Global producer and distributor Fremantle has acquired the worldwide rights to "Penelope", the inspirational, coming-of-age indie drama, produced by the acclaimed Duplass Brothers Productions ("Somebody Somewhere", "Room 104", "Cyrus", "Jeff", "Who Lives at Home"). Created by Mark Duplass and Mel Eslyn, the 8 x 30’ series premiered at the 2024 Sundance Film Festival, and is set to launch on Netflix (US) on 24th September.
"Penelope" is written and created by Mark Duplass ("The Morning Show", "The One I Love", "Tully") and Mel Eslyn ("Biosphere", "Room 104"). Duplass and Eslyn executive produce alongside Jay Duplass ("Industry", "The Chair") and Shuli Harel of Duplass Brothers Productions. Eslyn also directs and serves as showrunner. Fremantle is handling global distribution.
The series follows Penelope, played by Megan Stott ("Little Fires Everywhere", "Yes Day", "Aftermath"), a 16-year-old who feels out of place in modern society and is drawn into the unknown wilderness, where she begins to form a new life for herself. Like most teenagers today, Penelope is caught up in the modern world’s technology, pacing and pressure. But something is missing, and things feel off, she can’t quite put it into words. On the surface, her life seems pretty great, while inside, there’s a fierceness that’s been brewing, a calling towards a new way of being. After a chance encounter with a wolf and a rabbit on a school camping trip, the call becomes too loud for Penelope to ignore. When no one is looking, she runs away. Without a plan, Penelope navigates her way through a series of encounters, traveling a long distance and eventually sneaking into a National Forest. But this is only the beginning of what will become a long journey through the unknown wilderness and Penelope’s quest to find her place in it. Alongside Megan Stott, the cast also includes Austin Abrams ("Euphoria", "Dash & Lily", "Do Revenge"); Krisha Fairchild ("Krisha", "Channel Zero", "Freeland") and Rhenzy Feliz ("The Penguin", "All Together Now", "Encanto").
Rebecca Dundon, SVP Scripted Content, International at Fremantle gave details about the drama:“It is an honour to be partnering with the esteemed Duplass Brothers to introduce 'Penelope' to the world. This premium, coming-of-age series has strong emotional heart and beautiful production values, all whilst addressing important, timely and relatable issues that consume our everyday lives. Penelope’s poignant tale of survival and self-discovery is one we’ve no doubt will capture the hearts of millions across borders," commented.