Drama series set in the worlds of Eurovision and the Vatican are among the selected projects for Series Mania’s Co-Pro Pitching Sessions next month.
Among the 16 titles are European six-parter Eurovision Murder Mystery, which is from France’s Apc Stories and Germany’s Friday Film. Plot details were thin, but synopsis reads: “When you have 72 hours to solve a murder, save Eurovision and the fate of Europe. Fabienne Hurst and Bertrand Soulier are writing.
Vatican, from Italy’s Fabula Pictures, follows a father investigating the suspicious death of his only son. he discovers his child was involved in a prostitution ring inside the church used by unscrupulous bishops to control the Vatican policy. Flavio Bernard, Ciro Di Maso and Marcello Olivieri are attached to write.
Fifteen of the 16 Series Mania titles were previously unannounced for the event, which takes place on March 19 as part of the Series Mania Forum.
Among the 16 titles are European six-parter Eurovision Murder Mystery, which is from France’s Apc Stories and Germany’s Friday Film. Plot details were thin, but synopsis reads: “When you have 72 hours to solve a murder, save Eurovision and the fate of Europe. Fabienne Hurst and Bertrand Soulier are writing.
Vatican, from Italy’s Fabula Pictures, follows a father investigating the suspicious death of his only son. he discovers his child was involved in a prostitution ring inside the church used by unscrupulous bishops to control the Vatican policy. Flavio Bernard, Ciro Di Maso and Marcello Olivieri are attached to write.
Fifteen of the 16 Series Mania titles were previously unannounced for the event, which takes place on March 19 as part of the Series Mania Forum.
- 2/23/2024
- by Jesse Whittock and Sara Merican
- Deadline Film + TV
“A True Novel,” directed by Kiyoshi Kurosawa, manga-inspired “Issak,” written by Itaru Mizuno (“Double Booking”) and “4 Blocks” Richard Kropf, look like potential highlights at this year’s Co-Pro Pitching Sessions, the centerpiece at Series Mania’s Forum, as its projects expand ever more their geographic compass, here welcoming their first titles co-produced by Japan.
They are joined by titles from around the world such as Argentinean Daniel Burman’s “Witness 36,” which won the Series Mania Award at the Berlinale Series Market on Tuesday, and a slice of Vatican noir and which reunites the team of “De Grace,”and
The Forum runs March 19-21 during Series Mania, Europe’s biggest dedicated TV festival, which will unspool this year over March 15-22 in Lille, Northern France.
News of the Co-Pro lineup comes as the Forum is tracking for yet another all-time record attendance. After last year’s historical high of 3,800 delegates,...
They are joined by titles from around the world such as Argentinean Daniel Burman’s “Witness 36,” which won the Series Mania Award at the Berlinale Series Market on Tuesday, and a slice of Vatican noir and which reunites the team of “De Grace,”and
The Forum runs March 19-21 during Series Mania, Europe’s biggest dedicated TV festival, which will unspool this year over March 15-22 in Lille, Northern France.
News of the Co-Pro lineup comes as the Forum is tracking for yet another all-time record attendance. After last year’s historical high of 3,800 delegates,...
- 2/23/2024
- by John Hopewell
- Variety Film + TV
Production on mixed-language, eight-part series to commence in early 2024.
Los Angeles-based Upgrade Productions is partnering with Iceland’s new Act 4 and Croatia’s Drugi Plan on the eco-thriller Volcano.
The eight-part series follows surviving residents from a volcano which has devasted Iceland as they are relocated to Croatia under a Un directive and must learn how to live together, survive cultural clashes and ultimately help each other.
Production on the mixed-language series – which will be in English, Icelandic, Croatian – is scheduled to start early next year and will take place in Iceland and Croatia.
Act 4, the production company led...
Los Angeles-based Upgrade Productions is partnering with Iceland’s new Act 4 and Croatia’s Drugi Plan on the eco-thriller Volcano.
The eight-part series follows surviving residents from a volcano which has devasted Iceland as they are relocated to Croatia under a Un directive and must learn how to live together, survive cultural clashes and ultimately help each other.
Production on the mixed-language series – which will be in English, Icelandic, Croatian – is scheduled to start early next year and will take place in Iceland and Croatia.
