jj herz
R&R
Written, Directed and Produced by JJ Herz
Starring Kevin Iannucci & JJ Herz
R&R is a comedic proof of concept pilot following Robbie and Rachel, codependent twins trying to “make it” in LA. Rachel (a sarcastic, raunchy, gay mess) brings the chaos, and Robbie (a neurotically organized, hopeless romantic with Down syndrome) cleans up the pieces.
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In a typical, yet chaotic, day in their lives, the twins do all the quintessential 20-something things: work horrible service industry jobs, accidentally take laxatives, fill up their gas tank in $10 increments, and of course, start a podcast.
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R&R holds a special place in my heart for myriad reasons. As a proud queer artist, the importance of creating strong LGBTQ+ representation on screen cannot be overstated. And that's precisely what R&R embodies — it's queer, it boasts a lead character who's disabled, and of course, it's funny. But, what truly sets it apart is the opportunity it presents to audiences: an invitation to laugh with our queer and disabled leads, rather than at them.
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Robbie, based loosely off my brother Griffin (who also has Down syndrome), is a character I’ve never seen on screen before. Characters with disabilities are often relegated to secondary roles, tossed in for the inclusion token. They become the unfortunate punchline for "comedic relief," all too frequently at the expense of their disability. Or, they're burdened with a narrative that paints them as helpless and pitiable, overwhelmed by their suffering. But, Robbie defies these conventions. He's a charismatic, responsible, quick-witted leading man who just so happens to have Down syndrome.