Since it's just too cold to be outside tonight, come to Espresso Royale on the Corner, grab a cup of coffee and be there for the free premiere of the fourth and fifth episodes of "Stratagem" -- an original television series produced by WHOO-TV, the student-run TV station at the University.
The show follows five students enrolled in a summer psychology program at the fictional Blackwood College. The students are present for different reasons -- some are working toward better grades, while others want to gain extra credits. Over the course of the summer and the show, however, the group faces challenges together while each character develops individually.
The two half-hour episodes shown tonight will conclude with an "intriguing end" to episode five.
Although the first three episodes were shown previously this year, students who are not familiar with the show are still encouraged to come to the premiere.
"A recap of the first three episodes will be shown at the beginning of the evening and will explain the story leading up to the point where the fourth episode begins," said Nick Holden, the creator, producer, editor and director of the show.
"Stratagem" debuted last October with the idea to make a dramatic series. A casting session was held last January, and filming took place June through mid-August.
Fourth-year College student Jon Unger, who serves as assistant director, associate producer, co-writer and plays Leo in the show, wrote his own character, whom he admits is somewhat based on himself.
He described the show as the biggest project of his life, and an area that he hopes to pursue after graduation.
"What made the show easy was the fact that everyone had a good attitude. I actually miss it more now than I thought I would," Unger said. "You don't know what to expect in the beginning, but then you see the final outcome and are pleased."
Currently the group is working on putting together a packaged DVD/VHS, which will include all seven episodes as well as bonus footage, for release in April.
Videos will be available for a low price and all profits will benefit WHOO-TV.
Other "Stratagem" products, such as hats, coffee mugs, and fleeces, are also available for purchase through the show's Web site, stratagemseries.com.
In addition to the viewing at Espresso Royale tonight at 6:30, the show also will air on Channel 14 at 7:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and will start over with the first episode on Feb. 18.
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