Suite 7

Suite 7 is a unique and versatile web series commissioned by Lifetime in 2010 and initially aired in 2011. This anthology drama stands out due to its distinctive format and is far removed from the traditional long-form narrative structure that we typically expect from TV shows.

The premise of Suite 7 revolves around a single location: a suite in a high-end hotel. As the stories unfold, the suite acts as the focal point and setting where all the drama and conflict take place. Each episode involving different characters and stories unfolds within the walls of this suite, making it a multi-faceted hub of human experiences. It’s a revolving door of new characters and storylines, ranging from comedic to dramatic, from romantic to downright heartbreaking.

Suite 7 is different from most shows, featuring a new cast with each episode, with seven episodes for the first season. Big name stars in Hollywood such as Shannen Doherty, Brian Austin Green, and Milo Ventimiglia were part of the cast lineup, which shifted with each episode, creating a unique and ever-changing dynamic. This episodic anthology approach made for an intriguing viewing experience, while the consistent setting—the suite—served as the singular unifying element across all episodes.

Another fascinating aspect of this series is the presentation of different writing styles, reflecting the diversity and range of its roster of writers. Each episode is scripted by a different writer and directed by a different director, resulting in a multifaceted tapestry of narratives that present a variety of tones and styles.

The series was sponsored by the Better Sleep Council, a non-profit organization, which means each episode subtly incorporates themes or narratives around sleep, rest, and the bedroom. This clever twist adds yet another layer of depth to the series, as it weaves these themes organically into the narrative without feeling forced or out of place.

Suite 7 also stands out for its exceptional production quality. Despite being a web series, its high production values shine through in every episode, showcasing the excellent performances of its diverse cast, its high-quality cinematography, and its rich storylines.

The concept of Suite 7 is simple yet genius — one constant location with changing stories. It's the perfect platform for exploring a wide variety of narrative styles, characters, and themes. It’s rather like watching seven mini-movies set in different genres, hosting an all-star cast of characters and relationships.

By keeping the location consistent while changing the characters and plot with each episode, Suite 7 explores the universality of human experiences. Every character who enters Suite 7 experiences a transformative moment or significant turning point in their life, making its impact felt across a myriad of stories, experiences, and perspectives.

In essence, Suite 7 is a unique experiment, exploring the intersection of permanence and impermanence, of consistency and change, of routine and unpredictability. The individual episodes offer spectators a unique window into different lives and backgrounds, showcasing an array of human emotions, experiences, and relationships.

Each episode embodies a self-contained narrative, which makes each episode suspenseful and engaging from start to finish. As soon as viewers start to piece together the narrative and form attachments to the characters, their time in Suite 7 ends, paving the way for the next story.

Eternally revolving around themes of love, loss, reunion and redemption, Suite 7 forges a unique viewing experience, one that merges the charm of stage plays and ensemble casts with the production quality and narrative depth of a TV show. It’s a masterclass in storytelling versatility, cementing its place as a standout in the sphere of anthology dramas.