There was a mic drop moment at the end of an event in New York City celebrating 30 years of “The X-Files” when series creator Chris Carter reignited the debate around Dana Scully’s pregnancy.
Towards the end of “My Struggle IV,” the series finale episode in Season 11, Scully (Gillian Anderson) informs Fox Mulder (David Duchovny) that William (Miles Robbins) is not their son. He was an “experiment,” an “idea born in a laboratory” that she bore, Scully says. Mulder tries to come to terms with this revelation and says: “What am I now if I’m not a father?” Scully replies: “You are a father.” When Mulder asks: “What are you talking about?,” Scully places his hand on her stomach. “That’s impossible,” Mulder says and Scully replies, “I know, it’s more than impossible.”
The reveal led to a raging debate among X-philes and in a 2018 interview with The Hollywood Reporter,...
Towards the end of “My Struggle IV,” the series finale episode in Season 11, Scully (Gillian Anderson) informs Fox Mulder (David Duchovny) that William (Miles Robbins) is not their son. He was an “experiment,” an “idea born in a laboratory” that she bore, Scully says. Mulder tries to come to terms with this revelation and says: “What am I now if I’m not a father?” Scully replies: “You are a father.” When Mulder asks: “What are you talking about?,” Scully places his hand on her stomach. “That’s impossible,” Mulder says and Scully replies, “I know, it’s more than impossible.”
The reveal led to a raging debate among X-philes and in a 2018 interview with The Hollywood Reporter,...
- 5/5/2024
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
In 1993, the pilot episode of a science fiction series that was predicted to last no more than one season debuted on television. The show lived for nine years, amassed a powerful fandom, and was forever ingrained in popular culture. It also spawned a worthy spin-off that was undeservedly canceled and forgotten.
Fans of The X-Files don't need to be told who The Lone Gunmen are. They are a group of journalists who investigate mystical events, expose government conspiracies, and watch over the mental health of ordinary citizens.
The Lone Gunmen Was a Show Ahead of Its Time
In its own way, The Lone Gunmen, released in 2001, was ahead of its time – in the early 2000s, audiences were not yet ready for spin-offs, and the original The X-Files was still quite successful on TV at the time; viewers simply opted for the more serious and predictable Mulder and Scully.
The fans,...
Fans of The X-Files don't need to be told who The Lone Gunmen are. They are a group of journalists who investigate mystical events, expose government conspiracies, and watch over the mental health of ordinary citizens.
The Lone Gunmen Was a Show Ahead of Its Time
In its own way, The Lone Gunmen, released in 2001, was ahead of its time – in the early 2000s, audiences were not yet ready for spin-offs, and the original The X-Files was still quite successful on TV at the time; viewers simply opted for the more serious and predictable Mulder and Scully.
The fans,...
- 4/28/2024
- by zoe-wallace@startefacts.com (Zoe Wallace)
- STartefacts.com
From the tiniest micro-organism to the far reaches of the universe, sci-fi adaptations have made a triumphant splash across multiple streaming platforms. For decades, the collective groans that routinely followed book-to-tv adaptation announcements were a given.
At the same time, many science fiction books are so steeped in lore, character motivations, politics, and scientific complexities that converting prose to a "show but don't tell" format is a tall task.
Star Trek, for instance, has historically been pretty cut and dry with its science. A phaser will vaporize you, and a transporter will, well, transport you.
Now, imagine explaining the three-body problem from a show but don't tell approach.
Thankfully, the rash of exciting new sci-fi adventures solves these riddles with filmmakers and writers who are passionate about the material.
The 3 Body Problem is practically the face of Netflix right now, while Apple TV+ is going all in with upcoming adaptations...
At the same time, many science fiction books are so steeped in lore, character motivations, politics, and scientific complexities that converting prose to a "show but don't tell" format is a tall task.
Star Trek, for instance, has historically been pretty cut and dry with its science. A phaser will vaporize you, and a transporter will, well, transport you.
Now, imagine explaining the three-body problem from a show but don't tell approach.
Thankfully, the rash of exciting new sci-fi adventures solves these riddles with filmmakers and writers who are passionate about the material.
The 3 Body Problem is practically the face of Netflix right now, while Apple TV+ is going all in with upcoming adaptations...
- 4/22/2024
- by Thomas Godwin
- TVfanatic
In the episode of "The X-Files" called "Bad Blood," Agents Scully (Gillian Anderson) and Mulder (David Duchovny) have to get their story straight after Mulder murders a young man (Patrick Renna) believing him to be a vampire. Know immediately that "Bad Blood" is one of the rare comedy episodes of "The X-Files," and that it is deeply beloved by X-Philes the world over. Indeed, /Film listed it as the best episode of the series, replacing the show's usual funereal tone with one of whimsy. This is an episode wherein Mulder, when knocked in the head, uncontrollably begins singing "Theme from Shaft."
"Bad Blood" is told in a pair of flashbacks, telling slightly different versions of the same event, "Rashomon"-style. Scully recalls investigating a series of mysterious cattle exsanguinations in Texas and is careful to relate Mulder's behavior as cavalier and condescending. She also notes that there was no evidence of vampires.
"Bad Blood" is told in a pair of flashbacks, telling slightly different versions of the same event, "Rashomon"-style. Scully recalls investigating a series of mysterious cattle exsanguinations in Texas and is careful to relate Mulder's behavior as cavalier and condescending. She also notes that there was no evidence of vampires.
- 3/27/2024
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
The X-Files: Fight the Future (watch it Here). Mulder and Scully on the big screen. That’s it. Need I say more? After 119 episodes, a movie was inevitable. While Chris Carter was happy with the success that the show had generated, he wanted to make more x-philes. Carter saw the movie as an opportunity to reach an even wider audience and make any skeptics true believers, but also reward current fans. Crafting a feature film also meant the ability to be able to dive deeper into the alien mythology that the series had been slowly weaving.
Making the leap from the small screen to the big screen was quite the undertaking. Carter explained that since they had been writing mini-movies, creating a full-length feature film felt like the next logical progression. Juggling the production of 24 episodes for The X-Files and another 24 for the spin-off Millennium was no easy feat. So,...
Making the leap from the small screen to the big screen was quite the undertaking. Carter explained that since they had been writing mini-movies, creating a full-length feature film felt like the next logical progression. Juggling the production of 24 episodes for The X-Files and another 24 for the spin-off Millennium was no easy feat. So,...
- 3/26/2024
- by Niki Minter
- JoBlo.com
Lille, France — The big news at Series Mania was Warner Bros. Discovery’s European roll-out timeline for Max, announced Thursday at the climax of the Series Mania’s Lille Dialogues.
The most keenly anticipated session was nearly Series Mania’ Forum first: a Netflix showcase hosted by a confident Larry Tanz who significantly proved the only goal streamer exec to drill down on volume commitment.
Nobody was saying at Series Mania the industry is in an easy place. But signs at this year’s edition that, at least in Europe, business may be turning a corner, or at least has the corner in sight. The newest normal will be a far cry from the peak TV of old, however.
Final attendance soared to 4,200 at the Forum, an all-time record. That’s hardly surprising. “You have all the French broadcasters there, a lot of European public broadcasters, a few Scandinavian commercial channels and some platforms.
The most keenly anticipated session was nearly Series Mania’ Forum first: a Netflix showcase hosted by a confident Larry Tanz who significantly proved the only goal streamer exec to drill down on volume commitment.
Nobody was saying at Series Mania the industry is in an easy place. But signs at this year’s edition that, at least in Europe, business may be turning a corner, or at least has the corner in sight. The newest normal will be a far cry from the peak TV of old, however.
Final attendance soared to 4,200 at the Forum, an all-time record. That’s hardly surprising. “You have all the French broadcasters there, a lot of European public broadcasters, a few Scandinavian commercial channels and some platforms.
- 3/22/2024
- by John Hopewell, Elsa Keslassy, Marta Balaga and Ben Croll
- Variety Film + TV
Constantin Film and Big Light Productions has tapped Christian Schwochow, whose credits include “The Crown,” “Munich: The Edge of War” and “Bad Banks,” to direct its upcoming high-profile drama series “Nuremberg,” based on the Nuremberg Trials. The show will be written by Frank Spotnitz, whose credits include “The Man in the High Castle,” “Ransom” and “Leonardo.”
The series follows young survivors of World War II who go to work for Allied prosecutors trying Nazi criminals in Nuremberg, only to find their quest for justice undermined by secret efforts to build a new world order based on power, not principle.
Schwochow said: “The Nuremberg Trials marked a pivotal moment in human history, ushering in a new age of responsibility and justice. This is a story of humanity grappling with its deepest shadows. Its relevance has never been greater, and I am filled with a humble sense of duty to tell this story faithfully.
The series follows young survivors of World War II who go to work for Allied prosecutors trying Nazi criminals in Nuremberg, only to find their quest for justice undermined by secret efforts to build a new world order based on power, not principle.
Schwochow said: “The Nuremberg Trials marked a pivotal moment in human history, ushering in a new age of responsibility and justice. This is a story of humanity grappling with its deepest shadows. Its relevance has never been greater, and I am filled with a humble sense of duty to tell this story faithfully.
- 3/20/2024
- by Leo Barraclough
- Variety Film + TV
Christian Schwochow has signed up to direct Nuremberg, the upcoming Constantin Film and Big Light Productions scripted series based on events surrounding the Nuremberg trials that took place in the wake of World War Two.
Schwochow directed hit German series Bad Banks and well as episodes of Netflix’s The Crown. Nuremberg will follow young survivors of the second world war who go to work for Allied prosecutors trying Nazi criminals, only to find their quest for justice undercut by secret efforts to build a new world order.
Constantin Film and Frank Spotnitz’s Big Light Productions are producing. Spotnitz is penning the script.
“The Nuremberg Trials marked a pivotal moment in human history, ushering in a new age of responsibility and justice,” Schwochow said. “This is a story of humanity grappling with its deepest shadows. Its relevance has never been greater, and I am filled with a humble sense...
Schwochow directed hit German series Bad Banks and well as episodes of Netflix’s The Crown. Nuremberg will follow young survivors of the second world war who go to work for Allied prosecutors trying Nazi criminals, only to find their quest for justice undercut by secret efforts to build a new world order.
Constantin Film and Frank Spotnitz’s Big Light Productions are producing. Spotnitz is penning the script.
“The Nuremberg Trials marked a pivotal moment in human history, ushering in a new age of responsibility and justice,” Schwochow said. “This is a story of humanity grappling with its deepest shadows. Its relevance has never been greater, and I am filled with a humble sense...
- 3/20/2024
- by Stewart Clarke
- Deadline Film + TV
Shōgun is one of the best beautiful and intense action drama series ever. Based on a 1975 novel of the same name by James Clavell, the FX series is adapted for television by Rachel Kondo and Justin Marks. Set in the year 1600 in Japan, the historical series follows the story of Lord Yoshii Toranaga as enemies unite and come to take his life, but he sees an opportunity when a mysterious European ship is found marooned in a village nearby. Shōgun has a brilliant ensemble cast including Hiroyuki Sanada, Cosmo Jarvis, Anna Sawai, Néstor Carbonell, and Fumi Nikaido. So, if you loved the beautiful imagery and ruthless action of Shōgun, then you should check out these shows next.
