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New audio commentary version of Amazon’s ‘Transparent’ gives behind-the-scenes look

Transparent fans can now feed their addiction to the Amazon original series by watching an alternate version, now available on Instant Video to Prime members. The online retailer announced this week that it has released an audio commentary version of the Golden Globe-winning first season, providing behind-the-scenes perspectives. Show creator Jill Soloway and stars Jeffrey Tambor, Judith Light, Gaby Hoffman, Amy Landecker, and Jay Duplass all contributed their memories, insight, and opinions.

With the second season of Transparent not due to be released until later this year, fans can at least get some of their burning questions about the series answered. According to Soloway, people frequently approach her wanting to know more about how the show came together. “With this audio commentary, they can hear it for themselves — whether we’re reminiscing about the technicalities of production or just showcasing some of the chemistry we shared,” she says. “I can’t wait for our fans to sink their teeth into some of our behind-the-scenes goodness.”

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Critically acclaimed and wildly popular, Transparent follows the Pfefferman family as their secrets start to unravel after the family patriarch, Mort, transitions to life as a woman. Listening to the new version, viewers will learn how real life influenced art in the creation of Transparent. For example, the idea for Josh to store love notes from his ex-babysitter, Rita, in cereal boxes was courtesy of Jim Frohna, the Director of Photography, who stealthily used the same hiding spot during a relationship in college. Also inspired by reality was the dialogue in episode four where Ali and Sarah have their first conversation after being reintroduced to their dad, now Maura; it was based on a conversation between Soloway and her sister Faith, a staff writer.

Like the original version of the first season—which was released using the Netflix binge formula—the commentary episodes were added to Instant Watch all at once. We doubt an alternate version will inspire quite the same desire to binge, but more power to those who try.

Stephanie Topacio Long
Stephanie Topacio Long is a writer and editor whose writing interests range from business to books. She also contributes to…
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