Act 4, the production company led...
- 3/21/2023
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
The aftermath of a deadly volcanic eruption will set the stage for a new eco-thriller between Los Angeles-based Upgrade Productions, Iceland’s Act 4 and Croatia’s Drugi Plan.
The eight-part series is produced by Act 4, the newly announced production company led by prominent Icelandic creatives, including “True Detective” actor Ólafur Darri Ólafsson and “Black Sands” producer Hörður Rúnarsson, and Croatia’s Drugi Plan, led by Nebojsa Taraba and Miodrag Sila.
Executive produced by Upgrade Productions, “Volcano” is based on an original idea by Taraba and Sila and written by Rúnarsson and Mateja Božičević (Prime Video’s “Carnival Row”). The mixed-language series will be shot in Iceland and Croatia, with production scheduled to start early next year.
After a crushing volcanic eruption devastates Iceland, a Un directive relocates the surviving residents to Croatia. “Volcano” follows the tensions that arise as these vastly different societies...
The eight-part series is produced by Act 4, the newly announced production company led by prominent Icelandic creatives, including “True Detective” actor Ólafur Darri Ólafsson and “Black Sands” producer Hörður Rúnarsson, and Croatia’s Drugi Plan, led by Nebojsa Taraba and Miodrag Sila.
Executive produced by Upgrade Productions, “Volcano” is based on an original idea by Taraba and Sila and written by Rúnarsson and Mateja Božičević (Prime Video’s “Carnival Row”). The mixed-language series will be shot in Iceland and Croatia, with production scheduled to start early next year.
After a crushing volcanic eruption devastates Iceland, a Un directive relocates the surviving residents to Croatia. “Volcano” follows the tensions that arise as these vastly different societies...
- 3/21/2023
- by Manori Ravindran
- Variety Film + TV
The majority of producers might be forgiven for agonizing about their choice of career as they enter the 73rd Berlinale. Yet amid the industry’s gloom and doom around the shaky state of the independent film market and uncertain future of cinema shines a beacon of light. Habitually independent by both name and natural instincts, producer collaboration between themselves – across borders and continents —are playing an enhanced and vital role as the industry pivots once again in the face of ongoing disruption.
Definitions of so-called ‘independence’ in sync with the ‘producer’ moniker vary so widely that the very term has been questioned. “There is no such thing as an independent producer,” Bill Mechanic, CEO of Pandemonium and former Fox Filmed Entertainment boss memorably opined to IFTA members pre-pandemic. “There are dependent producers: dependent on distributors, financiers and bankers and distribution channels that understand the market even less that the corporations that own the studios.
Definitions of so-called ‘independence’ in sync with the ‘producer’ moniker vary so widely that the very term has been questioned. “There is no such thing as an independent producer,” Bill Mechanic, CEO of Pandemonium and former Fox Filmed Entertainment boss memorably opined to IFTA members pre-pandemic. “There are dependent producers: dependent on distributors, financiers and bankers and distribution channels that understand the market even less that the corporations that own the studios.
- 2/16/2023
- by Angus Finney
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Matt Brodlie and Jonathan Kier’s Upgrade Productions has boarded world sales rights to Shoah feature Shttl, which played at the London and Rome Film Festivals (where it won the audience award) this fall.
The film was previously with Bron Releasing but is no longer on the slate after Bron needed to streamline its film business.
Black and white drama Shttl follows the inhabitants of a Yiddish Ukrainian village on the eve of the Nazi invasion, known as Operation Barberossa.
Shot in Ukraine last year (with an almost entirely Ukrainian crew), the production fully reconstructed a traditional shtetl (or village) outside of Kiev to recreate life prior to the Nazi onslaught (as few traces of that life now remain), but it was subsequently destroyed by the Russian invasion earlier this year. Following the filming in 2021, the set (which included a synagogue which had been blessed and consecrated) had been...
The film was previously with Bron Releasing but is no longer on the slate after Bron needed to streamline its film business.
Black and white drama Shttl follows the inhabitants of a Yiddish Ukrainian village on the eve of the Nazi invasion, known as Operation Barberossa.