Medici: Masters of Florence (Netflix) Credit – Rai
Medici: Masters of Florence is not big on action but if you loved all the politics and scheming in Shōgun, then it might be right up your alley.
Medici: Masters of Florence (Netflix) Credit – Rai
Medici: Masters of Florence is not big on action but if you loved all the politics and scheming in Shōgun, then it might be right up your alley.
- 2/29/2024
- by Kulwant Singh
- Cinema Blind
The Film Arcade Acquires Ukrainian Drama From Troy Ruptash
Exclusive: Writer-director Troy Ruptash’s directorial debut They Who Surround Us — which he also starred in, wrote, and produced – has been acquired by The Film Arcade. Ruptash is best known as an actor in projects like The Young Pope, playing Marc Maron’s brother, Josh Maron on his IFC show Maron, and as Don Draper on Mad Men. He is repped as an actor by SMS in the U.S. and The Characters Agency in Canada. He is managed by Jess Canty and Mark Sonoda at Cinterra Entertainment. Following the acquisition of They Who Surround Us, Ruptash has signed with Joe Fronk at Iag for literary representation.
Newen Takes Full Control Of Spain’s Kubik Films
Newen Studios has taken full control of Spanish La Zona producer Kubik Films. Newen took a minority stake in Alberto and Jorge Sánchez-Cabezudo’s company...
Exclusive: Writer-director Troy Ruptash’s directorial debut They Who Surround Us — which he also starred in, wrote, and produced – has been acquired by The Film Arcade. Ruptash is best known as an actor in projects like The Young Pope, playing Marc Maron’s brother, Josh Maron on his IFC show Maron, and as Don Draper on Mad Men. He is repped as an actor by SMS in the U.S. and The Characters Agency in Canada. He is managed by Jess Canty and Mark Sonoda at Cinterra Entertainment. Following the acquisition of They Who Surround Us, Ruptash has signed with Joe Fronk at Iag for literary representation.
Newen Takes Full Control Of Spain’s Kubik Films
Newen Studios has taken full control of Spanish La Zona producer Kubik Films. Newen took a minority stake in Alberto and Jorge Sánchez-Cabezudo’s company...
- 12/11/2023
- by Zac Ntim and Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Another Mipcom is nearing the finish line, with tired and weary sales execs catching their flights or following up on leads from the comfort of their own homes or offices today. Set against a backdrop of ongoing labor action in the U.S. and a European TV sector hit hard by recession, the annual Cannes confab was billed as one that would prove content licensing was back with a bang (more on that below) and there was evidence of this on the ground. The focus on co-productions and emerging technologies such as AI and Fast channels also pointed to a mixed ecology for international TV, as sales houses looked for new ways to distribute their content. There was much talk of how the era of content mega-spend is over, with expensive limited miniseries not expected to be a key focus for streamers going forwards.. Here, we’ve boiled down the key trends and talking points from telly’s biggest get-together.
Correction & contraction L to R: Paramount’s Dan Cohen, Lisa Kramer and Bob Bakish
It was all anyone could talk about really. As buyers sniffed out the best deals and sellers gathered to flog their wares, there was an across-the-board recognition that never again will the market be able to sustain the mass proliferation of content that hit the TV industry in the early part of this decade. With market correction comes falling budgets and content licensing has only become more crucial (remember the forecasted death of distribution?), attendees said time and time again, reiterating the importance that Mipcom plays in the annual TV calendar. Paramount boss Bob Bakish (above right) used his Personality of the Year acceptance speech to passionately reaffirm the Yellowstone giant’s commitment to content licensing. “While our peers were pulling back content and putting up walled gardens, we never left,” he said. BBC Studios distribution boss Rebecca Glashow, meanwhile, was bullish in the face of the contraction, positing that “moments like this are when creativity comes back for the industry” on a panel alongside content boss Ralph Lee. Those Deadline spoke with in private were perhaps a little less bullish, with many uncertain about the futures of their respective local production businesses and the wider international TV sector. With the actors strike rumbling on, there was a general feeling of concern that buyers are rowing back to the extent that the production sector may have to quite dramatically shrink, while commissioners’ current penchant for risk aversion was repeatedly raised as “problematic.” The death of the high-end limited series was floated by many, as buyers stressed the need for populist content that can be returnable at a decent price point. The phrase “escapist content” was uttered to us more than once. This also follows the line we’ve heard several times over recent months that while the labor strikes could have alerted U.S. producers to the cheaper costs of shooting in Europe, it hasn’t actually played out that way. On a Deadline-chaired panel yesterday, The X Files EP Frank Spotnitz said budgets had become “obnoxious” in recent years following the entrance of the streamers, as he communicated fears that recent industry diversity gains could be impacted by these shifts. There was a sense, from producers, that they will need to hold firm and ride this out, with commissioning levels over the coming 12 months very hard to predict.
Eva the professional Eva Longoria and Cris Abrego during their keynote on Monday
Delegates crammed into the Grand Auditorium on Monday afternoon to catch sight of Desperate Housewives actress, producer and activist Eva Longoria, who used her keynote alongside Banijay Americas Chair Cris Abrego to announce a Banijay-backed venture, Hyphenate Media Group. The name represents the multi-hyphenate working lives of its owners — Longoria referred to herself as a “producer-director who fell into acting,” while Abrego is known for his formational role in Hollywood-made reality TV, C-suite roles and as a best-selling author. “That multi-hyphenate is not surviving in Hollywood because the industry wants you to stay in your lane, particularly women,” said Longoria of why she launched the new biz. “I realized it’s not just me who feels this way. I know creators who are being suffocated by the system so Hyphenate will create the ultimate model.” Abrego remains in his role at Banijay, which brought dozens of top-level execs to Cannes, and will divide his time between the jobs. Hyphenate has also consolidated Longoria’s UnbeliEVAble Entertainment into the fold. On stage, the pair used the word “hyphenate” a dizzying amount of times, with Abrego explaining that both have had to duck and weave through Hollywood to become two of the town’s highest profile Latino entertainment figures. Elsewhere, the ever-captivating EbonyLife CEO Mo Abudu touched on similar themes of othering when she called out commissioners for refusing to consider African stories — and, by extension, budgets — in the same breath as those from the U.S. and Europe.
To the Max
At Deadline Towers at least, there had been real anticipation about Gerhard Zeiler’s Monday Morning Media Mastermind address. Appearing alongside Emea streaming chief Leah Hooper Rosa, the Warner Bros. Discovery (Wbd) President of International came into his talk off the back of a series of top-levels management departures and with the industry itching to learn when they could expect Max to replace HBO Max internationally. Zeiler dealt with the second point in detail but not the first. He revealed 22 Max launches in Europe next year (these territories already have HBO Max) along with a second wave later in 2024 that will include France and Belgium. Zeiler also touched on synergies. When Warner Bros and Discovery merged, David Zaslav talked about $3B in savings through synergies, and though the company has faced huge criticism for thousands of redundancies, yanking shows off of streamers and cancelling film releases to service that strategy, the figure has steadily risen. Zeiler, somewhat provocatively, revealed the $3B figure was now “on the way” to $5B, adding: “Who knows where we will end up?” However, there was nothing was said on the exits of Priya Dogra, Robert Blair and others in Europe, which was somewhat surprising given the high-profile nature of these departures.
Kids are alright “Cocomelon”
Never has owning recognizable IP been more important, and in few genres is IP more important than in children’s. With a well-attended Mip Junior once again preceding the main confab, multiple sources told Deadline they were eager to push into the sometimes-lucrative kids content game, and execs from the likes of Candle Media-backed Cocomelon outfit Moonbug spoke confidently. The recent rejig in streamer focus from subscriber growth to retention is a boon for kids content, one producer suggested. “Now it’s all about keeping families on the platform, and you need a strong children’s library to do that,” they added. Recent moves from some of the European majors in this space have been intriguing. Just prior to Mipcom, Studiocanal promoted TV boss Françoise Guyonnet to CEO Copyrights Group and EVP Kids’ Brands, signaling a move into children’s IP, while BBC Studios’ Lee and Glashow talked up the outfit’s recent decision to commercialize its kids production outfit. “Broadcasters and commissioners are falling back behind known IP,” added Lee of the thinking behind the decision. Kids IP is certainly known, and it appears we’ll be hearing plenty more from this section of the market over the coming months.
Deals & projects
Mipcom has changed a fair bit over the years and TV deals really have become a 365-days-per-year business but that doesn’t mean there weren’t some juicy handshakes and buzzy projects for delegates to their teeth into through the early part of the week. Leading the charge, we revealed James Franco-starring Mena TV series penned by Shades of Blue scribe Adi Hasak. On Sunday, we told you about Beach House Pictures doc Lost and Banijay Rights taking on Shine director Scott Hicks‘ projects about musician Ben Folds. Mediawan struck European deals for high-profile premiere series Zorro, Fremantle did similar for Channel 4 format The Piano and Planet Earth III sold to Australia. Perhaps the most fun market project doing the rounds was our exclusive on The Wombles being remade for TV, while we also brought news of Fast & Furious star Sung Kang’s The Ride Life doc series, a feature on Israel’s Supernova Music festival – site of the October 7 massacre – and Vix’s Todo Lo Que Fuimos. Plenty more here.
By the numbers Valery Hache/Afp via Getty Images
According to organizer Rx France, the 39th edition of the international sales and co-pro market attracted 11,000 executives from 100 countries, up by 200 from the 2022 figure. It’s always hard to know exactly how accurate figures like this are with an event of this scale, but it’s impossible to deny there wasn’t buzz and activity around non-stop. Keynotes were well attended and occasionally standing-room only but some still have seating sections closed off to fill space closer to speakers. Crucially, Rx noted more than 3,500 buyers were in town, which is important given all the talk around the return of third-party sales and co-pros. “Given the buzz from the stands, what the leaders have said on stage, and the sheer volume of content deals done, it is clear that third party sales and distribution are back,” was the way Mipcom Cannes Director Lucy Smith put it in a statement. “That concentration of activity in one place, at one time, can only be a catalyst to the international market overall,” she added. One criticism we heard on the ground from several sources was a perceived lack of U.S. companies present — though with the likes of Paramount and NBCUniversal coming out in force, and Disney back on the block in a more visible way, Rx might push back against that. Deadline also understands Netflix sent a small delegation, who kept fairly under the radar. The company can also point to its statistic that U.S. buyers made up the largest chunk, followed by the UK, France, Germany and Spain. Other numbers to chew on: More than 320 companies exhibited in and around the Palais des Festivals, including 31 pavilions (50 made their market debuts). China sent its biggest delegation since 2019 as it was named Country of Honour, comprising more than 300 delegates from 40 companies. Middle Eastern participation was up 50% year-on-year, a surprising stat given Israeli companies didn’t attend due to the ongoing conflict there, but we hear there was more presence from Turkey, the UAE and the wider Gcc region offsetting that fall. Security was tight with France on high alert following the murder of a school teacher following the Hamas-led attack on Israel, and queues to enter the Palais often snaked well back towards the marina. As Deadline headed out of town, eight airports (six when at the time of reporting yesterday) including the Cannes-friendly Nice, were evacuated as security threats were identified. Smith addressed the conflict just prior to Zeiler’s Monday keynote, saying her heart goes out to the thousands who have died and stressing the additional security.
