Westbrook and Malar Develop Series Inspired by Smith’s Rise

Westbrook Studios and The Malar Group are developing 215, a scripted series inspired by Will Smith and DJ Jazzy Jeff’s early careers in Philadelphia. The project is the first under a partnership between the companies to develop and finance a slate of film and television productions. The announcement did not indicate that the series has entered production or name a release date. The series is set in West Philadelphia in the late 1980s and follows a teenage rapper, his DJ friend and their circle as they pursue a record deal while the city’s hip-hop scene grows. The companies describe the story as drawing on the rise of Smith and DJ Jazzy Jeff, who performed together as DJ Jazzy Jeff & the Fresh Prince. The project’s title, 215, refers to Philadelphia’s area code. According to the series description, the characters navigate label meetings, loyalty to their hometown, sudden fame and the strains and support of friendship. The companies frame the story around ambition and brotherhood, and the period when hip-hop was moving from local scenes toward a wider audience.