Indie Web Series to Watch: Discover Independent Creators

Indie Web Series to Watch: Discover Independent Creators

The digital landscape has democratized content creation. No longer are aspiring filmmakers solely reliant on major studios for their voices to be heard. The rise of indie web series has birthed a vibrant ecosystem of independent creators, pushing boundaries, experimenting with narratives, and offering unique perspectives often absent from mainstream media. Exploring these series is a rewarding journey, offering a glimpse into the future of storytelling and the power of passionate, independent artistry. This article highlights some of the most compelling indie web series currently available, categorized for easier navigation and discovery.

Sci-Fi & Fantasy: Where Imagination Takes Flight

This genre thrives on world-building and innovative storytelling, and indie web series are excelling at both.

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  “RWBY” (Rooster Teeth): Arguably one of the most successful indie web series of all time, “RWBY” is an American animated media franchise created by Monty Oum for Rooster Teeth. Set in the fictional world of Remnant, the story follows four young women, each with unique weapons and abilities, as they train to become Huntresses, warriors who protect the world from monstrous creatures known as Grimm. “RWBY’s” success stems from its compelling characters, dynamic action sequences, and a sprawling, intricately designed world. The animation style evolved significantly throughout its run, showcasing Rooster Teeth’s growth as a studio. Its popularity has spawned multiple spin-offs, video games, and a dedicated fanbase. The series provides a masterclass in building a sustainable franchise from an indie foundation.

• “Star Trek Continues”: This fan-made series meticulously recreates the look and feel of the original “Star Trek,” picking up where the original series left off. Produced by fans for fans, “Star Trek Continues” boasts impressive production values, including sets, costumes, and visual effects that rival professional productions. The series features returning actors from the original franchise in guest roles, adding to its authenticity. What sets “Star Trek Continues” apart is its commitment to the spirit of exploration and optimism that defined the original series. It’s a testament to the enduring power of “Star Trek” and the talent of its dedicated fanbase.

• “Carmilla”: A modern gothic horror series based on the novella of the same name, “Carmilla” follows Laura Hollis, a journalism student whose roommate mysteriously disappears. Laura’s investigation leads her to the enigmatic and alluring Carmilla Karnstein, a centuries-old vampire. “Carmilla” is notable for its strong female leads, LGBTQ+ representation, and clever use of the vlog format. The series is a masterclass in building suspense and intrigue within a limited budget. Its success led to a feature film, further solidifying its place as a groundbreaking indie web series.

• “The Guild”: Felicia Day’s “The Guild” is a hilarious and relatable comedy about a group of online gamers who meet in real life. The series explores the challenges and triumphs of online communities, the complexities of friendship, and the absurdity of modern geek culture. “The Guild” was one of the first web series to achieve mainstream success, paving the way for other independent creators. Its witty writing, relatable characters, and genuine love for gaming made it a cultural phenomenon.

Comedy: Laughs from Unexpected Places

Indie web series often excel at comedy due to their freedom to experiment with unconventional formats and topics.

• “High Maintenance”: Before becoming a hit HBO series, “High Maintenance” started as a web series on Vimeo. The show follows “The Guy,” a nameless cannabis deliveryman, as he interacts with a diverse cast of characters in New York City. “High Maintenance” is known for its insightful observations about human nature, its quirky humor, and its authentic portrayal of urban life. The series is a testament to the power of character-driven storytelling and the ability of indie creators to find success through originality and quality.

• “Brown Girls”: Created by Fatimah Asghar and Sam Bailey, “Brown Girls” follows the lives of two young South Asian women navigating love, friendship, and identity in Chicago. The series is celebrated for its authentic representation of diverse perspectives, its sharp writing, and its exploration of complex social issues. “Brown Girls” is a powerful example of how indie web series can amplify marginalized voices and create meaningful conversations.

