Claire Desmarais and co-creator Sarah Bellstedt have been awarded early-stage development financing for their short-form digital series GIRLS LIKE US, a queer comedy-drama. Writing is currently underway.
This funding follows Claire’s acceptance into the 2023 Ontario Creates IDM Futures Forward program, administered by Women in Film - Toronto. The program supports early-stage screen-based companies by equipping them with the skills and knowledge to enhance their competitiveness.
The producing team supporting Claire and Sarah in developing GIRLS LIKE US includes Claire’s fellow Canadian Film Centre alumna, Producer Bonnie Do (Producer, GO TOGO; formerly of Pier 21 Films and Serendipity Point Films), and their CFC mentor, Executive Producer Alyson Richards (Producer, CHILDREN RUIN EVERYTHING). Critically acclaimed actor/writer/director Knox joins as Consulting Producer, lending her expertise as the creator, writer, and showrunner of celebrated short-form digital series such as SLO PITCH, HOMESCHOOLED, and BARBELLE.
Rounding out the story team are comedians and writers Aidan O’Loughlin (WORKIN’ MOMS, BRIA MACK GETS A LIFE, THE TRADES, CANADA’S DRAG RACE) and Spencer Glassman (Writer/Director, HOW’D YOU SLEEP?, THIS TIME, WITH FEELING).
Development activities supported by the Future Forward Fund include a one-week writers’ room, the writing of four scripts, and the design of a show title and pitch deck by Natalie Mathers (Creative Director, Academy Inc.). With the materials produced in this phase of development, the team will be pursuing production financing in 2025.