Shot in Ukraine last year (with an almost entirely Ukrainian crew), the production fully reconstructed a traditional shtetl (or village) outside of Kiev to recreate life prior to the Nazi onslaught (as few traces of that life now remain), but it was subsequently destroyed by the Russian invasion earlier this year. Following the filming in 2021, the set (which included a synagogue which had been blessed and consecrated) had been...
- 12/16/2022
- by Andreas Wiseman
- Deadline Film + TV
Prime Video’s latest Spanish original is supernatural horror series Romancero.
The show, written by author and screenwriter Fernando Navarro (Venus, Verónica) and directed by Tomás Peña, comes from The Mediapro Studio-owned producer 100 Balas.
It stars Sasha Cócola (Food & Shelter, Paco’s Men) and Serbian-born actress Elena Matic, making her debut in a dramatic series in Spain, Ricardo Gómez (The Replacement, La Ruta, Cuéntame Cómo), Guillermo Toledo (The Minions of Midas), Belén Cuesta (The Endless Trench) and Julieta Cardinali (The Candidate) and includes a special guest role for Alba Flores (Money Heist, Locked Up).
Earlier today, Deadline revealed Flores is leading another new drama series, Ulterior, which is from Matt Brodlie and Jonathan Kier’s Upgrade Productions and Spanish firm Moreno Films.
Romancero follows Cornelia and Jordan, as they flee “the force of law, powerful supernatural creatures and themselves,” framed within “within the backdrop of a desert-like and cruel Andalusia,...
The show, written by author and screenwriter Fernando Navarro (Venus, Verónica) and directed by Tomás Peña, comes from The Mediapro Studio-owned producer 100 Balas.
It stars Sasha Cócola (Food & Shelter, Paco’s Men) and Serbian-born actress Elena Matic, making her debut in a dramatic series in Spain, Ricardo Gómez (The Replacement, La Ruta, Cuéntame Cómo), Guillermo Toledo (The Minions of Midas), Belén Cuesta (The Endless Trench) and Julieta Cardinali (The Candidate) and includes a special guest role for Alba Flores (Money Heist, Locked Up).
Earlier today, Deadline revealed Flores is leading another new drama series, Ulterior, which is from Matt Brodlie and Jonathan Kier’s Upgrade Productions and Spanish firm Moreno Films.
Romancero follows Cornelia and Jordan, as they flee “the force of law, powerful supernatural creatures and themselves,” framed within “within the backdrop of a desert-like and cruel Andalusia,...
- 11/28/2022
- by Jesse Whittock
- Deadline Film + TV
From robbing banks to computer simulations.
According to Deadline, “Money Heist” star Alba Flores has found her next role, leading the upcoming sci-fi thriller series “Ulterior”.
Read More: Netflix’s ‘Money Heist’ Breaks Viewership Records
The series is said to follow a singer and influences who wakes up to find herself in a world where people a virtually connect to simulations of their own lives.
Flores’ Ada will have to play along with the simulation in order to unlock the puzzle of her new reality and find a way back to her real life.
“Money Heist” director Alex Rodrigo co-created the series along with Manuel Burque, and Flores will also serve as an executive producer.
Read More: ‘Money Heist’ Season 4 Trailer Released With Announcement New Season Will Come In 2020
“Manuel Burque and Alex Rodrigo have crafted a visionary and timely thriller and we’re excited to bring their distinct and authentic voices forward,...
According to Deadline, “Money Heist” star Alba Flores has found her next role, leading the upcoming sci-fi thriller series “Ulterior”.
Read More: Netflix’s ‘Money Heist’ Breaks Viewership Records
The series is said to follow a singer and influences who wakes up to find herself in a world where people a virtually connect to simulations of their own lives.
Flores’ Ada will have to play along with the simulation in order to unlock the puzzle of her new reality and find a way back to her real life.
“Money Heist” director Alex Rodrigo co-created the series along with Manuel Burque, and Flores will also serve as an executive producer.
Read More: ‘Money Heist’ Season 4 Trailer Released With Announcement New Season Will Come In 2020
“Manuel Burque and Alex Rodrigo have crafted a visionary and timely thriller and we’re excited to bring their distinct and authentic voices forward,...
- 11/28/2022
- by Corey Atad
- ET Canada
Exclusive: Money Heist star Alba Flores is leading and exec producing a sci-fi thriller from Matt Brodlie and Jonathan Kier’s Upgrade Productions and Spanish outfit Morena Films.
