‘KGB’.
The ABC has green lit comedy web series KGB, from brothers Luke and Dan Riches – a project borne out of Screenwest’s Indigenous online initiative, Originate.
Set in Perth’s notorious KGB (Koondoola, Girrawheen, Balga), the series – described as a cross between Black Comedy and Hot Fuzz – follows two rookie detectives, tough guy Jack and gentle giant Nigel, as they deal with the chaos of their new jobs, no-nonsense boss, work rivals, drug dealers and culprits who consistently turn out to be family members. Despite battling their own insecurities at every turn, and the fact that Jack bullied Nigel in high school, these two might just turn out to be KGB’s finest detectives.
The cast include Clarence Ryan, Bjorn Stewart, Genevieve Morris, Mark Coles Smith, Aaron McGrath, Jesse Phillips, Lynette Narkle and Amy Smith.
Originate is a Screenwest and ABC Indigenous narrative web series development and production initiative for emerging WA Indigenous screen practitioners. Following a development workshop, KGB was selected by an expert industry panel from 11 applications. It is awarded development funding, production funding and an experienced EP, as well as a series commission by ABC Indigenous. Screen Australia has also invested in the series.
The Riches are the founders of Ardiol Media, and their other work includes Lost Diamonds, a documentary coming soon to NITV.
“We were surprised to be selected given the competitive field of applicants, but also super thankful and excited for the opportunity Screenwest and the ABC are providing us.
“KGB will allow us to explore our creativity in a whole new genre,” said the brothers.
KGB will be executive produced by Lauren Elliott of Mad Kids, produced by Taryne Laffar and written by the Riches, together with emerging WA screenwriters Joel Gray and Clare Toonen. The Riches will also direct, with Henry Inglis as director’s mentor.
“I’m so glad KGB won because I really want to watch it! I feel very privileged to be selected by Screenwest and ABC as EP, and I’m excited to be mentoring Luke, Dan and our series producer, Taryne Laffar. This opportunity is a real coup for Mad Kids as it will allow us to support emerging Indigenous Western Australian talent, as well as produce a show that we think is bloody funny.” said Elliott.
“Online series are the new short film in terms of carving a career pathway, and this initiative in particular will provide Luke and Dan with invaluable experience and access to the large ABC audience,” said Screenwest Indigenous programs manager Devina McPherson.
ABC head of Indigenous Kelrick Martin said: “ABC Indigenous is a proud supporter of new Indigenous voices in the screen industry. Partnering with Screenwest on the Originate initiative ensures that we can continue to provide amazing career opportunities for exciting Western Australian Indigenous talent like Luke and Dan Riches. We can’t wait to share this show with our ABC audience!” said Kelrick Martin, Head of Indigenous for ABC.
KGB is filming in Perth this month and will premiere on ABC iview later this year.