HBO Max has given out its first pilot-to-series order to “Generation,” from executive producer and “Girls” creator Lena Dunham.
The duo behind Jennifer Aniston’s “Cake,” Daniel and Ben Barnz of We’re Not Brothers Productions, will direct and executive produce the project respectively. Their daughter, 18-year-old Zelda Barnz, created the series along with Daniel Barnz.
“Generation” is a “dark yet playful” half-hour that follows a group of high school students “whose exploration of modern sexuality (devices and all) tests deeply entrenched beliefs about life, love and the nature of family in their conservative community,” according to HBO Max.
The cast includes Nathanya Alexander, Chloe East, Nava Mau, Lukita Maxwell, Haley Sanchez, Uly Schlesinger, Sam Trammell, Chase Sui Wonders with Justice Smith and Martha Plimpton.
“I wanted to see myself and kids my own age represented on TV in a way that felt real, without judgement or nostalgia. I’m so appreciative of my mentor and soul-sister Lena Dunham for all her support and guidance, and so thankful to HBO Max for making this crazy dream come true,” Zelda Barnz said.
“I have fallen head over heels for this brilliant family, who have allowed their 18-year old daughter Zelda to express herself in a way that’s both effortlessly funny and plumbs the depths of the adolescent experience. Daniel’s direction is sensitive and artful and as a producer, Ben is equally committed to rigor and fun. I cannot wait for people to see Zelda’s brilliance come to life and to meet this insanely impressive cast of honest, powerful performers and I’m so excited to be a part of the soon to be juggernaut of HBOMax,” said Dunham.
Dunham executive produces for Good Thing Going Productions, with Daniel and Ben Barnz for We’re Not Brothers Productions. Zelda Barnz is co-executive producer. Marissa Diaz produces for Good Thing Going Productions.
HBO Max, a streaming service from WarnerMedia, is set to debut in the spring of 2020. It will feature programming including original content like “Generation,” as well as existing HBO shows, third-party licensed programs and movies, and content from Warner Bros., New Line, DC, CNN, TNT, TBS, truTV, Turner Classic Movies, Cartoon Network, Adult Swim, Crunchyroll, Rooster Teeth, and Looney Tunes.