What will be scarier, MySpace's new Web series or its viewership numbers?

MySpace is trying to reinvent itself as a content hub, and it's turning to Paramount's digital group for some help. This week, the social-networking site launched a new Web-only series called "Circle of Eight," a spooky horror-movie-ish show about a girl from the farm moving into a mysterious building in L.A. Based on the first episode, it's not terrible—it's about on par with those movies you might see on SyFy on a Saturday night, such as the recent Mega Shark vs. Giant Octopus. OK, maybe that's not fair. But you have to wonder who is going to watch this show, which is somewhat reminiscent of lonelygirl15 (an overarching mystery, good looking young people, a puzzle for viewers). Original scripted series on the Web have struggled to attract audiences, and advertisers have been wary. So far, the trailer (above) has generated only 1,700 views on YouTube.  But "Circle of Eight" has lined up solid advertisers, including Peter Jackson's upcoming movie The Lovely Bones. Plus, it's got star power, including the geeky guy from Road Trip. And judging by this screen shot, Will Ferrell apparently has a cameo!

—Posted by Mike Shields