Microsoft's MSN service has teamed with Endemol UK and Pure Grass Films on an interactive sci-fi series, called "Kirill." The series consists of 10 three-minute episodes, hosted on MSN Video (it can be viewed in HD quality by downloading Microsoft Silverlight) and supplemented by various blogs, images, "secret" Web sites, and additional audio and video files scattered throughout the Internet. It tells the story of a man who is trying to make contact with a young woman who holds the key to the future of humanity, and it places various Microsoft products and services--including Vista, Live Search, Live Messenger, Live Spaces and MSN--at the crux of the story. Viewers are invited to interact with the series by unraveling clues and deciphering codes that hold key information about each of the episodes.
The show was produced on a comparatively large budget for a Web series: among other things, it features famous British actor, David Schofield ("Gladiator," "Pirates of the Caribbean," "Valkyrie"). "Video is central to our strategy and with 'Kirill' we're putting ourselves firmly on the map," MSN executive producer, Peter Bale, said in a prepared statement. "What makes Kirill unique is the interoperability of the show with Microsoft's range of products and services. This is the first time we have commissioned a drama of this scale, but with Endemol looking after production, an actor of David's caliber, and high production values, we're really excited and confident about its launch." Added Paul Mustafa, head of digital studios at Endemol UK: "We're thrilled to be part of MSN UK's first ever original production. 'Kirill' is a unique concept bringing together a wide range of styles and techniques, from high production drama to blogging and messaging. This is an action-packed sci-fi thriller and I have no doubt that MSN's audience is going to love it."