Ulterior is created by Money Heist director Alex Rodrigo and Vida Perfecta’s Manuel Burque and follows a young singer and influencer who wakes up in a life that she does not recognize in a world where humans are given the opportunity to virtually connect to a simulation of their own lives. Protagonist Ada must play along with the game in order to return to her real life and, with the help of a mysterious stranger, unravel the puzzle of her new existence.
Flores, who is also exec producing alongside Morena’s Pedro Uriol (Disney+’s The Invisible Girl), is best known for playing Nairobi in Netflix Spanish smash hit Money Heist. No broadcaster is attached as of yet.
Brodlie and Kier called Ulterior a “chilling and complex science fiction story,” adding: “Manuel Burque and Alex Rodrigo have crafted a visionary and timely thriller and we’re excited to bring their distinct and authentic voices forward.”...
Ulterior is created by Money Heist director Alex Rodrigo and Vida Perfecta’s Manuel Burque and follows a young singer and influencer who wakes up in a life that she does not recognize in a world where humans are given the opportunity to virtually connect to a simulation of their own lives. Protagonist Ada must play along with the game in order to return to her real life and, with the help of a mysterious stranger, unravel the puzzle of her new existence.
Flores, who is also exec producing alongside Morena’s Pedro Uriol (Disney+’s The Invisible Girl), is best known for playing Nairobi in Netflix Spanish smash hit Money Heist. No broadcaster is attached as of yet.
Brodlie and Kier called Ulterior a “chilling and complex science fiction story,” adding: “Manuel Burque and Alex Rodrigo have crafted a visionary and timely thriller and we’re excited to bring their distinct and authentic voices forward.”...
- 11/28/2022
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Burgeoning Los Angeles-based production company Upgrade Productions has bolstered its growing team with two new high-profile profile hires.
The company has signed Akshay Mehta as Executive Vice President, Content Strategy and Business Development, and Vanessa Saal as Executive Vice President, Production & Distribution.
Seasoned production and sales execs Matt Brodlie and Jonathan Kier created Upgrade Productions at the end of 2021 to develop and produce premium local language productions for a global audience.
Mehta and Saal will both report directly to Brodlie and Kier.
Mehta will be responsible for the execution of Upgrade’s overall content strategy and seek out new partnership opportunities.
He is taking the lead on managing these relationships, structuring the financing for the slate and was instrumental in negotiating Upgrade’s equity investment from Constantin Film.
Working closely with Brodlie and Kier to lead the company in growth, he will run day-to-day operations as a senior member of...
The company has signed Akshay Mehta as Executive Vice President, Content Strategy and Business Development, and Vanessa Saal as Executive Vice President, Production & Distribution.
Seasoned production and sales execs Matt Brodlie and Jonathan Kier created Upgrade Productions at the end of 2021 to develop and produce premium local language productions for a global audience.
Mehta and Saal will both report directly to Brodlie and Kier.
Mehta will be responsible for the execution of Upgrade’s overall content strategy and seek out new partnership opportunities.
He is taking the lead on managing these relationships, structuring the financing for the slate and was instrumental in negotiating Upgrade’s equity investment from Constantin Film.
Working closely with Brodlie and Kier to lead the company in growth, he will run day-to-day operations as a senior member of...
- 11/15/2022
- by Melanie Goodfellow
- Deadline Film + TV
Former Protagonist executive Saal will head production and distribution while Mehta leads content strategy and business development.
LA-based Upgrade Productions has appointed Vanessa Saal as executive vice president of production and distribution and Akshay Mehta as executive vice president of content strategy and business development.
Saal will be based in the UK and will spearhead Upgrade’s global distribution strategy while building out its European operations and ventures.
She most recently served as managing director, sales and distribution, at Protagonist Pictures, where she worked from 2014 to 2020. Other previous roles include senior vice president of international sales at Studiocanal and a founding executive at Kinology.
LA-based Upgrade Productions has appointed Vanessa Saal as executive vice president of production and distribution and Akshay Mehta as executive vice president of content strategy and business development.
Saal will be based in the UK and will spearhead Upgrade’s global distribution strategy while building out its European operations and ventures.