Correction & contraction L to R: Paramount’s Dan Cohen, Lisa Kramer and Bob Bakish
It was all anyone could talk about really. As buyers sniffed out the best deals and sellers gathered to flog their wares, there was an across-the-board recognition that never again will the market be able to sustain the mass proliferation of content that hit the TV industry in the early part of this decade. With market correction comes falling budgets and content licensing has only become more crucial (remember the forecasted death of distribution?), attendees said time and time again, reiterating the importance that Mipcom plays in the annual TV calendar. Paramount boss Bob Bakish (above right) used his Personality of the Year acceptance speech to passionately reaffirm the Yellowstone giant’s commitment to content licensing. “While our peers were pulling back content and putting up walled gardens, we never left,” he said. BBC Studios distribution boss Rebecca Glashow, meanwhile, was bullish in the face of the contraction, positing that “moments like this are when creativity comes back for the industry” on a panel alongside content boss Ralph Lee. Those Deadline spoke with in private were perhaps a little less bullish, with many uncertain about the futures of their respective local production businesses and the wider international TV sector. With the actors strike rumbling on, there was a general feeling of concern that buyers are rowing back to the extent that the production sector may have to quite dramatically shrink, while commissioners’ current penchant for risk aversion was repeatedly raised as “problematic.” The death of the high-end limited series was floated by many, as buyers stressed the need for populist content that can be returnable at a decent price point. The phrase “escapist content” was uttered to us more than once. This also follows the line we’ve heard several times over recent months that while the labor strikes could have alerted U.S. producers to the cheaper costs of shooting in Europe, it hasn’t actually played out that way. On a Deadline-chaired panel yesterday, The X Files EP Frank Spotnitz said budgets had become “obnoxious” in recent years following the entrance of the streamers, as he communicated fears that recent industry diversity gains could be impacted by these shifts. There was a sense, from producers, that they will need to hold firm and ride this out, with commissioning levels over the coming 12 months very hard to predict.
Eva the professional Eva Longoria and Cris Abrego during their keynote on Monday
Delegates crammed into the Grand Auditorium on Monday afternoon to catch sight of Desperate Housewives actress, producer and activist Eva Longoria, who used her keynote alongside Banijay Americas Chair Cris Abrego to announce a Banijay-backed venture, Hyphenate Media Group. The name represents the multi-hyphenate working lives of its owners — Longoria referred to herself as a “producer-director who fell into acting,” while Abrego is known for his formational role in Hollywood-made reality TV, C-suite roles and as a best-selling author. “That multi-hyphenate is not surviving in Hollywood because the industry wants you to stay in your lane, particularly women,” said Longoria of why she launched the new biz. “I realized it’s not just me who feels this way. I know creators who are being suffocated by the system so Hyphenate will create the ultimate model.” Abrego remains in his role at Banijay, which brought dozens of top-level execs to Cannes, and will divide his time between the jobs. Hyphenate has also consolidated Longoria’s UnbeliEVAble Entertainment into the fold. On stage, the pair used the word “hyphenate” a dizzying amount of times, with Abrego explaining that both have had to duck and weave through Hollywood to become two of the town’s highest profile Latino entertainment figures. Elsewhere, the ever-captivating EbonyLife CEO Mo Abudu touched on similar themes of othering when she called out commissioners for refusing to consider African stories — and, by extension, budgets — in the same breath as those from the U.S. and Europe.
To the Max
At Deadline Towers at least, there had been real anticipation about Gerhard Zeiler’s Monday Morning Media Mastermind address. Appearing alongside Emea streaming chief Leah Hooper Rosa, the Warner Bros. Discovery (Wbd) President of International came into his talk off the back of a series of top-levels management departures and with the industry itching to learn when they could expect Max to replace HBO Max internationally. Zeiler dealt with the second point in detail but not the first. He revealed 22 Max launches in Europe next year (these territories already have HBO Max) along with a second wave later in 2024 that will include France and Belgium. Zeiler also touched on synergies. When Warner Bros and Discovery merged, David Zaslav talked about $3B in savings through synergies, and though the company has faced huge criticism for thousands of redundancies, yanking shows off of streamers and cancelling film releases to service that strategy, the figure has steadily risen. Zeiler, somewhat provocatively, revealed the $3B figure was now “on the way” to $5B, adding: “Who knows where we will end up?” However, there was nothing was said on the exits of Priya Dogra, Robert Blair and others in Europe, which was somewhat surprising given the high-profile nature of these departures.
Kids are alright “Cocomelon”
Never has owning recognizable IP been more important, and in few genres is IP more important than in children’s. With a well-attended Mip Junior once again preceding the main confab, multiple sources told Deadline they were eager to push into the sometimes-lucrative kids content game, and execs from the likes of Candle Media-backed Cocomelon outfit Moonbug spoke confidently. The recent rejig in streamer focus from subscriber growth to retention is a boon for kids content, one producer suggested. “Now it’s all about keeping families on the platform, and you need a strong children’s library to do that,” they added. Recent moves from some of the European majors in this space have been intriguing. Just prior to Mipcom, Studiocanal promoted TV boss Françoise Guyonnet to CEO Copyrights Group and EVP Kids’ Brands, signaling a move into children’s IP, while BBC Studios’ Lee and Glashow talked up the outfit’s recent decision to commercialize its kids production outfit. “Broadcasters and commissioners are falling back behind known IP,” added Lee of the thinking behind the decision. Kids IP is certainly known, and it appears we’ll be hearing plenty more from this section of the market over the coming months.
Deals & projects
Mipcom has changed a fair bit over the years and TV deals really have become a 365-days-per-year business but that doesn’t mean there weren’t some juicy handshakes and buzzy projects for delegates to their teeth into through the early part of the week. Leading the charge, we revealed James Franco-starring Mena TV series penned by Shades of Blue scribe Adi Hasak. On Sunday, we told you about Beach House Pictures doc Lost and Banijay Rights taking on Shine director Scott Hicks‘ projects about musician Ben Folds. Mediawan struck European deals for high-profile premiere series Zorro, Fremantle did similar for Channel 4 format The Piano and Planet Earth III sold to Australia. Perhaps the most fun market project doing the rounds was our exclusive on The Wombles being remade for TV, while we also brought news of Fast & Furious star Sung Kang’s The Ride Life doc series, a feature on Israel’s Supernova Music festival – site of the October 7 massacre – and Vix’s Todo Lo Que Fuimos. Plenty more here.
By the numbers Valery Hache/Afp via Getty Images
According to organizer Rx France, the 39th edition of the international sales and co-pro market attracted 11,000 executives from 100 countries, up by 200 from the 2022 figure. It’s always hard to know exactly how accurate figures like this are with an event of this scale, but it’s impossible to deny there wasn’t buzz and activity around non-stop. Keynotes were well attended and occasionally standing-room only but some still have seating sections closed off to fill space closer to speakers. Crucially, Rx noted more than 3,500 buyers were in town, which is important given all the talk around the return of third-party sales and co-pros. “Given the buzz from the stands, what the leaders have said on stage, and the sheer volume of content deals done, it is clear that third party sales and distribution are back,” was the way Mipcom Cannes Director Lucy Smith put it in a statement. “That concentration of activity in one place, at one time, can only be a catalyst to the international market overall,” she added. One criticism we heard on the ground from several sources was a perceived lack of U.S. companies present — though with the likes of Paramount and NBCUniversal coming out in force, and Disney back on the block in a more visible way, Rx might push back against that. Deadline also understands Netflix sent a small delegation, who kept fairly under the radar. The company can also point to its statistic that U.S. buyers made up the largest chunk, followed by the UK, France, Germany and Spain. Other numbers to chew on: More than 320 companies exhibited in and around the Palais des Festivals, including 31 pavilions (50 made their market debuts). China sent its biggest delegation since 2019 as it was named Country of Honour, comprising more than 300 delegates from 40 companies. Middle Eastern participation was up 50% year-on-year, a surprising stat given Israeli companies didn’t attend due to the ongoing conflict there, but we hear there was more presence from Turkey, the UAE and the wider Gcc region offsetting that fall. Security was tight with France on high alert following the murder of a school teacher following the Hamas-led attack on Israel, and queues to enter the Palais often snaked well back towards the marina. As Deadline headed out of town, eight airports (six when at the time of reporting yesterday) including the Cannes-friendly Nice, were evacuated as security threats were identified. Smith addressed the conflict just prior to Zeiler’s Monday keynote, saying her heart goes out to the thousands who have died and stressing the additional security.
- 10/19/2023
- by Jesse Whittock and Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Queen Elizabeth II may have popularized the phrase “annus horribilis” decades ago, but the Latin term feels more relevant than ever when thinking about the state of the U.S. TV sector in the last year.
Midway through 2022, the industry was rocked by an unanticipated Netflix subscriber slide that sent shockwaves through Wall Street. Since then, there have been a series of struggles for virtually all legacy studios and streamers, thousands and thousands of layoffs across the sector and dual labor strikes for the first time since a young Ronald Reagan was helming the actors’ union.
When it rains, it pours, as they say, but what did this all mean for the industry outside the States? As globalization has taken hold, the international business has become more intrinsically linked with the U.S. and is also largely driven by the streaming revolution.
Deadline has spoken to around a dozen creatives,...
Midway through 2022, the industry was rocked by an unanticipated Netflix subscriber slide that sent shockwaves through Wall Street. Since then, there have been a series of struggles for virtually all legacy studios and streamers, thousands and thousands of layoffs across the sector and dual labor strikes for the first time since a young Ronald Reagan was helming the actors’ union.
When it rains, it pours, as they say, but what did this all mean for the industry outside the States? As globalization has taken hold, the international business has become more intrinsically linked with the U.S. and is also largely driven by the streaming revolution.
Deadline has spoken to around a dozen creatives,...
- 10/17/2023
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Frank Spotnitz’s Big Light Productions, the company behind such hits as “The Man in the High Castle” and Rai’s “Leonardo,” has snagged the rights to L.M. Logan crime thriller novel “29 Seconds.”
Founded by its CEO Frank Spotnitz, who was also an executive producer and writer of the seminal sci-fi drama series “The X-Files,” Big Light is teaming up with Tomorrow Studios, producer of Netflix’s hit manga adaptation, “One Piece,” to adapt the bestseller as a limited drama series with the working title, “One Name.”
To be written by London School of Economics-educated and former lawyer Sara Collins, the psychological revenge thriller turns on Sarah, a university lecturer who faces harassment from her boss.
An encounter with a powerful figure offers her a deal to solve her problems with no consequences. A life-changing 29-second phone call will bring into question whether she is willing to risk...
Founded by its CEO Frank Spotnitz, who was also an executive producer and writer of the seminal sci-fi drama series “The X-Files,” Big Light is teaming up with Tomorrow Studios, producer of Netflix’s hit manga adaptation, “One Piece,” to adapt the bestseller as a limited drama series with the working title, “One Name.”
