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Project Alpha

During the 80s, two teenagers convince scientists at a top US-university of their psychic powers.

synopsis

1979. The CIA is invested in psychic warfare and future president Reagan relies on his personal astrologer’s guidance on whether to run for office. Amidst this supernatural craze, professor Phillips of Washington University in St. Louis is offered a major parapsychology grant. Intrigued by quantum physics’ link to consciousness, he chooses to investigate bending metal with mind powers alone. To prevent cheating, he accepts the advice of skeptic James Randi. An escape artist turned debunker of supernatural claims, Randi suspects Phillips will end up dismissing his help and recruits teenage magicians Steve Shaw and Mike Edwards to apply. Cover name: Project Alpha. Selected as Phillips’ only subjects, the boys soon perform astonishing psychic feats and become celebrities in the parapsychological world. But the deception takes a toll, especially on Steve, who feels increasingly conflicted about his allegiance to Randi, demanding he not only betray his new friend Phillips’ trust, but the core of his own beliefs.

Director’statement

Part mystery drama, part coming-of-age story, our limited series bends genres to weave a narrative around one of the most memorable hoaxes in recent history. Using the fun and distinctive 80s aesthetics we grew up with, the series dips audiences headfirst into the real hype around the supernatural at the time. Watching the drama unfold alongside its mesmerising characters, viewers experience how an alternative reality can unknowingly emerge from seemingly innocent attitudes and biases we hold. And how these biases can be exploited by those who seek to manipulate us. Living in a world of “alternative truths” 40 years on, this seems more relevant than ever. On another level, the story is thus also about trust and how we as humans need and crave this connection to one another. So much that we will occasionally forgo our better judgments to achieve it. By finally bringing this incredible story to the screen, we want to enchant audiences worldwide while also poking the bear about an explosive topic of our time.

TFL PROGRAMME:
SeriesLab 2023

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