She most recently served as managing director, sales and distribution, at Protagonist Pictures, where she worked from 2014 to 2020. Other previous roles include senior vice president of international sales at Studiocanal and a founding executive at Kinology.
- 11/15/2022
- by Ellie Calnan
- ScreenDaily
Fremantle, Samsung Jamie Oliver Fast Channel
Fremantle is partnering with electronics giant Samsung to bring a dedicated Fast channel, “The Jamie Oliver Channel” to audiences in the U.K.
Available from 12th October, the channel is dedicated to the most well-known titles from the British chef, catering to Samsung TV Plus watchers with cooking content for all occasions.
Samsung TV Plus delivers over 1,600 channels across 24 countries, spanning news, sports, and entertainment.
Future’S New Factual
London-based Future Studios has launched factual series “Unbelievable Me” (10 x 45’) at Mipcom.
“Unbelievable Me” tells real life stories of people striving to overcome severe illnesses and medical conditions.
The series is produced in partnership with Warner Bros. Discovery for its linear channels and Discovery+ in the UK, Germany, Benelux, Italy, Latin America and Poland.
The executive producer is Future Studios Director of Programmes, Peter Wyles, who oversaw a deal to partner with Tvf International. Series Producer is Scott Ward.
Fremantle is partnering with electronics giant Samsung to bring a dedicated Fast channel, “The Jamie Oliver Channel” to audiences in the U.K.
Available from 12th October, the channel is dedicated to the most well-known titles from the British chef, catering to Samsung TV Plus watchers with cooking content for all occasions.
Samsung TV Plus delivers over 1,600 channels across 24 countries, spanning news, sports, and entertainment.
Future’S New Factual
London-based Future Studios has launched factual series “Unbelievable Me” (10 x 45’) at Mipcom.
“Unbelievable Me” tells real life stories of people striving to overcome severe illnesses and medical conditions.
The series is produced in partnership with Warner Bros. Discovery for its linear channels and Discovery+ in the UK, Germany, Benelux, Italy, Latin America and Poland.
The executive producer is Future Studios Director of Programmes, Peter Wyles, who oversaw a deal to partner with Tvf International. Series Producer is Scott Ward.
- 10/17/2022
- by Liza Foreman
- Variety Film + TV
Co-president Matt Brodlie, EVP, head of series Caroline Kusser attending TV market in Cannes.
Upgrade Productions, the LA-based production company launched by Matt Brodlie and Jonathan Kier focused on local-language productions, has announced a Mexican feature project and two upcoming series from India and Italy heading into Mipcom and AFM.
Comedy drama My Teacher, Mr. Kim Remake is a Mexican remake of the 2003 South Korean film My Teacher, Mr. Kim to be directed by Celso Garcia, the fast-rising filmmaker whose multiple award-winning 2015 debut feature The Thin Yellow Line was produced by Guillermo del Toro. Mineko Mori is producing with Upgrade...
Upgrade Productions, the LA-based production company launched by Matt Brodlie and Jonathan Kier focused on local-language productions, has announced a Mexican feature project and two upcoming series from India and Italy heading into Mipcom and AFM.
Comedy drama My Teacher, Mr. Kim Remake is a Mexican remake of the 2003 South Korean film My Teacher, Mr. Kim to be directed by Celso Garcia, the fast-rising filmmaker whose multiple award-winning 2015 debut feature The Thin Yellow Line was produced by Guillermo del Toro. Mineko Mori is producing with Upgrade...
- 10/17/2022
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Rome’s innovative Mia market dedicated to international TV series, feature films, and documentaries kicks off its eighth edition Tuesday, headed by new chief Gaia Tridente, who has added an animation section and been busy raising the curated mart’s international profile.
The Oct. 11-15 Mia mart – its acronym stands for the Mercato Internazionale Audiovisivo or International Audiovisual Market – this year is positioned prior to the Mipcom content market and conference that runs Oct. 17-20 in Cannes, since Mipcom has shifted its dates back.
But this non-voluntary repositioning has not impacted the number of registered Mia attendees, which is up more than 12 compared with past editions. More than 900 international industry execs are registered for the boutique event being held in central Rome’s Palazzo Barberini, which is Italy’s National Ancient Art gallery that during Mia doubles as the market’s hub where company stands are set up amid Renaissance and Baroque masterpieces.
