RI-produced documentary 'Serling' to premiere at South by Southwest

The film about "Twilight Zone" creator Rod Serling includes reenactments shot in Rhode Island.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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Verdi Productions' documentary about the life of television legend Rod Serling, creator of "The Twilight Zone," will have its world premiere in March at the South by Southwest film festival in Austin, Texas. The film includes archival footage, live-action reenactments, and is told in Serling's own words, drawing from never-before-heard recordings and personal dictations.

Why it matters

The documentary provides an in-depth look at the life and legacy of one of television's most influential and visionary storytellers, shedding light on Serling's experiences during the war, the challenges of fame, and his hopes for America. The reenactment scenes filmed in Rhode Island add a local connection to the production.

The details

Directed by Jonah Tulis, "Serling" is authorized by Serling's daughters, Jodi and Anne. The reenactment scenes were filmed in East Greenwich, Providence, and Wakefield, and star Cranston's Tom DeNucci as Serling. The production was a collaboration between Verdi Productions and Leonardo DiCaprio's Appian Way.

  • The documentary will have its world premiere in March at the South by Southwest film festival in Austin, Texas.
  • Verdi Productions will host a Rhode Island premiere this summer, with a nationwide release expected in the fall.

The players

Verdi Productions

An East Greenwich-based production company that produced the documentary "Serling" about the life of Rod Serling.

Rod Serling

The television personality best known for creating the iconic series "The Twilight Zone." The documentary explores his life and legacy.

Jonah Tulis

The director of the documentary "Serling."

Tom DeNucci

A Cranston-based actor who stars as Rod Serling in the reenactment scenes filmed in Rhode Island for the documentary.

Leonardo DiCaprio

The acclaimed actor and producer who collaborated with Verdi Productions through his production company, Appian Way, on the "Serling" documentary.

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What’s next

Verdi Productions will host a Rhode Island premiere of the "Serling" documentary this summer, with a nationwide release expected in the fall.

The takeaway

The "Serling" documentary provides an intimate and immersive look at the life and legacy of one of television's most influential and visionary storytellers, offering a unique perspective on Serling's experiences and the impact of his work. The local connection through the Rhode Island-filmed reenactment scenes adds a special touch to the production.