To be written by London School of Economics-educated and former lawyer Sara Collins, the psychological revenge thriller turns on Sarah, a university lecturer who faces harassment from her boss.
An encounter with a powerful figure offers her a deal to solve her problems with no consequences. A life-changing 29-second phone call will bring into question whether she is willing to risk...
- 10/16/2023
- by Anna Marie de la Fuente
- Variety Film + TV
Frank Spotnitz’s Big Light Productions, producers of The Man in the High Castle and Medici, has snatched up the adaptation rights to T.M. Logan’s hit novel 29 Seconds. Big Light will adapt the book as a limited drama series through the company’s first-look deal with ITV Studios partner Tomorrow Studios, which produced Netflix’s live-action Manga adaptation One Piece.
29 Seconds, T.M. Logan’s second novel, is a psychological revenge thriller centered around a woman facing harassment at work who is given the opportunity to make a single, 29-second phone call where she only has to say the name of her sex pest boss, and he will disappear forever.
The series adaptation, being developed under the working title One Name, will be executive produced by Spotnitz and Elizabeth Kesses from Ejk Productions, along with Marty Adelstein and Becky Clements from Tomorrow Studios. The series will be told from...
29 Seconds, T.M. Logan’s second novel, is a psychological revenge thriller centered around a woman facing harassment at work who is given the opportunity to make a single, 29-second phone call where she only has to say the name of her sex pest boss, and he will disappear forever.
The series adaptation, being developed under the working title One Name, will be executive produced by Spotnitz and Elizabeth Kesses from Ejk Productions, along with Marty Adelstein and Becky Clements from Tomorrow Studios. The series will be told from...
- 10/16/2023
- by Scott Roxborough
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Thriller writer T.M. Logan’s 29 Seconds is being adapted into a limited TV drama series by Frank Spotnitz’s Big Light Productions as part of its first look with One Piece maker Tomorrow Studios.
Under working title One Name, the series will be penned by ITV’s The Confessions of Frannie Langton scribe Sara Collins, with Big Light seeking pre-sales at this week’s Mipcom Cannes.
Published in 2018 by the prolific British author, 29 Seconds follows a lecturer at a top university whose intolerable and obsessive boss is making her life hell. Faced with a decision to leave and uproot her family, or continue to rebuff his persistent sexual advances, Sarah feels trapped, until an unexpected encounter with a powerful and dangerous man ends with her being owed a favour that could fix her problems forever.
“T.M. Logan is famed for his seriously addictive storytelling and gritty narratives that have audiences hooked worldwide,...
Under working title One Name, the series will be penned by ITV’s The Confessions of Frannie Langton scribe Sara Collins, with Big Light seeking pre-sales at this week’s Mipcom Cannes.
Published in 2018 by the prolific British author, 29 Seconds follows a lecturer at a top university whose intolerable and obsessive boss is making her life hell. Faced with a decision to leave and uproot her family, or continue to rebuff his persistent sexual advances, Sarah feels trapped, until an unexpected encounter with a powerful and dangerous man ends with her being owed a favour that could fix her problems forever.
“T.M. Logan is famed for his seriously addictive storytelling and gritty narratives that have audiences hooked worldwide,...
- 10/16/2023
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
The German co-produced science fiction TV series ‘The Swarm’ is adapted from Frank Schätzing’s same-named novel. The plot revolves around humankind’s struggle against an unfamiliar swarm of intelligence living in the depths of the sea. The series premiered on February 19, 2023.
Following is a list of other science fiction television series that you might be interested in if you are intrigued by the plot of ‘The Swarm’.
Also Read: Top 10 Television Series Like Still Up.
Top 10 Television Series Like The Swarm: Dark – Number of Seasons: 3 Vulture
Jantje Friese and Baran bo Odar created the German sci-fi thriller TV series the plot of which follows four estranged families and their members navigating through a sinister time travel conspiracy spanning several generations.
Set in the fictional town of Winden, Germany, the series unravels the existential implications of time and how it affects life and human nature. The series ran from December 1, 2017, to June 27, 2020, on Netflix.
Following is a list of other science fiction television series that you might be interested in if you are intrigued by the plot of ‘The Swarm’.
Also Read: Top 10 Television Series Like Still Up.
Top 10 Television Series Like The Swarm: Dark – Number of Seasons: 3 Vulture
Jantje Friese and Baran bo Odar created the German sci-fi thriller TV series the plot of which follows four estranged families and their members navigating through a sinister time travel conspiracy spanning several generations.
Set in the fictional town of Winden, Germany, the series unravels the existential implications of time and how it affects life and human nature. The series ran from December 1, 2017, to June 27, 2020, on Netflix.
- 9/7/2023
- by Suvechchha Saha
- https://dailyresearchplot.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/new-sam
Things changed forever on September 11, 2001, both in real life and in the world of entertainment. There's a clear line drawn through history; a pre-and-post 9/11 line. The most obvious example of this line is when you watch a film or TV show set in New York. If it was shot prior to 9/11, there's a good chance you'll see an establishing shot of the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center somewhere in there.
If you lived through the events, even seeing the Twin Towers in an older film or TV show can be a momentarily jarring experience. After the terrorist attacks, a trailer for Sam Raimi's "Spider-Man" showing a helicopter caught in a web strung between the towers became a kind of time capsule. Posters for the film that showed the World Trade Center reflected in Spidey's eye were pulled. And some films that came out shortly after the attacks...
If you lived through the events, even seeing the Twin Towers in an older film or TV show can be a momentarily jarring experience. After the terrorist attacks, a trailer for Sam Raimi's "Spider-Man" showing a helicopter caught in a web strung between the towers became a kind of time capsule. Posters for the film that showed the World Trade Center reflected in Spidey's eye were pulled. And some films that came out shortly after the attacks...
- 8/6/2023
- by Chris Evangelista
- Slash Film
Frank Spotnitz, “The X-Files” exec producer and “Medici” creator, will figure alongside Israeli producer Eilon Ratzkovsky and broadcaster-producer Johnathan Young as facilitators and mentors at the third edition of the Full Moon Creative Lab, a program open to European screenwriters specializing in thriller, horror and fantasy TV series.
Launched by the Romanian Film Promotion and Transilvania Intl. Film Festival, the Full Moon Creative Lab consists of creative residencies taking place in Romania’s Transylvania this October and in February and June 2024.
Ratzkovsky produced “The Band’s Visit,” a Cannes 2007 Un Certain Regard winner, and TV series “Sirens.” Young was the former VP of original programming and commissioning editor for Central and Eastern Europe at HBO Max.
Further experts take in Romania’s Geo Doba, a screenwriter and vice president of the alumni network for the Berlin-based Serial Eyes TV writing program; screenwriter and script doctor Gabriela Iacob, a former head of...
Launched by the Romanian Film Promotion and Transilvania Intl. Film Festival, the Full Moon Creative Lab consists of creative residencies taking place in Romania’s Transylvania this October and in February and June 2024.
Ratzkovsky produced “The Band’s Visit,” a Cannes 2007 Un Certain Regard winner, and TV series “Sirens.” Young was the former VP of original programming and commissioning editor for Central and Eastern Europe at HBO Max.
Further experts take in Romania’s Geo Doba, a screenwriter and vice president of the alumni network for the Berlin-based Serial Eyes TV writing program; screenwriter and script doctor Gabriela Iacob, a former head of...
- 7/25/2023
- by John Hopewell
- Variety Film + TV
Stv has confirmed the acquisition of Lego Masters firm Greenbird Media, following Deadline’s exclusive report yesterday in the UK.
The Scottish network’s production arm, Stv Studios, has paid an initial £21.4M ($27.2M) for the company, whose assets include majority stakes in Lego Masters maker Tuesday’s Child Television and Crackit Productions. Israel’s Keshet International was previously the majority owner, with a 60% stake.
Yesterday, we told you Stv was nearing a deal for Greenbird, whose sale has been in the works since last year.
The deal boosts the number of labels within Stv Studios from nine to 24, as it aims to become the UK’s top producer from outside of London — a sector known within the country’s TV sector as the nations and regions. Stv will get new bases in Glasgow and London, and offices in Cardiff, Belfast, Brighton and Manchester.
Greenbird founders Jamie Munro and Stuart...
The Scottish network’s production arm, Stv Studios, has paid an initial £21.4M ($27.2M) for the company, whose assets include majority stakes in Lego Masters maker Tuesday’s Child Television and Crackit Productions. Israel’s Keshet International was previously the majority owner, with a 60% stake.
Yesterday, we told you Stv was nearing a deal for Greenbird, whose sale has been in the works since last year.
The deal boosts the number of labels within Stv Studios from nine to 24, as it aims to become the UK’s top producer from outside of London — a sector known within the country’s TV sector as the nations and regions. Stv will get new bases in Glasgow and London, and offices in Cardiff, Belfast, Brighton and Manchester.
Greenbird founders Jamie Munro and Stuart...
- 7/6/2023
- by Jesse Whittock
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Scotland’s Stv is close to acquiring on-the-block Lego Masters production group Greenbird Media from Keshet International (Ki), Deadline understands.
The deal could be unveiled imminently, it is thought, and may amount to a figure in the tens of millions of pounds. Having been acquired from BBC Studios (then BBC Worldwide) in 2018, Greenbird, which is run by Jamie Munro and Stuart Mullin, first began exploring its options last year, though sources this week have said owner Keshet International did not officially put in on the block.
Headquartered in Scotland, Stv is a listed broadcasting and production company that turned over £138M last year. Its production arm, Stv Studios, is making the likes of Apple TV+ drama Criminal Record and was behind Channel 4’s Screw. MD David Mortimer recently told Broadcast he wants Stv Studios to be the “biggest nations and regions indie.”
When the deal closes, it would...
The deal could be unveiled imminently, it is thought, and may amount to a figure in the tens of millions of pounds. Having been acquired from BBC Studios (then BBC Worldwide) in 2018, Greenbird, which is run by Jamie Munro and Stuart Mullin, first began exploring its options last year, though sources this week have said owner Keshet International did not officially put in on the block.
Headquartered in Scotland, Stv is a listed broadcasting and production company that turned over £138M last year. Its production arm, Stv Studios, is making the likes of Apple TV+ drama Criminal Record and was behind Channel 4’s Screw. MD David Mortimer recently told Broadcast he wants Stv Studios to be the “biggest nations and regions indie.”
When the deal closes, it would...
- 7/5/2023
- by Max Goldbart and Jesse Whittock
- Deadline Film + TV
The challenges, opportunities, and above all anxieties wrought by the ongoing AI revolution were on just about everyone’s mind at a business panel held at the Monte-Carlo Television Festival this week, and which kicked off with a tone-setting disclaimer.
“We do not have the answers,” said moderator Mathilde Fiquet, who is secretary general of the European Audiovisual Production Association (Cepi). “So I think we’re all going to leave with more questions than answers, but we really need to have these discussions.”
