Boston University screened the premier of the new HBO series “Girls” at the College of Communication Monday night.
The pilot, which is scheduled to make its debut April 15, was shown to students as part of the College of Communication’s Cinematheque program.
“I think a lot of students who go here ask the fundamental question, ‘Why break into the industry or what’s selling now?’ And ‘Girls’ and ‘Tiny Furniture’ by Lena Dunham are good ways to get your name out there,” said Jason Hellerman, a second year COM graduate student who helped coordinate the screening.
Hellerman descibed the low-budget comedies such as Dunham’s latest show as “the way of the future” in the film and television industry.
Dunham screened her first film “Tiny Furniture” in October 2011 as part of Cinematheque, Hellerman said. BU remained in contact with the creator and arranged to premiere “Girls” after it had been picked up by HBO.
The show “Girls” is a comedy about recent college graduates who move to New York City and grapple with their responsibilities as adults.
“The series is all about girls that . . . are trying to figure out their lives,” said Jana Herman, a HBO spokeswoman. “Every student, girl or boy, can really remember what it’s like to feel that way and the fear that you have when you get to what you want to do and you’re not really sure.”
More than 90 students went to watch the pilot and the second episode. Attendees were offered popcorn and soda and as well as bags and miniature flashlights sponsored by Comcast.
“It was interesting,” said COM senior Saiya Floyd. “I haven’t seen a show like that before.”
Herman said HBO visits BU more than once a year with new programming, especially new series, because students make great judges and reflect how real audiences will react to shows.
“[We aim] to sort of listen, see what they have to say, if they liked it and if they didn’t and go back and report back,” Herman said. “I think BU’s always a great place. We always have good screenings here so we like to come.”
COM junior Fior Fabian said she attended because Cinematheque is required for her classes, but also because she likes watching HBO series.
“I just want to see what HBO’s been up to,” she said.
Dunham graduated from Oberlin College in 2008. Her first short film, entitled “Dealing,” premiered at the 2007 Slamdance Film Festival. Her first feature, called “Creative Nonfiction,” premiered at South by South West in 2009, according to Dunham’s website. She is also the creator of two web series, “Tight Shots” and “Delusional Downtown Divas.”
“Girls” focuses on more than just career challenges after college. It deals with drug, sex and issues with friends as well.
“It was definitely very unique,” said College of Arts and Sciences junior Sarah Duke. “It was very odd.”
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