World News
Characters in Web-based series face issues that mirror Lenten themes
Published: February 22, 2012
LOS ANGELES (CNS) -- A new, locally produced Web-based dramatic series offers a unique Lenten experience to believers as well as seekers. Produced by Loyola Productions in association with the Midwest Jesuits and Loyola Press, the post-apocalyptic drama "40" premiered its first episode on the series website, 40theseries.com, and social media sites on Ash Wednesday, Feb. 22. The series --- filmed on location in Los Angeles early last December --- centers on the journey of seven strangers who appear to be the only survivors of a mysterious, calamitous event in an empty Los Angeles, devoid of people. Two new episodes will appear each week during Lent on the "40" website, YouTube, Vimeo and Facebook until the finale airs April 4, which is Wednesday of Holy Week, also known as "Spy Wednesday," an apparent reference to Christ's betrayal by Judas. The episodes air on Mondays and Wednesdays. Jesuit Brother Michael Breault, an award-winning writer/director, developed the Lenten series to offer something new and engaging. "'40' is not just a series; it's unique in that it also serves as a Lenten allegory," Brother Breault told The Tidings, newspaper of the Los Angeles Archdiocese. "At the heart of each episode are questions and scriptural meditations designed to enhance a person's Lenten journey."
Copyright (c) Catholic News Service /U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. The CNS news report may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or otherwise distributed, including but not limited to such means as framing or any other digital copying or distribution method, in whole or in part without the prior written authority of Catholic News Service .