“I haven’t spoken to a writer or director who isn’t absolutely terrified right now,” added Frank Spotnitz, the one-time “The X-Files” writer and “The Man in the High Castle” showrunner. “But being against AI [right now] would have been like being against automobiles or airplanes or the internet. It’s pointless; AI is coming.”
With that stipulation in mind, Spotnitz – whose more recent credits include “Leonardo” and “Medici” – admitted his own pessimism,...
“We do not have the answers,” said moderator Mathilde Fiquet, who is secretary general of the European Audiovisual Production Association (Cepi). “So I think we’re all going to leave with more questions than answers, but we really need to have these discussions.”
“I haven’t spoken to a writer or director who isn’t absolutely terrified right now,” added Frank Spotnitz, the one-time “The X-Files” writer and “The Man in the High Castle” showrunner. “But being against AI [right now] would have been like being against automobiles or airplanes or the internet. It’s pointless; AI is coming.”
With that stipulation in mind, Spotnitz – whose more recent credits include “Leonardo” and “Medici” – admitted his own pessimism,...
- 6/21/2023
- by Ben Croll
- Variety Film + TV
Without a market component, the Monte-Carlo Television Festival has nevertheless built out and bulked up its industry section with each passing edition. More than anything, the move came out of sheer practicality, says executive director Cécile Menoni.
“We realized that the professionals who were already present could benefit from certain professional content,” Menoni explains. “The idea was to involve the many people who were already in attendance. To federate the juries, nominees and journalists, and to convey their overall vision of cotemporary industry concerns.”
This year’s festival business program runs from June 17 – 19, beginning with a conversation moderated by Variety’s Leo Barraclough that will find Amazon Studio’s Rola Bauer and executive producer Edward Ornelas discussing the challenges and opportunities, casting choices and artistic ambitions of the festival’s opening series, “Harlan Corben’s Shelter.”
From there we’re off to the races with eight more conferences tackling the...
“We realized that the professionals who were already present could benefit from certain professional content,” Menoni explains. “The idea was to involve the many people who were already in attendance. To federate the juries, nominees and journalists, and to convey their overall vision of cotemporary industry concerns.”
This year’s festival business program runs from June 17 – 19, beginning with a conversation moderated by Variety’s Leo Barraclough that will find Amazon Studio’s Rola Bauer and executive producer Edward Ornelas discussing the challenges and opportunities, casting choices and artistic ambitions of the festival’s opening series, “Harlan Corben’s Shelter.”
From there we’re off to the races with eight more conferences tackling the...
- 6/17/2023
- by Ben Croll
- Variety Film + TV
Hello Insiders, Jesse Whittock here to take you through a scorching week in international TV and film. Don’t forget to subscribe. Let’s go.
Strike Goes Global
“What happens in America happens here”: More than 20 countries came together for a global day of solidarity Wednesday, as protestors showed support for striking scribes in the U.S. In the UK, Germany, France, Korea and many other places, writers around the world showed why shepherding the WGA through its labor dispute matters. We were on the ground in the UK and Germany, and in the former a succession (see what we did there) of senior scribes along with around 200 others lined up to show support, including Jesse Armstrong, Russell T. Davies, Jack Thorne, Charlie Brooker and, from across the pond, The Flash showrunner Eric Wallace. “What happens in America happens here,” declared Doctor Who showrunner Davies, who revealed to Deadline...
Strike Goes Global
“What happens in America happens here”: More than 20 countries came together for a global day of solidarity Wednesday, as protestors showed support for striking scribes in the U.S. In the UK, Germany, France, Korea and many other places, writers around the world showed why shepherding the WGA through its labor dispute matters. We were on the ground in the UK and Germany, and in the former a succession (see what we did there) of senior scribes along with around 200 others lined up to show support, including Jesse Armstrong, Russell T. Davies, Jack Thorne, Charlie Brooker and, from across the pond, The Flash showrunner Eric Wallace. “What happens in America happens here,” declared Doctor Who showrunner Davies, who revealed to Deadline...
- 6/16/2023
- by Jesse Whittock
- Deadline Film + TV
The Flash showrunner Eric Wallace will be telling fellow American writers “we are not in this alone” when he returns home from London later.
Wallace was one of more than 200 scribes who attended the Screenwriters Everywhere protest in the English capital this afternoon on behalf of WGA West and he told Deadline he feels “the whole world is literally with us.”
“I’ve met so many people from all over Europe today and it gives me strength when I go back to LA to tell fellow LA-based writers that we are not in this alone,” added Wallace, who has showran The CW’s superhero hit for the past three seasons.
Eric Wallace chats to ‘Doctor Who’ showrunner Russell T. Davies at the London protest
Wallace revealed that he delayed his flight by a day in order to come to the Leicester Square protest, which was also attended by the great...
Wallace was one of more than 200 scribes who attended the Screenwriters Everywhere protest in the English capital this afternoon on behalf of WGA West and he told Deadline he feels “the whole world is literally with us.”
“I’ve met so many people from all over Europe today and it gives me strength when I go back to LA to tell fellow LA-based writers that we are not in this alone,” added Wallace, who has showran The CW’s superhero hit for the past three seasons.
Eric Wallace chats to ‘Doctor Who’ showrunner Russell T. Davies at the London protest
Wallace revealed that he delayed his flight by a day in order to come to the Leicester Square protest, which was also attended by the great...
- 6/14/2023
- by Max Goldbart and Zac Ntim
- Deadline Film + TV
Good afternoon Insiders, Max Goldbart in the hotseat helming the only international TV and film newsletter you need to read this week. Scroll on. Sign up here.
Nordic & Cee Deep Dive
Rapid deterioration: Deadline’s in-depth analysis of the Danish TV market last week preceded one of the biggest shocks in the Scandi industry for decades. In the early hours of Monday morning, the region’s streaming powerhouse Viaplay issued a trading update signaling the immediate resignation of CEO Anders Jensen and the scorching of the group’s long-term financial guidance amidst rapid deterioration in the ad market and subscriber churn. Viaplay has been growing aggressively in recent years, greenlighting one original per week such as the high-profile Ronja the Robber’s Daughter adaptation (pictured), snapping up sports rights, and launching in key territories including the U.S., but it appears the growth has been a smidgeon too fast and stock has been tumbling.
Nordic & Cee Deep Dive
Rapid deterioration: Deadline’s in-depth analysis of the Danish TV market last week preceded one of the biggest shocks in the Scandi industry for decades. In the early hours of Monday morning, the region’s streaming powerhouse Viaplay issued a trading update signaling the immediate resignation of CEO Anders Jensen and the scorching of the group’s long-term financial guidance amidst rapid deterioration in the ad market and subscriber churn. Viaplay has been growing aggressively in recent years, greenlighting one original per week such as the high-profile Ronja the Robber’s Daughter adaptation (pictured), snapping up sports rights, and launching in key territories including the U.S., but it appears the growth has been a smidgeon too fast and stock has been tumbling.
- 6/9/2023
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
“We are sending a message that our content doesn’t have to cost a fortune to watch,” said the CEO of fledgling streamer SkyShowtime, who said there could be more bundling in the future.
Monty Sarhan took the reins of the Comcast/Paramount Global Jv last year and has since overseen the hiring of 180 staff across seven offices, a rollout to more than 20 European territories in which Comcast’s Peacock and Now TV, and Paramount+ aren’t present, and the commissioning of a number of original series.
Speaking to Deadline before a Nem keynote in Dubrovnik, he said SkyShowtime’s pricing structure had been forged in response to “double digit inflation, a cost-of-living crisis and with war raging in Ukraine.”
Monty Sarhan: “One of the important ways we can create value is by bundling”. Image: Nem
“We are leaning into a consumer value proposition that puts consumers at the forefront,...
Monty Sarhan took the reins of the Comcast/Paramount Global Jv last year and has since overseen the hiring of 180 staff across seven offices, a rollout to more than 20 European territories in which Comcast’s Peacock and Now TV, and Paramount+ aren’t present, and the commissioning of a number of original series.
Speaking to Deadline before a Nem keynote in Dubrovnik, he said SkyShowtime’s pricing structure had been forged in response to “double digit inflation, a cost-of-living crisis and with war raging in Ukraine.”
Monty Sarhan: “One of the important ways we can create value is by bundling”. Image: Nem
“We are leaning into a consumer value proposition that puts consumers at the forefront,...
- 6/7/2023
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Warner Bros. Discovery’s (Wbd) Jamie Cooke is supercharging “original documentaries that push the boundaries” from his Central & Eastern Europe, the Middle East and Turkey region by greenlighting around 10 docs per year.
Cooke took charge of the vast territory following the WarnerMedia/Discovery mega-merger and was speaking to Deadline prior to a Nem keynote as he nears one year in post.
While Wbd is taking a light-touch approach to ordering original content from the region, especially prior to the launch of the rebranded Max streamer, Cooke said it is documentaries where he is most looking to make an impact.
“Pushing the boundaries and shining a light on topics that are challenging is really important for me,” he told Deadline. “We need to be measured and cautious in the investments we are making right now and the focus for me is really on the docs side.”
The Discovery vet, who is...
Cooke took charge of the vast territory following the WarnerMedia/Discovery mega-merger and was speaking to Deadline prior to a Nem keynote as he nears one year in post.
While Wbd is taking a light-touch approach to ordering original content from the region, especially prior to the launch of the rebranded Max streamer, Cooke said it is documentaries where he is most looking to make an impact.
“Pushing the boundaries and shining a light on topics that are challenging is really important for me,” he told Deadline. “We need to be measured and cautious in the investments we are making right now and the focus for me is really on the docs side.”
The Discovery vet, who is...
- 6/6/2023
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Movistar’s fledgling distributor has struck its first slew of sales and is moving to the next stage, Gm Maria Valenzuela has revealed, as she discusses the Spanish giant’s attempt to reinvent the thriller genre and how the writers strike is gifting opportunities to spotlight international content.
Valenzuela took charge of Spain’s largest pay-tv/SVoD operator’s distributor Movistar Plus Internacional last year and the former Sony and Huawei exec said it has “been an incredible journey” so far.
The outfit is shopping the likes of Rapa Seasons 1 and 2 and Off World (Apagón), which have sold to Vix+ in the U.S. and LatAm, and is in the process of taking a bunch of new shows to market, which Valenzuela described as the “next step and the big challenge of the coming year” as she chatted to Deadline before a Nem keynote at the Dubrovnik market on Tuesday.
Valenzuela took charge of Spain’s largest pay-tv/SVoD operator’s distributor Movistar Plus Internacional last year and the former Sony and Huawei exec said it has “been an incredible journey” so far.
The outfit is shopping the likes of Rapa Seasons 1 and 2 and Off World (Apagón), which have sold to Vix+ in the U.S. and LatAm, and is in the process of taking a bunch of new shows to market, which Valenzuela described as the “next step and the big challenge of the coming year” as she chatted to Deadline before a Nem keynote at the Dubrovnik market on Tuesday.
- 6/6/2023
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Tomorrow Studios CEO/Partner Marty Adelstein and President/Partner Becky Clements have promoted Alissa Bachner to EVP, Development. With their expansion into feature film development, they have also hired Josh Bratman as Head of Features.
