by FIlmInk Staff
First Kiss is a 10 part series developed specifically for TikTok and its Gen Z audience. With everything about their lives shared online, the show centres on the real fear of being behind on important teen milestones, especially in a post pandemic world.
After learning she is officially the last person in her year to be kissed, Talia vows to lock lips with her long-time crush before the New Year ticks over, but she quickly discovers that the boy of her dreams has absolutely no interest in kissing her, and what’s more, she’s now stuck in a time loop re-living the worst night of her life. The only way out? Kiss someone – anyone – to break the loop.
With the digital revolution in full swing, the next wave is reimagining the delivery of scripted series. Initially viewed as cat videos and dance challenges, social media platforms have led the boom in scripted vertical storytelling, catering to an audience that is more at home on their phone screens than navigating the TV Guide. The demand for vertical series has only grown thanks to the proliferation of numerous micro drama apps, and as this new frontier is being established, it’s vital that Australian producers stay connected to the rapidly changing landscape.
Created by writer/producer Alyce Adams, short form is a familiar medium to her, writing the world’s first scripted series for TikTok release in 2020, Love Songs, which in total has amassed over 20 million views. She previously worked in the Online department of Screen Australia, honing her understanding of the format through years of experience. Re-teaming up with talented DOP Benjamin Sengsouvanh (Love Songs), the series utilises the skills of second shooter Matt Quattro in order to match the production speed of typical micro dramas, with director Chase Bowman keeping a keen eye for performances.
Featuring a young and upcoming cast, Imogen Linton stars as Talia Williams alongside love interest Ollie Vincent, as played by Ben Chen, with support from Xanthe Blaise, Giovanni Young, and Rehanna Lunn. Casting was done by Highway Casting, led by casting director Annabel Clayton.
Traditional broadcasters are facing a growing problem of losing their next wave of viewers as more and more teenagers permanently turn away from models of old. Like any other generation, teenagers of today want to see their stories on screen, but they are not switching on the TV to do so. Short form is quickly becoming the new normal, and First Kiss is leading the way in this next era of entertainment.
FIRST KISS will premiere on TikTok and Instagram on December 8th.
Casting Director: Annabel Clayton Photographer: Zarina Heron Title Designer: Lisianne Chan
TikTok: @firstkissseries | Instagram: @firstkissseries