The Oct. 11-15 Mia mart – its acronym stands for the Mercato Internazionale Audiovisivo or International Audiovisual Market – this year is positioned prior to the Mipcom content market and conference that runs Oct. 17-20 in Cannes, since Mipcom has shifted its dates back.
But this non-voluntary repositioning has not impacted the number of registered Mia attendees, which is up more than 12 compared with past editions. More than 900 international industry execs are registered for the boutique event being held in central Rome’s Palazzo Barberini, which is Italy’s National Ancient Art gallery that during Mia doubles as the market’s hub where company stands are set up amid Renaissance and Baroque masterpieces.
- 10/11/2022
- by Nick Vivarelli
- Variety Film + TV
Actor and activist Mark Ruffalo, better known for his role as The Hulk, has signed on to executive produce an upcoming docuseries that explores the fight against systemic injustice for Native communities.
“Natives” aims to highlight the ground-breaking achievements of Indigenous activists and allies in what Ruffalo coins as “The Native Century” — an era in which younger and older generations of Natives can better get in touch with their cultural heritage.
Ruffalo is a three-time Oscar nominee and two-time Emmy winner for performances in works like the 2015 film “Spotlight” and 2020 miniseries “I Know This Much Is True.” Earlier this year, he executive produced the documentary “Lakota Nation vs. United States,” which exposes the exploitation of Native people by virtue of colonization from the late 1400s to modern day.
Working alongside Ruffalo are executive producers Sean Flax, Margaret Riley, Sarah Eagle Heart and showrunner David Check. Produced by Check Point Productions,...
“Natives” aims to highlight the ground-breaking achievements of Indigenous activists and allies in what Ruffalo coins as “The Native Century” — an era in which younger and older generations of Natives can better get in touch with their cultural heritage.
Ruffalo is a three-time Oscar nominee and two-time Emmy winner for performances in works like the 2015 film “Spotlight” and 2020 miniseries “I Know This Much Is True.” Earlier this year, he executive produced the documentary “Lakota Nation vs. United States,” which exposes the exploitation of Native people by virtue of colonization from the late 1400s to modern day.
Working alongside Ruffalo are executive producers Sean Flax, Margaret Riley, Sarah Eagle Heart and showrunner David Check. Produced by Check Point Productions,...
- 10/11/2022
- by Katie Reul and EJ Panaligan
- Variety Film + TV
The Los Angeles company is developing local-language series and films.
Matt Brodlie and Jonathan Kier’s Upgrade Productions has recruited former Mediawan and Leonine Studios executive Caroline Kusser as executive vice president, head of series.
Kusser will oversee series development, production and distribution strategy at Upgrade, the Los Angeles-based company launched a year ago to make local-language series and film for a global audience. Before Mediawan and Leonine she did stints at Fremantle and Red Arrow International, working on series including Picnic At Hanging Rock and The Sister.
Upgrade is backed by Germany’s Constantin Film and headed, as co-presidents,...
Matt Brodlie and Jonathan Kier’s Upgrade Productions has recruited former Mediawan and Leonine Studios executive Caroline Kusser as executive vice president, head of series.
Kusser will oversee series development, production and distribution strategy at Upgrade, the Los Angeles-based company launched a year ago to make local-language series and film for a global audience. Before Mediawan and Leonine she did stints at Fremantle and Red Arrow International, working on series including Picnic At Hanging Rock and The Sister.
Upgrade is backed by Germany’s Constantin Film and headed, as co-presidents,...
- 10/10/2022
- by John Hazelton
- ScreenDaily
Matt Brodlie and Jonathan Kier’s Upgrade Productions has signed up Mediawan and Leonine Studios co-pro exec Caroline Kusser to head up series.
Kusser joins the fledgling LA shingle in the newly-created EVP, Head of Series post after spending less than a year with Mediawan and Leonine. Past employers include Fremantle, where she was involved in co-production deals with Amazon, Netflix and Hulu, and Red Arrow International, where she was Senior Vice President in the U.S.
For Upgrade, which was launched last year by former Disney and Sierra execs Brodlie and Kier with backing from Constantin and a Bron partnership, she will oversee the development, distribution strategy and production of TV series projects.