“As we continue our acquisition and development of unparalleled IP, and our work with the leading creatives in Hollywood, we want to maximize our storytelling ability for all formats and produce each project for the format that best tells its story, including opportunities for feature run/streamer double play,” said Adelstein and Clements in a joint statement. “Josh brings a keen eye for developing feature films to the team, and Alissa’s instincts for television are consistently unmatched. We are excited for the greatness to come from them.”
As EVP, Development, Bachner adds leadership of studio development deals to her role of developing and producing the company’s slate of TV dramas and comedies.
“As we continue our acquisition and development of unparalleled IP, and our work with the leading creatives in Hollywood, we want to maximize our storytelling ability for all formats and produce each project for the format that best tells its story, including opportunities for feature run/streamer double play,” said Adelstein and Clements in a joint statement. “Josh brings a keen eye for developing feature films to the team, and Alissa’s instincts for television are consistently unmatched. We are excited for the greatness to come from them.”
As EVP, Development, Bachner adds leadership of studio development deals to her role of developing and producing the company’s slate of TV dramas and comedies.
- 6/5/2023
- by Lynette Rice
- Deadline Film + TV
The “erosion of the power of writers in the U.S.” can serve as a “learning opportunity” for European storytellers, according to The X Files EP Frank Spotnitz.
Spotnitz called for a “set of core values that we can strive and live up to” alongside “practical concrete strategies in countries where resources are in short supply” to improve the quality of TV writing in Europe – the continent in which he has lived for the past 13 years and runs his production outfit, Big Light Productions.
Speaking at Nem in Dubrovnik, Spotnitz criticized the “folly” of American producers for “eroding the power of writers” in the U.S.
“If U.S. studios succeed in suppressing the power of American writers they may well save money but they also may well reduce the quality and long term success of their own businesses,” he added. “The folly of American producers can serve as a...
Spotnitz called for a “set of core values that we can strive and live up to” alongside “practical concrete strategies in countries where resources are in short supply” to improve the quality of TV writing in Europe – the continent in which he has lived for the past 13 years and runs his production outfit, Big Light Productions.
Speaking at Nem in Dubrovnik, Spotnitz criticized the “folly” of American producers for “eroding the power of writers” in the U.S.
“If U.S. studios succeed in suppressing the power of American writers they may well save money but they also may well reduce the quality and long term success of their own businesses,” he added. “The folly of American producers can serve as a...
- 6/5/2023
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Heading into its tenth edition next month, Nem Dubrovnik 2023 looks set to be its biggest event yet. Taking place from June 5-8 at the Dubrovnik Palace Hotel, the annual TV market will feature 11 keynote speakers as part of the program this year. They include: All3Media International CEO Louise Pedersen; SkyShowtime CEO Monty Sarhan; Sony Pictures Television’s EVP of Distribution and Networks Emea Mark Young; and United Group CEO Victoriya Boklag.
Further keynote speakers are: Warner Bros. Discovery’s Jamie Cooke; Cosmote TV exec director Dimitris Michalakis; Viaplay Group’s Vanda Rapti; Big Light Productions CEO Frank Spotnitz; Cme CEO Dušan Švalek; Movistar Plus+’s Maria Valenzuela; and Beta Film MD Moritz von Kruedener. Execs from Lionsgate, Mediawan Rights and BBC Studios are also set to be in attendance.
The opening session will be a tribute to 10 years of the Nem brand, where Sanja Božić-Ljubičić, founder and CEO, will moderate...
Further keynote speakers are: Warner Bros. Discovery’s Jamie Cooke; Cosmote TV exec director Dimitris Michalakis; Viaplay Group’s Vanda Rapti; Big Light Productions CEO Frank Spotnitz; Cme CEO Dušan Švalek; Movistar Plus+’s Maria Valenzuela; and Beta Film MD Moritz von Kruedener. Execs from Lionsgate, Mediawan Rights and BBC Studios are also set to be in attendance.
The opening session will be a tribute to 10 years of the Nem brand, where Sanja Božić-Ljubičić, founder and CEO, will moderate...
- 5/25/2023
- by Diana Lodderhose
- Deadline Film + TV
The Monte-Carlo Television Festival has revealed the nominees for its Golden Nymph Awards. The festival will open June 16 with the world premiere of the first episode of “Harlan Coben’s Shelter.”
Hollywood producer and writer Howard Gordon will receive the Honorary Golden Nymph Award, the festival’s highest accolade, bestowed on a professional for their contribution to the entertainment industry.
In the Fiction competition are “Poker Face” (U.S.), starring Natasha Lyonne, “The Warrant: Breaker’s Law” (U.S.), “Ten Pound Poms” (U.K./Australia), “The Seed”, “Chorus Girls” (Denmark), “Fence” (Japan), “Le Colosse aux pieds d’argile” (France), “Miró” (Spain) and “Trust No One” (Israel).
In the News and Documentaries competition section are “First to Stand: The Cases and Causes of Irwin Cotler” (Canada), “Hezbollah Inc.” (France), “Life on the Donbas Frontline” (France), “Nazanin” (U.K.), “Russia, the Stolen Children of Ukraine” (France), “The Last Border” (Portugal), “The Man Who Played With Fire” (U.
Hollywood producer and writer Howard Gordon will receive the Honorary Golden Nymph Award, the festival’s highest accolade, bestowed on a professional for their contribution to the entertainment industry.
In the Fiction competition are “Poker Face” (U.S.), starring Natasha Lyonne, “The Warrant: Breaker’s Law” (U.S.), “Ten Pound Poms” (U.K./Australia), “The Seed”, “Chorus Girls” (Denmark), “Fence” (Japan), “Le Colosse aux pieds d’argile” (France), “Miró” (Spain) and “Trust No One” (Israel).
In the News and Documentaries competition section are “First to Stand: The Cases and Causes of Irwin Cotler” (Canada), “Hezbollah Inc.” (France), “Life on the Donbas Frontline” (France), “Nazanin” (U.K.), “Russia, the Stolen Children of Ukraine” (France), “The Last Border” (Portugal), “The Man Who Played With Fire” (U.
- 5/5/2023
- by Leo Barraclough
- Variety Film + TV
Emmy-winning Roseanne star John Goodman will head up this year’s jury at the 2023 Monte-Carlo TV Festival, the festival announced Thursday.
The tireless and versatile film and TV actor, whose credits range from voicing Sully in Monsters, Inc. to supporting roles in several Coen Brothers’ films (Raising Arizona, Barton Fink, The Big Lebowski) to a phenomenally productive small-screen career that includes such series as Alpha House, Dancing on the Edge and Roseanne sequel The Conners, will head up this year’s fiction jury. Joining him are fellow jurors Camilla Rydbacken, senior vp, scripted content at Viaplay Sweden; Vikings actor Travis Fimmel; the Italian actress and presenter Francesca Chillemi; U.S. producer and Big Light Productions CEO Frank Spotnitz (The X-Files, The Man in the High Castle); and Marcus Ammon, managing director content for German production group Bavaria Fiction.
Acclaimed documentarian Tom Jennings (Apollo: Missions to the Moon) will head up...
The tireless and versatile film and TV actor, whose credits range from voicing Sully in Monsters, Inc. to supporting roles in several Coen Brothers’ films (Raising Arizona, Barton Fink, The Big Lebowski) to a phenomenally productive small-screen career that includes such series as Alpha House, Dancing on the Edge and Roseanne sequel The Conners, will head up this year’s fiction jury. Joining him are fellow jurors Camilla Rydbacken, senior vp, scripted content at Viaplay Sweden; Vikings actor Travis Fimmel; the Italian actress and presenter Francesca Chillemi; U.S. producer and Big Light Productions CEO Frank Spotnitz (The X-Files, The Man in the High Castle); and Marcus Ammon, managing director content for German production group Bavaria Fiction.
Acclaimed documentarian Tom Jennings (Apollo: Missions to the Moon) will head up...
- 5/4/2023
- by Scott Roxborough
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Tomorrow Studios, the ITV Studios partnership behind Apple TV+’s “Physical” and Showtime’s “Let the Right One In,” has announced a first-look deal with Midnight Radio, the producing team comprised of André Nemec, Josh Appelbaum, Jeff Pinkner and Scott Rosenberg. The two companies previously worked together on Netflix’s short-lived “Cowboy Bebop.”
“We are so thrilled to be joining the Tomorrow Studios family. Working with them on ‘Cowboy Bebop’ was one of the most creatively fulfilling experiences we’ve ever had, and we’re excited to continue that partnership,” Nemec said in an exclusive statement to TheWrap.
“This is an exciting time for growth as an independent television production company, and we are thrilled that the talented team of writers and producers at Midnight Radio has agreed to work alongside us to develop and produce even more riveting projects for today’s television audience,” Tomorrow Studios CEO Marty Adelstein...
“We are so thrilled to be joining the Tomorrow Studios family. Working with them on ‘Cowboy Bebop’ was one of the most creatively fulfilling experiences we’ve ever had, and we’re excited to continue that partnership,” Nemec said in an exclusive statement to TheWrap.
“This is an exciting time for growth as an independent television production company, and we are thrilled that the talented team of writers and producers at Midnight Radio has agreed to work alongside us to develop and produce even more riveting projects for today’s television audience,” Tomorrow Studios CEO Marty Adelstein...
- 4/18/2023
- by Kayla Cobb
- The Wrap
Joe Lycett To Helm Channel 4 Live Show
Joe Lycett has been handed a five-part live show on Channel 4. The network favorite and comedian will helm The Joe Lycett Live Show during which he will broadcast from his Birmingham hometown with a live audience, celebrity guests and local legends. He presented live one-off Joe Lycett’s Big Pride Party for the network last year and has already achieved success with the Joe Lycett’s Got Your Back consumer affairs show. “This has been a dream of mine for many years and I look forward to some (controlled) late night chaos,” he added. Lycett is having quite the year, having generated global headlines for a stunt in which he pretended to burn £10,000 in protest at David Beckham’s ambassadorial role with Qatar.
Pamela L. Kunath Named Co-President of Constantin Film Development
Pamela L. Kunath has been named Co-President at Constantin Film Development.
Joe Lycett has been handed a five-part live show on Channel 4. The network favorite and comedian will helm The Joe Lycett Live Show during which he will broadcast from his Birmingham hometown with a live audience, celebrity guests and local legends. He presented live one-off Joe Lycett’s Big Pride Party for the network last year and has already achieved success with the Joe Lycett’s Got Your Back consumer affairs show. “This has been a dream of mine for many years and I look forward to some (controlled) late night chaos,” he added. Lycett is having quite the year, having generated global headlines for a stunt in which he pretended to burn £10,000 in protest at David Beckham’s ambassadorial role with Qatar.
Pamela L. Kunath Named Co-President of Constantin Film Development
Pamela L. Kunath has been named Co-President at Constantin Film Development.
- 2/10/2023
- by Max Goldbart and Zac Ntim
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Keshet UK scripted boss Howard Burch has departed, replaced by Keshet International-owned Greenbird CEO Jamie Munro in an expanded role.
