as an unpredictable yet enjoyable ride, akin to a roller coaster in the dark.
Exploring Modern Relationships: The Premise of 'DINKS'
The sitcom centers on a couple, portrayed by Scheer and Raphael, who choose to construct a shared life by renovating their challenging dream home, in lieu of traditional marriage or children. This premise promises to delve into contemporary relationships with humor and warmth, a hallmark of Kauffman's previous successful works.
Industry Enthusiasm and Collaborations
Peter Friedlander, head of global television for Amazon MGM Studios, lauded Kauffman's iconic voice in comedy and her ability to infuse everyday relationships with heart and humor, all while pushing the boundaries through improvisation. He emphasized the perfect casting of June and Paul and the collaborative spirit with Lionsgate and PMCI, aiming to deliver a series that feels both current and enduring for Prime Video viewers.
Lionsgate's Perspective on a Groundbreaking Partnership
Scott Herbst, EVP & head of scripted development for Lionsgate Television, and Brad Haugen, EVP of digital strategy & growth for Lionsgate, highlighted Kauffman's ability to craft a fresh, highly original comedy in "DINKS." They noted the series' distinctiveness and universal relatability, attributing much of its appeal to the spontaneity and chemistry between June and Paul. This partnership with Amazon MGM Studios and PMCI is seen as a return to earlier television models, where studios, networks, and advertisers collaborated closely in the storytelling process.
A Glimpse at the Cast: Familiar Faces and Fresh Talent
June Diane Raphael, known for her role as Brianna in Kauffman's "Grace and Frankie" and her current starring role in Amazon's "Elle," brings a wealth of comedic experience. Paul Scheer, who also made a guest appearance in "Grace and Frankie," is recognized for his work in series like "The League" and "Black Monday." Jon Gabrus, celebrated for his roles in "What We Do in the Shadows" and "Brooklyn Nine-Nine," completes the main cast, promising a formidable comedic ensemble.
The Future of Television Financing
Eric Levin, chief creative officer of PMCI, underscored the increasing need for creative partnerships that blend expertise across various industries. He views this model, which combines strategic capital with development insights, as an alternative pathway to greenlight projects in an increasingly competitive market. Levin believes that the future of television financing will be driven by innovative partnerships that mirror the creativity of the content they support.
