DTLA

DTLA is an American dramatic television series that premiered on Logo in 2012. The series represented a unique, vibrant, and groundbreaking dive into the lives of a diverse group of individuals in downtown Los Angeles, or DTLA. The emphasized communities were largely untouched by mainstream television series, moving away from the typical Hollywood glitz and glam to focus on an authentic assortment of characters in the heart of the city.

Created by Larry Kennar, who previously produced the 50 Cent biopic "Get Rich or Die Tryin", DTLA stands out due to its unique approach and progressive storytelling. The series is distinctively noteworthy for its inclusion and representation of multi-ethnic, gay, and lesbian characters, and was one of the ground-breaking shows in the network's mission to champion disenfranchised and underrepresented communities.

Set amid the backdrop of downtown Los Angeles, this drama unfolds around a diverse group of friends with a common bond that unites them; they all live within the same complex. The series brilliantly captures the essence and vibe of the downtown LA neighborhood, where cultures, lifestyle, and ideas collide, making it alive with a kind of vibrancy that only a city as diverse as Los Angeles can emanate.

The series primarily revolves around the life of Lenny, a corporate V.P. who breaks up with his long-term boyfriend and is forced to search for a new life on his own. From this point, the show delves into a roller-coaster of relationship dynamics, life choices, and personal existential crises, as Lenny and his friends navigate through the ebbs and flows of life.

Complementing the outstanding conceptualization of DTLA are the incredible performances. Darryl Stephens shines in his role as Lenny, while a cast ensemble including Matthew Stephen Herrick, Marshelle Fair, Scott Pretty and, Erin Daniels brings together an engaging mix of experiences and perspectives. Each character comes with a distinctive life story, responsibly and meticulously crafted, making the audience connect with them on a personal level.

Anchored in reality and capturing the earmarks of urban life, DTLA pushes the boundaries and challenges stereotypes, offering a stark contrast to the typical LA storylines seen in other productions. The series stands out not just for presenting LGBTQ+ characters, but for the depth and richness with which they're written and portrayed. Instead of defining characters only by their sexual orientation, DTLA gives them breadth and depth, focusing on their personal journey rather than their identities.

Inclusions like honest struggles with coming out to parents, difficulties in finding love, building and maintaining healthy relationships are at the forefront, showcasing the realities that are often swept under the rug in mainstream television. The way DTLA narrates and displays life in downtown LA fosters relatability, filling a gap in the representation of various sexual orientations and ethnicities on television.

The soundtrack of DTLA deserves a special mention. Featuring electronic, pop, and indie rock music primarily sourced from unsigned bands, the soundtrack meshes closely with the landscape of the story, adding another layer of authenticity and character to the presentation.

Through a blend of humor, drama, love, and hope, DTLA succeeds in providing a gripping narrative that reflects the unsung world of downtown Los Angeles. It stands as a testament to diversity, effort, and breakthrough on the small screen, showcasing a life both exuberant and poignant at the same time.

Moreover, the first season of the show was crowd-funded, making it part of a new trend of independent television productions. This allowed more creative freedom and authenticity, further adding to the organic and genuine quality of the series.

In conclusion, DTLA is a progressive and credible representation of diverse communities, serving as a refreshing and essential narrative about life in downtown Los Angeles. It is an ambitious, heartfelt and groundbreaking series that challenges norms, breaks barriers, and champions diversity, making it more than just a TV show; it is a celebration of life in all its complexity and beauty.