Experienced former Kudos exec Burch left several months ago and Munro had been filling in temporarily, before recently becoming the permanent Keshet UK MD. He is tasked with building up the Israeli powerhouse’s scripted UK offering, which includes the likes of Apple TV+’s Suspicion and BBC One dramas The A-Word and Ralph and Katie, the latter two of which are co-produced. Munro keeps his Greenbird responsibilities.
Munro and fellow indie incubator Greenbird co-founder Stuart Mullin took over Keshet International’s UK scripted and non-scripted offering in 2018 but Munro’s new role is more hands-on. The recently-rebranded Interstellar non-scripted arm will continue to be run by David Williams, having spun off from the scripted arm last year. Greenbird has stakes in indies such as Lego Masters producer Tuesday’s Child,...
Experienced former Kudos exec Burch left several months ago and Munro had been filling in temporarily, before recently becoming the permanent Keshet UK MD. He is tasked with building up the Israeli powerhouse’s scripted UK offering, which includes the likes of Apple TV+’s Suspicion and BBC One dramas The A-Word and Ralph and Katie, the latter two of which are co-produced. Munro keeps his Greenbird responsibilities.
Munro and fellow indie incubator Greenbird co-founder Stuart Mullin took over Keshet International’s UK scripted and non-scripted offering in 2018 but Munro’s new role is more hands-on. The recently-rebranded Interstellar non-scripted arm will continue to be run by David Williams, having spun off from the scripted arm last year. Greenbird has stakes in indies such as Lego Masters producer Tuesday’s Child,...
- 10/26/2022
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
The term “mini-major” gets bandied around a lot in the world of international film and television, but if the label applies to anyone, it applies to German group Constantin Film.
The producer-driven powerhouse is one of Germany’s, and thus Europe’s, leading independent producers of big- and small-screen content, with a deep slate that runs, on the film side, from video game adaptations, such as Monster Hunter and the juggernaut Resident Evil franchise, to the Oscar-nominated WWII drama Downfall, and in high-end TV from period dramas KaDeWe – Our Time Is Now and We Children From Bahnhof Zoo, produced for German public channel Ard and Amazon Prime, respectively, to YA fantasy series Shadowhunters: The Mortal Instruments and upcoming series on the events of the Nuremberg trials, produced with Frank Spotnitz’s Big Light Production (The Man in the High Castle), and Smilla’s Sense of Snow,...
The term “mini-major” gets bandied around a lot in the world of international film and television, but if the label applies to anyone, it applies to German group Constantin Film.
The producer-driven powerhouse is one of Germany’s, and thus Europe’s, leading independent producers of big- and small-screen content, with a deep slate that runs, on the film side, from video game adaptations, such as Monster Hunter and the juggernaut Resident Evil franchise, to the Oscar-nominated WWII drama Downfall, and in high-end TV from period dramas KaDeWe – Our Time Is Now and We Children From Bahnhof Zoo, produced for German public channel Ard and Amazon Prime, respectively, to YA fantasy series Shadowhunters: The Mortal Instruments and upcoming series on the events of the Nuremberg trials, produced with Frank Spotnitz’s Big Light Production (The Man in the High Castle), and Smilla’s Sense of Snow,...
- 10/19/2022
- by Scott Roxborough
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
The Alliance, which brings together European broadcasters France Télévisions, Italy’s Rai and Germany’s Zdf in a commissioning partnership, announced the development of a new series “The Kollective” at Rome’s Mia Market on Wednesday.
France Télévisions, Rai and Zdf decided to join forces back in 2018 to develop and co-produce high-end TV dramas aimed at a broad audience. To date, they have produced nine series, ranging from thrillers to science-fiction, including historical drama “Leonardo,” pictured above.
“The idea was to bring together three public broadcasters who are really on a mission to show our audience programs that resonate. Programs that otherwise none of us could afford,” explained Simone Emmelius, senior VP international fiction-coproduction and acquisition at Zdf. Also mentioning that these days, the Alliance is focusing more and more on younger viewers.
“We have a common heritage and common understanding of stories that should be told, even though we...
France Télévisions, Rai and Zdf decided to join forces back in 2018 to develop and co-produce high-end TV dramas aimed at a broad audience. To date, they have produced nine series, ranging from thrillers to science-fiction, including historical drama “Leonardo,” pictured above.
“The idea was to bring together three public broadcasters who are really on a mission to show our audience programs that resonate. Programs that otherwise none of us could afford,” explained Simone Emmelius, senior VP international fiction-coproduction and acquisition at Zdf. Also mentioning that these days, the Alliance is focusing more and more on younger viewers.
“We have a common heritage and common understanding of stories that should be told, even though we...
- 10/12/2022
- by Marta Balaga
- Variety Film + TV
German powerhouse Constantin Film and Frank Spotnitz’s Big Light Productions have teamed to make a high-end drama series about the events surrounding the Nuremberg Trials.
The drama, currently unnamed, follows the prosecution of Nazi officials after World War II, the first time in history that people were held accountable for war crimes, exploring characters from all sides of the trials.
The series will be executive produced by Oliver Berben and Robert Kulzer for Constantin Film, Spotnitz and Emily Feller for Big Light, and Ron Maxwell (Gettysburg) along with Jeff Berg of Northside Services.
“This series is a real powerhouse,” said Spotnitz. “It’s an investigative mystery, a suspense thriller set both in a courtroom and on the global stage, and one of the most searing moral dramas imaginable. The characters and the issues all seem startlingly relevant and contemporary.”
“On May 8, 1945, Nazi Germany unconditionally surrendered to the Allies,...
The drama, currently unnamed, follows the prosecution of Nazi officials after World War II, the first time in history that people were held accountable for war crimes, exploring characters from all sides of the trials.
The series will be executive produced by Oliver Berben and Robert Kulzer for Constantin Film, Spotnitz and Emily Feller for Big Light, and Ron Maxwell (Gettysburg) along with Jeff Berg of Northside Services.
“This series is a real powerhouse,” said Spotnitz. “It’s an investigative mystery, a suspense thriller set both in a courtroom and on the global stage, and one of the most searing moral dramas imaginable. The characters and the issues all seem startlingly relevant and contemporary.”
“On May 8, 1945, Nazi Germany unconditionally surrendered to the Allies,...
- 10/5/2022
- by Jesse Whittock
- Deadline Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
Constantin Film, the German powerhouse behind the Resident Evil franchise, is partnering with U.K.-based Big Light Productions, founded by Frank Spotnitz (The Man in the High Castle, The X-Files, Medici, Leonardo), to develop a high-end drama series about the world-changing Nuremberg Trials.
The project will dive into the events surrounding the prosecution of Nazi officials following WWII, the first time in history that people were held accountable for war crimes, exploring characters from all sides of the trials, showing how not only justice was at stake but the global balance of power.
“This series is a real powerhouse,” said Spotnitz. “It’s an investigative mystery, a suspense thriller set both in a courtroom and on the global stage, and one of the most searing moral dramas imaginable. The characters and the issues all seem startlingly relevant and contemporary.”
“We are delighted...
Constantin Film, the German powerhouse behind the Resident Evil franchise, is partnering with U.K.-based Big Light Productions, founded by Frank Spotnitz (The Man in the High Castle, The X-Files, Medici, Leonardo), to develop a high-end drama series about the world-changing Nuremberg Trials.
The project will dive into the events surrounding the prosecution of Nazi officials following WWII, the first time in history that people were held accountable for war crimes, exploring characters from all sides of the trials, showing how not only justice was at stake but the global balance of power.
“This series is a real powerhouse,” said Spotnitz. “It’s an investigative mystery, a suspense thriller set both in a courtroom and on the global stage, and one of the most searing moral dramas imaginable. The characters and the issues all seem startlingly relevant and contemporary.”
“We are delighted...
- 10/5/2022
- by Alex Ritman
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
If you’ve wanted to see the life of Leonardo da Vinci dramatized on screen, then you need to see Leonardo. The show is a fictionalized depiction of da Vinci’s extraordinary life as an inventor and artist, most popularly known as the creator of the masterpiece “Mona Lisa.” The show also portrays his humanity, indicating that despite his genius and exceptional creativity, he was also a human and experienced mortal pitfall. Frank Spotnitz and Steve Thompson create Leonardo. Spotnitz is best known for his work on hit TV shows like The X-Files and, more recently, The Man in the High Castle, while Steve Thompson previously
Meet The Cast Of “Leonardo”...
Meet The Cast Of “Leonardo”...
- 8/22/2022
- by A.E. Oats
- TVovermind.com
Network: The CW
Episodes: Ongoing (hour)
Seasons: Ongoing
TV show dates: August 16, 2022 -- present
Series status: Has not been cancelled
Performers include: Aidan Turner, Matilda de Angelis, Giancarlo Giannini, Freddie Highmore, James D’Arcy, Carlos Cuevas, Alessandro Sperduti, Robin Renucci, Flavio Parenti, Miriam Dalmazio and Antonio de Matteo.
TV show description:
A historical drama series, the Leonardo TV show was created by Frank Spotnitz and Steve Thompson.
The story explores the secrets and drama behind the genius of Leonardo da Vinci (Turner) -- his life, his work, and his personal struggles set against the backdrop of Renaissance Italy.
Read More…...
Episodes: Ongoing (hour)
Seasons: Ongoing
TV show dates: August 16, 2022 -- present
Series status: Has not been cancelled
Performers include: Aidan Turner, Matilda de Angelis, Giancarlo Giannini, Freddie Highmore, James D’Arcy, Carlos Cuevas, Alessandro Sperduti, Robin Renucci, Flavio Parenti, Miriam Dalmazio and Antonio de Matteo.
TV show description:
A historical drama series, the Leonardo TV show was created by Frank Spotnitz and Steve Thompson.
The story explores the secrets and drama behind the genius of Leonardo da Vinci (Turner) -- his life, his work, and his personal struggles set against the backdrop of Renaissance Italy.
Read More…...
- 8/17/2022
- by TVSeriesFinale.com
- TVSeriesFinale.com
Like the enigmatic Leonardo da Vinci himself, this lavish limited series Leonardo starring Poldark’s Aidan Turner as the High Renaissance artist, inventor and scientist is many things: a biopic of an insatiably curious and obsessively driven genius with abandonment issues; a platonic love story between the man and the model listed only as “da Cremona” in historical records; and, in a delicious twist, a fictional murder mystery. As the story starts, Leonardo is arrested for the poisoning of Caterina da Cremona (Matilda De Angelis) in Milan. Officer Stefano Giraldi (Freddie Highmore), under pressure to get a confession, begins interrogating Leonardo about his life and work — taking us back 16 years to his apprenticeship in Florence. (Credit: Fabio Lovino/Lux Vide/Sony Pictures Television) For show cocreators Frank Spotnitz and Steve Thompson, Giraldi is a proxy for viewers who may not think they care about the painter behind the Mona Lisa and The Last Supper.
- 8/15/2022
- TV Insider
Vince Gilligan’s sole script on the 2005 ‘Night Stalker’ reboot is the perfect stepping stone between the writer’s two television universes.
“There are countless stories in the city, about the lives lived here, about how the fates of others intertwine with our own in ways we can never expect or predict.”
