Founders
About
3rd Week of January Productions is an independent film, television, and theater production company founded by writer, director, and producer Blake Martin. Based in Chicago, the company is dedicated to developing bold, character-driven stories that amplify underrepresented voices while exploring themes of identity, relationships, healing, and social justice. Its mission centers on creating emotionally authentic, culturally resonant projects that bridge independent artistry with mainstream appeal.
The company’s growing slate spans stage productions, scripted television, and feature film development. Among its early projects is the original drama series Sunday Evenings, created and directed by Blake Martin and executive produced by actress and producer Cynthia Kaye McWilliams through her CynCity Productions banner. The series explores the unraveling marriage of two popular podcast hosts while highlighting nuanced Black LGBTQ+ representation and themes of truth, forgiveness, and personal growth. The production has garnered attention for its authentic storytelling and growing audience, helping establish 3rd Week of January Productions as an emerging independent studio.
The company has also expanded into live theater with Blake Martin’s original stage play The 4th Wall, a socially conscious drama that challenges audiences to confront issues surrounding justice, incarceration, and empathy through an immersive theatrical experience.
Beyond its television and theatrical projects, 3rd Week of January Productions continues to expand its footprint in independent cinema through an ambitious slate of original short films. The company’s latest initiative is a character-driven anthology of dramatic shorts written and directed by founder Blake Martin, beginning with On Hold, starring Ronnie Hudson II. Exploring themes of redemption, identity, grief, relationships, and personal transformation, the series showcases Martin’s signature emotionally grounded storytelling while providing opportunities for emerging actors and filmmakers to collaborate on professionally produced independent films. Additional titles are expected to be announced as the slate progresses.
By combining compelling narratives with diverse creative talent, 3rd Week of January Productions continues to build a reputation for producing impactful, thought-provoking entertainment across multiple platforms.
