Be Unusual and Multiply

The Chosen (2019)

Would you believe that more than 600 million people from 197 countries watched a TV series that was crowdfunded and shot by a small independent studio? It sounds unreal but it is unfolding right now. "The Chosen" became one of the top entertainment case studies of our times by going from niche to becoming a mainstream multi-season phenomenon, in theaters now (read more on BBC).

Organic Growth

The model happened organically, as Brad Prelo, the TV show's president, told THR. The series went from being streamed on a free app to being repped by Lionsgate and screened on Netflix, Amazon Prime, Peacock, Vudu, Apple Plus, and the CW. On streamers alone, it is said to have been watched by more than 200 million people.

The Classic Hero

What is so interesting about "The Chosen" is a model that completely subverts everything we know about the entertainment flow. First, the narrative tells the story of Jesus of Nazareth in a cultural way, rather than a faith-based manner, therefore merging genre definitions.

No Packaging

Secondly, there is not one famous actor, director, or talent attached to the project. It was a zero-packaged show that made most actors involved in it known to the public - so much so that Jonathan Roumie, who plays Jesus, just starred in a Super Bowl half-time commercial alongside Mark Wahlberg. 

Groundbreaking Business Model

Thirdly, all seasons have been funded by donations – each one averaging $11 Million in production costs for eight episodes. Add to that theatrical revenue (box office for season 3 was $14 million and, so far, season 4 has grossed $8.6 million, according to Forbes) and VOD. It's the true recipe for commercial success.

Critic Praise

But wait, the series is also a huge critic review success, for both the audience and the press. "The Chosen" got 100% rotten tomatoes in season one (96% total average). The Atlantic called it a "must-see show". The Washington Post compares it to "Game of Thrones" and "Breaking Bad".

We All Know How It Ends

Everyone who watches "The Chosen" knows exactly what happens to the main character. Yet, the fascination is unwavering. What is so refreshing? Maybe it is the modern-age Jesus with his disciples, as CBS News suggests. Maybe it is the courage of writer-director Dallas Jenkins to imagine the bible in real colors, giving the sanctified characters real traits such as PTSD, Autism, fears, relationship pains, and humor. Maybe it is just a better adaptation (among many) of the most-read book ever. In any case, we can all learn from it.

"The Chosen" proves that old stories, even when paired up with unconventional business models, can generate groundbreaking outcomes. We are here to help you navigate all those possibilities! 

Best,

Laura