The X-Files was one of the most significant cultural touchstones to come out of the 1990s and it forever changed the shape of genre storytelling on television. Breaking Bad and its prequel spin-off series, Better Call Saul, have very much done the same for television in the 2010s and ‘20s, albeit in very different ways. Vince Gilligan is the common factor between these completely unique worlds, but he also wrote a single episode of 2005’s reboot of the totemic supernatural procedural series, Kolchak: The Night Stalker.
If The X-Files is about the pursuit of the truth and Breaking Bad...
“There are countless stories in the city, about the lives lived here, about how the fates of others intertwine with our own in ways we can never expect or predict.”
The X-Files was one of the most significant cultural touchstones to come out of the 1990s and it forever changed the shape of genre storytelling on television. Breaking Bad and its prequel spin-off series, Better Call Saul, have very much done the same for television in the 2010s and ‘20s, albeit in very different ways. Vince Gilligan is the common factor between these completely unique worlds, but he also wrote a single episode of 2005’s reboot of the totemic supernatural procedural series, Kolchak: The Night Stalker.
If The X-Files is about the pursuit of the truth and Breaking Bad...
- 8/12/2022
- by Daniel Kurland
- bloody-disgusting.com
As Marty Adelstein and Becky Clements ramp up the output from their Tomorrow Studios shingle, they’ve identified the first project they plan to bring out via their new deal with Julia Garner.
Garner and her producing partner Rowan Riley, via their company Alma Margo, sealed a first-look deal with Tomorrow earlier this year. Their first series will be a drama about an international jewel heist titled “Balabusta.”
“She’s very engaged and involved in every step of the way,” Adelstein said of Garner. “That’s probably one of the best deals we’ve ever made. We’re really happy to be in business with her.”
Garner, of course, is on a roll, having scored Emmy nominations this week in both lead actress in a limited series (for “Inventing Anna”) and supporting actress in a drama (for “Ozark”). Garner already has two Emmys, having won for “Ozark” in 2019 and 2020 in the supporting drama actress field.
Garner and her producing partner Rowan Riley, via their company Alma Margo, sealed a first-look deal with Tomorrow earlier this year. Their first series will be a drama about an international jewel heist titled “Balabusta.”
“She’s very engaged and involved in every step of the way,” Adelstein said of Garner. “That’s probably one of the best deals we’ve ever made. We’re really happy to be in business with her.”
Garner, of course, is on a roll, having scored Emmy nominations this week in both lead actress in a limited series (for “Inventing Anna”) and supporting actress in a drama (for “Ozark”). Garner already has two Emmys, having won for “Ozark” in 2019 and 2020 in the supporting drama actress field.
- 7/14/2022
- by Michael Schneider
- Variety Film + TV
The CW announced an additional summer slate of programming, which includes new scripted series “Bump” and “Leonardo,” debuting Aug. 11 and Aug. 16, respectively, at 8 p.m. Et/Pt on the channel. The network also announced the return of “Devils,” set for Aug. 16 at 9 p.m., and “Killer Camp” on Aug. 5 at 8 p.m.
“Bump,” an Australian comedy series, will make its U.S. debut with back-to-back episodes. The show follows 17-year-old over-achiever Olympia (Nathalie Morris), who is shocked to discover she’s in labor after being rushed to the hospital with severe pains. Suddenly, her 10-year-plan with her boyfriend Lachie (Peter Thurnwald) and best friend Reema (Safia Arain) comes crashing down, especially given that the baby’s father is actually Santi’s (Carlos Sanson Jr.), the son of her mother’s work crush.
Meanwhile, “Leonardo” — a historical drama about Leonardo da Vinci starring Aidan Turner as the artist, as well as Freddie Highmore,...
“Bump,” an Australian comedy series, will make its U.S. debut with back-to-back episodes. The show follows 17-year-old over-achiever Olympia (Nathalie Morris), who is shocked to discover she’s in labor after being rushed to the hospital with severe pains. Suddenly, her 10-year-plan with her boyfriend Lachie (Peter Thurnwald) and best friend Reema (Safia Arain) comes crashing down, especially given that the baby’s father is actually Santi’s (Carlos Sanson Jr.), the son of her mother’s work crush.
Meanwhile, “Leonardo” — a historical drama about Leonardo da Vinci starring Aidan Turner as the artist, as well as Freddie Highmore,...
- 6/2/2022
- by Natalie Oganesyan
- The Wrap
Sky Recommissions ‘Never Mind The Buzzcocks’ On Four-Strong Entertainment Slate
Sky has commissioned a second season of its Never Mind the Buzzcocks reboot on a four-strong entertainment slate that includes a football quiz exec produced by Jack Whitehall. The recommission comes alongside a second series of Matt Lucas/Elis James’ Fantasy Football League, Whitehall’s quiz Got Got Need, which is led by football pundits Harry and Jamie Redknapp, and a Nish Kumar/Josh Widdicombe series about local news called Hold the Front Page. Cult music quiz Never Mind the Buzzcocks aired for nearly 20 years on the BBC before being rebooted last year on Sky, hosted by Greg Davies and featuring Noel Fielding, This Country star Daisy May Cooper and comedian Jamali Maddix. They are joined by a roster of top music and comedy stars each week. All shows will air on Sky Max, which replaced Sky One last year.
Sky has commissioned a second season of its Never Mind the Buzzcocks reboot on a four-strong entertainment slate that includes a football quiz exec produced by Jack Whitehall. The recommission comes alongside a second series of Matt Lucas/Elis James’ Fantasy Football League, Whitehall’s quiz Got Got Need, which is led by football pundits Harry and Jamie Redknapp, and a Nish Kumar/Josh Widdicombe series about local news called Hold the Front Page. Cult music quiz Never Mind the Buzzcocks aired for nearly 20 years on the BBC before being rebooted last year on Sky, hosted by Greg Davies and featuring Noel Fielding, This Country star Daisy May Cooper and comedian Jamali Maddix. They are joined by a roster of top music and comedy stars each week. All shows will air on Sky Max, which replaced Sky One last year.
- 5/17/2022
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
“Snowpiercer” producer Tomorrow Studios has struck a first-look deal with Frank Spotnitz’s London-based production company Big Light Prods.
Under the deal, Tomorrow Studios will tap into Big Light’s network of established and emerging writers and its pursuit of IP for projects to produce together under one development slate.
Big Light Prods. specializes in returning and limited dramas for the global market. The company, which has built up a rep as a transatlantic powerhouse, has a slate that includes “Medici” for Netflix and Italian public broadcaster Rai; “The Man in the High Castle” for Amazon’s Prime Video; “Devils” for Sky; and “The Indian Detective” for Canada’s CTV.
Spotnitz — who was an executive producer and writer on sci-fi drama “The X-Files” — and creative director Emily Feller will oversee the partnership for Big Light.
ITV Studios-backed Tomorrow Studios, meanwhile, produces “Snowpiercer,” the TV series based on the acclaimed Bong Joon Ho movie,...
Under the deal, Tomorrow Studios will tap into Big Light’s network of established and emerging writers and its pursuit of IP for projects to produce together under one development slate.
Big Light Prods. specializes in returning and limited dramas for the global market. The company, which has built up a rep as a transatlantic powerhouse, has a slate that includes “Medici” for Netflix and Italian public broadcaster Rai; “The Man in the High Castle” for Amazon’s Prime Video; “Devils” for Sky; and “The Indian Detective” for Canada’s CTV.
Spotnitz — who was an executive producer and writer on sci-fi drama “The X-Files” — and creative director Emily Feller will oversee the partnership for Big Light.
ITV Studios-backed Tomorrow Studios, meanwhile, produces “Snowpiercer,” the TV series based on the acclaimed Bong Joon Ho movie,...
- 5/17/2022
- by Manori Ravindran
- Variety Film + TV
Producer Frank Spotnitz ("The Man In The High Castle") continues developing the "Warhammer 40,000" novels by Dan Abnett, into a live-action TV series with Big Light Productions and Games Workshop:
"...while humanity's armies wage unending war across a million battlefields, in the darkness, a secret conflict rages – fought by the agents of the 'Imperial Inquisition'.
"'Inquisitor Gregor Eisenhorn' and his band of investigators fight to thwart the monstrous schemes of aliens, heretics and 'daemons' before mankind's doom is sealed..."
"'Warhammer 40,000' is steeped in rich and complex lore,", said Spotnitz, "with a myriad of traditions and stories that have accumulated over time in this thrilling and complex world, making it one of the most exciting properties to adapt for television audiences and the franchise's loyal global fanbase. There is nothing else like it on television, and we are incredibly excited to tap into our own experience creating imaginative, complex and...
"...while humanity's armies wage unending war across a million battlefields, in the darkness, a secret conflict rages – fought by the agents of the 'Imperial Inquisition'.
"'Inquisitor Gregor Eisenhorn' and his band of investigators fight to thwart the monstrous schemes of aliens, heretics and 'daemons' before mankind's doom is sealed..."
"'Warhammer 40,000' is steeped in rich and complex lore,", said Spotnitz, "with a myriad of traditions and stories that have accumulated over time in this thrilling and complex world, making it one of the most exciting properties to adapt for television audiences and the franchise's loyal global fanbase. There is nothing else like it on television, and we are incredibly excited to tap into our own experience creating imaginative, complex and...
- 4/30/2022
- by Unknown
- SneakPeek
Banijay Buys Italy’s Groenlandia Group, Maker of ‘Romulus’ and ‘The Incredible Story of Rose Island’
Banijay has acquired control of Italy’s expanding Groenlandia Group, which is a producer on ITV’s “Romulus” skein and made recent Netflix Italian original film “The Incredible Story of Rose Island,” among other titles.
The Rome-based company, headed by directors and producers Matteo Rovere and Sydney Sibilia, has been steadily growing since its founding in 2014. Besides “Romulus” — both the film and the TV series which Rovere directed, and “Rose Island,” helmed by Sibilia, Groenlandia’s recent output also includes Leonardo D’Agostini’s widely exported soccer comedy drama “The Champion,” starring Stefano Accorsi, and Ludovico De Martino’s actioner “The Beast,” co-produced with Warner Bros. and now streaming globally on Netflix.
Groenlandia also comprises Ascent Films, founded and managed by Andrea Paris, who will keep operating in the shingle, in which it has had a majority stake since 2014. Ascent is an incubator shingle focused on identifying and establishing new talent.
The Rome-based company, headed by directors and producers Matteo Rovere and Sydney Sibilia, has been steadily growing since its founding in 2014. Besides “Romulus” — both the film and the TV series which Rovere directed, and “Rose Island,” helmed by Sibilia, Groenlandia’s recent output also includes Leonardo D’Agostini’s widely exported soccer comedy drama “The Champion,” starring Stefano Accorsi, and Ludovico De Martino’s actioner “The Beast,” co-produced with Warner Bros. and now streaming globally on Netflix.
Groenlandia also comprises Ascent Films, founded and managed by Andrea Paris, who will keep operating in the shingle, in which it has had a majority stake since 2014. Ascent is an incubator shingle focused on identifying and establishing new talent.
- 3/22/2022
- by Nick Vivarelli
- Variety Film + TV
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