Ren Online

The last few years have been a truly revolutionary time for media. Traditionally, big companies and corporations controlled publishing, movies and television. Yet with the advent of the internet and eBooks, there is a great democratizing of these industries. Now, if the average Joe (or Josephine) wants to make a movie or write a book they can...and they can get it to the public rather easily. Not surprisingly, this has naturally resulted in a lot of crap...but, more surprisingly, it's also brought us some amazing products...many of which have been funded by fans, friends and family. There are many examples of tremendous films out there which have bypassed the traditional distribution system. For example, the Star Trek fan films have gotten so good and the special effects so realistic that Paramount recently began threatening to prosecute some of these fan produced products. I also wrote a couple months ago about a truly breathtaking webseries, "Time Keeper" (by Daryn Murphy)--a project that further helps to redefine what an independent film can be and how cinematic it can look.

The latest of these non-traditional films I've had the privilege of seeing is "Ren: The Girl With the Mask". And, like "Time Keeper", it's a webseries. Making a film in serial form makes sense, as the filmmakers can produce each installment as crowdfunding allows. After all, unless you are a multimillionaire who doesn't mind spending their inheritance or you have a huge studio itching to fund you, you can't do much without money. With a crowdfunded webseries, you can release your film in stages as money allows. So, the more fans appreciate your work and are willing to help fund it, the more installments you can make and the sooner you can get them to the fans. And, unfortunately, if funding isn't forthcoming, the series will die...which is awful if you've been sucked into these often very immersive stories. Fortunately with Ren, they've already made five episodes and more are already being produced. Episodes one and two are already online and episodes three, four and five will be released later this month. I have only seen episodes one and two...so, like the series' fans, I am waiting impatiently for more...but I really like what I've seen.

The series is set in a mythical world much like the Middle Ages. In this bleak world is poverty, hunger and misery. Ren (Sophie Skelton) is a lovely young woman who is a bit of a rebel and non- conformist when the series begins, however, soon her entire life is upended when she becomes possessed with the spirit of a dying woman! I would tell you more but don't want to spoil it...plus, at this point, I am waiting to see what happens next to Ren!

So why am I anxiously awaiting future episodes? Well, the film looks and sounds so gorgeous and professional. The soundtrack, the cinematography and the sets and costumes look brilliant...much better than you'd expect from most crowdfunded productions. But as I already said, it's still early in the series and there is a second season coming as well...so I can't really say whether I love it or not...though I have really liked what I've seen so far. With three more episodes coming very soon, we'll all have a greater idea where the story by Michelle Golder, Christopher Dane and Kate Madison (who also directs) is headed next.

By the way, since only two episodes have aired so far, I'm withholding a vote for this one and may return later to update this.

This is a pretty good time, all things considered. For an series made for YouTube it has very good nice sets, costumes, and decent acting. It lacks some of the polish of a television show, but that comes with the territory. The show feels like a scratch on the surface. The writers clearly have big ideas about the world and lore of Ren, but simply lack the resources to bring it completely to life. The five short episodes cover a lot of ground. Unfortunately, this means that some emotional moments lose their value. We just don't have enough time with the characters to get fully invested and feel the weight of events. That being said, the series was enjoyable. If you enjoy this genre and have an hour to kill you can't go wrong with Ren. Hopefully, they will make another season and continue the story.

Great work! Cinematically great and skillfully made. Interesting and exciting plot. The single episodes are well structured and make you curious for more. Also the cast and the extras are convincing. You can feel the passion and dedication that went into this cool project. Keep it up! I hope for a 2nd season.

Won't last long and for many good reason's. It's kind of a drag. there is nothing about it that stand's out. It's very limited in it's scope and plays to a short list of characters in a limited environment.