A new dimension: Rod Serling documentary filming wraps in Rhode Island
Apr 01, 2025
PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — Submitted for your approval: Filming has officially wrapped in Rhode Island for a documentary on Rod Serling—the visionary force behind an iconic science-fiction series.
The authorized documentary will explore Serling’s life and his impact on television as the crea
tor, narrator, and central writer of "The Twilight Zone."
The Rhode Island Film & TV Office describes the film as an "intimate portrait" of Serling, highlighting how his work helped shape the industry.
Steven Feinberg, RI Film & TV Office executive director, called Serling "prolific, creative and insightful" and a "provocative storyteller." He added that Serling's narratives have impacted millions of lives and said he "has and always will be an inspiration."
RI Film & TV Office Executive Director Steven Feinberg alongside actor Tom DeNucci for filming of Rod Serling documentary (Courtesy: Rhode Island Film & TV Office)
When the first episode of "The Twilight Zone" aired in October 1959 on CBS, no one knew it would later be renowned as one of the greatest TV programs of all time, or the profound impact it would have on the industry.
The RI Film & TV Office described the series as a "genre-bending show" that tackled social and political issues like war, racism, and the dangers of technology through the lens of sci-fi stories.
"The show was not simply great primetime entertainment, but rather, a cultural phenomenon of tales of morality with thought-provoking social commentary," the office said.
The film, which remains untitled at this time, has been authorized by Serling's daughters, Jodi and Anne Serling, who are also serving as executive producers.
Executive Director Steven Feinberg alongside actor Tom DeNucci and crew for filming of Rod Serling documentary (Courtesy: Rhode Island Film & TV Office)
Photo of WCBS-TV for filming of Rod Serling documentary (Courtesy: Rhode Island Film & TV Office)
Although Serling was from upstate New York, production took place across several Rhode Island locations, including Providence, East Greenwich, and South Kingstown. According to the RI Film & TV Office, recreations of Serling's life were shot in these locations, "mirroring the same cinematic black-and-white style of 'The Twilight Zone.'"
Tom DeNucci for filming of Rod Serling documentary (Courtesy: Rhode Island Film & TV Office)
For these reenactments, Rhode Island native Tom DeNucci portrayed Serling.
The documentary is a collaboration between Rhode Island-based Verdi Productions and Appian Way, the production company founded by Leonardo DiCaprio.
"Our company's goal is to keep creating jobs in Rhode Island with high-profile and meaningful projects that our small state can be proud of," Chad A. Verdi, Verdi Productions president, said.
Verdi also hinted at future collaborations with Appian Way, saying more projects could be on the horizon for Rhode Island.
NEXT: Documentary premieres at Providence Place, revealing artists’ four-year mall residency
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