• “Whatever, Linda”: This absurdist comedy series follows the bizarre misadventures of Linda, a perpetually optimistic and eccentric woman who works at a dead-end office job. “Whatever, Linda” is known for its surreal humor, its quirky characters, and its unapologetic embrace of the absurd. The series is a refreshing departure from mainstream comedy, offering a unique and unforgettable viewing experience.

• “You’re So Talented”: Directed by Anna Drezen, this series follows a group of aspiring comedians trying to make it in New York City. The show is a hilarious and often cringe-worthy portrayal of the challenges and absurdities of pursuing a career in comedy. “You’re So Talented” is notable for its sharp writing, its relatable characters, and its insightful commentary on the comedy scene.

Drama & Thriller: Exploring the Human Condition

Indie web series are proving their ability to tackle complex themes and create suspenseful narratives.

• “Her Story”: Created by Jen Richards and Laura Zak, “Her Story” follows the lives of two transgender women navigating love, relationships, and identity in Chicago. The series is celebrated for its authentic representation of transgender experiences, its nuanced characters, and its powerful storytelling. “Her Story” is a groundbreaking series that has had a significant impact on LGBTQ+ representation in media. It won a Primetime Emmy Award, highlighting the power of indie web series to challenge traditional narratives and create positive social change.

• “Afterlife”: This dark and atmospheric series explores the aftermath of a global pandemic that has left humanity on the brink of extinction. “Afterlife” is known for its haunting visuals, its suspenseful plot, and its exploration of themes of survival, loss, and hope. The series is a testament to the ability of indie creators to create compelling dramas with limited resources.

• “Squaresville”: This coming-of-age drama follows the lives of two teenagers who are struggling to find their place in the world. “Squaresville” is known for its relatable characters, its authentic portrayal of teenage life, and its exploration of themes of identity, friendship, and self-discovery. The series is a heartwarming and insightful look at the challenges and triumphs of growing up.

• “The Lizzie Bennet Diaries”: This innovative adaptation of Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice” is told through the vlog format. Lizzie Bennet shares her thoughts and experiences with the audience, providing a modern and engaging take on the classic novel. “The Lizzie Bennet Diaries” is a prime example of how indie creators can reimagine classic stories for a contemporary audience. The series was a critical and commercial success, demonstrating the power of adapting familiar narratives in innovative ways.

Documentary & Educational: Learning & Discovery

Indie web series are also making strides in the documentary and educational space.

• “Crash Course”: Hosted by John and Hank Green (also known for their YouTube channel Vlogbrothers), “Crash Course” offers free educational videos on a wide range of subjects, from history and science to literature and philosophy. “Crash Course” is known for its engaging presentation style, its informative content, and its commitment to making education accessible to everyone. The series has become a valuable resource for students and lifelong learners alike.

• “Great Big Story”: This series features short documentaries about fascinating people, places, and things around the world. “Great Big Story” is known for its visually stunning cinematography, its compelling storytelling, and its celebration of human ingenuity and creativity. The series is a testament to the power of documentary filmmaking to inspire and inform.

• “Every Frame a Painting”: This series of video essays explores the art of filmmaking, analyzing the visual language of cinema and highlighting the techniques used by master directors. “Every Frame a Painting” is known for its insightful analysis, its clear explanations, and its passion for cinema. The series is a valuable resource for film students and anyone interested in learning more about the art of filmmaking.

Finding and Supporting Indie Web Series

Discovering these hidden gems requires a bit of exploration. Platforms like YouTube, Vimeo, and dedicated web series hubs offer a wealth of content. Websites like Tubefilter and web series festivals like LA Web Fest are excellent resources for finding curated lists and award-winning series.

Supporting indie creators is crucial for the continued growth of the web series ecosystem. This can be done through subscribing to their channels, sharing their videos, contributing to crowdfunding campaigns, or simply leaving positive comments and feedback. By actively engaging with and supporting indie web series, viewers can help empower independent creators and ensure that diverse voices continue to be heard. The future of storytelling is unfolding online, and indie web series are at the forefront of this exciting revolution.