For longtime Channel Awesome filmmaker James Jarosz, creating original science-fiction entertainment has always been a passion. Now, that passion is taking center stage with Space Trash, an upcoming web series that combines independent filmmaking, imaginative production design, and the collaborative talent behind one of the internet’s most recognizable entertainment platforms.
In an exclusive interview with Stream Punk Entertainment, Jarosz and fellow Channel Awesome creator Walter Banasiak discussed the development of Space Trash, the challenges of independent production, and the opportunities that digital platforms offer filmmakers looking to bring original stories to audiences.
Bringing a Creative Vision to Life
Jarosz has spent years working behind the scenes at Channel Awesome, contributing to productions while developing his skills in writing, directing, acting, and production design.
With Space Trash, he saw an opportunity to bring those talents together in a project that was uniquely his own.
The concept originated when Jarosz was just 18 years old. Although the original screenplay remained an idea he hoped to revisit, his experience working on other productions eventually provided an opportunity to begin filming.
Approximately a decade ago, Jarosz received approval to pursue an independent project at Channel Awesome’s original studio. His goal was to create something that showcased his storytelling abilities while demonstrating what could be accomplished through practical production design.
The initial installment received encouraging reactions, although the project subsequently spent several years awaiting completion.
Overcoming Unexpected Production Challenges
Following the COVID-19 pandemic, Jarosz revisited Space Trash and began considering whether the original concept could be expanded into a web series.
With support from Channel Awesome, production resumed, and the team completed filming three episodes.
However, an unexpected setback interrupted their progress when a tornado struck the studio.
The damage and resulting loss of production space forced the team to part with numerous sets, costumes, and props, temporarily bringing the project to a halt.
Rather than abandoning the concept, Jarosz continued exploring ways to finish the series.
That persistence would eventually lead to a new opportunity.
Channel Awesome Supports Original Filmmaking
A significant turning point came through Banasiak’s AdBreak, an original production supported by Channel Awesome the previous year.
The experience demonstrated the potential for the company to support additional independent filmmaking projects beyond its familiar online programming.
When another planned production proved difficult to complete within the available schedule, Jarosz proposed returning to Space Trash.
The idea gained support, allowing the team to resume work and recently complete filming a concluding installment.
According to Jarosz, the first three episodes are expected to arrive toward the end of October, with the conclusion tentatively planned for December.
A Collaborative Approach to Science Fiction
One of the defining characteristics of Space Trash is its emphasis on hands-on filmmaking.
Jarosz has contributed extensively to the project’s production design, helping create the environments and visual elements necessary to bring its science-fiction setting to life.
Banasiak praised the craftsmanship involved, particularly the work that went into developing the spaceship environments.
The production also benefits from Channel Awesome’s established network of creative professionals, combining longtime collaborators with newer filmmaking talent.
For both filmmakers, the opportunity to create original projects through an established digital platform represents an exciting direction for independent entertainment.
Jarosz explained that his ambition was never necessarily to pursue a traditional Hollywood career. His goal was to make movies, and Channel Awesome has provided an avenue to pursue that dream.
Space Trash Prepares for Its Debut
Space Trash is also being promoted in connection with the Chicago Southland International Film Festival’s Fright Night Film Fest on October 30, where Jarosz and Banasiak are among the featured filmmakers.
With its upcoming release, the project represents another step in Channel Awesome’s exploration of original storytelling.
For Jarosz, it is an opportunity to share a science-fiction world he has spent years developing while demonstrating what passionate independent filmmakers can accomplish through creativity, collaboration, and persistence.
And for audiences familiar with Channel Awesome, Space Trash offers a chance to experience a different side of the talented team behind the platform.