Upgrade is focusing on producing premium local language series and films for a global audience, taking advantage of the global players’ penchant for local language programing.
“Caroline brings a wealth of development, production and distribution experience...
Kusser joins the fledgling LA shingle in the newly-created EVP, Head of Series post after spending less than a year with Mediawan and Leonine. Past employers include Fremantle, where she was involved in co-production deals with Amazon, Netflix and Hulu, and Red Arrow International, where she was Senior Vice President in the U.S.
For Upgrade, which was launched last year by former Disney and Sierra execs Brodlie and Kier with backing from Constantin and a Bron partnership, she will oversee the development, distribution strategy and production of TV series projects.
Upgrade is focusing on producing premium local language series and films for a global audience, taking advantage of the global players’ penchant for local language programing.
“Caroline brings a wealth of development, production and distribution experience...
- 10/10/2022
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Take That heart-throbs Gary Barlow, Howard Donald and Mark Owen are gearing up to conquer Cannes on Wednesday, the first time they’ve visited during the film festival. Let’s Pray that the sun will Shine and it will be their Greatest Day.
Fans of the (now middle-aged) boy band will know that Pray, Shine and Greatest Day are amongst the group’s biggest hits. It seems as if they wrote A Million Love Songs (that’s another one) that have stood the test of time since they formed over three decades ago.
The three remaining members of the band – Robbie Williams and Jason Orange do their own thing – will kick up their trendy trainers on the Majestic Pier to launch the exuberant promo for film Greatest Days, about a Take That -inspired 1990s boy band and the lives of five 16 year old girls who are obsessed with them.
Fans of the (now middle-aged) boy band will know that Pray, Shine and Greatest Day are amongst the group’s biggest hits. It seems as if they wrote A Million Love Songs (that’s another one) that have stood the test of time since they formed over three decades ago.
The three remaining members of the band – Robbie Williams and Jason Orange do their own thing – will kick up their trendy trainers on the Majestic Pier to launch the exuberant promo for film Greatest Days, about a Take That -inspired 1990s boy band and the lives of five 16 year old girls who are obsessed with them.
- 5/16/2022
- by Baz Bamigboye
- Deadline Film + TV
Upgrade Productions, the production company launched last year by Matt Brodlie and Jonathan Kier, is working on an epic Japanese-language TV series.
The company has teamed with venerable Japanese studio Shochiku to produce “A True Novel” as an eight-part adaptation of Mizumura Minae’s 2003 Yomiuri Prize-winning novel. Inspired by Emily Brontë’s “Wuthering Heights,” the sweeping family narrative is set in the decades after World War II in Japan and the U.S.
The series, adapted by screenwriter Sakaguchi Riko will bring to life a love story spanning three generations and told by different characters.
“The extraordinary team at Shochiku, one of Japan’s most innovative and successful studios, is the perfect partner on this show. ‘A True Novel’ is a beautiful story with universal themes. And to be collaborating with the incredibly talented Sakaguchi Riko is a dream come true. It’s an epic story which is appealing to global audiences,...
The company has teamed with venerable Japanese studio Shochiku to produce “A True Novel” as an eight-part adaptation of Mizumura Minae’s 2003 Yomiuri Prize-winning novel. Inspired by Emily Brontë’s “Wuthering Heights,” the sweeping family narrative is set in the decades after World War II in Japan and the U.S.
The series, adapted by screenwriter Sakaguchi Riko will bring to life a love story spanning three generations and told by different characters.
“The extraordinary team at Shochiku, one of Japan’s most innovative and successful studios, is the perfect partner on this show. ‘A True Novel’ is a beautiful story with universal themes. And to be collaborating with the incredibly talented Sakaguchi Riko is a dream come true. It’s an epic story which is appealing to global audiences,...
- 5/12/2022
- by Patrick Frater
- Variety Film + TV
Sweeping romance spans decades after Second World War.
Matt Brodlie and Jonathan Kier’s Upgrade Productions is partnering with Japanese production powerhouse Shochiku on the series A True Novel.
The eight-part Japanese-language series is produced by Shochiku, creator of the world’s longest-running feature film series Tora-san, and written by Riko Sakaguchi, whose credits include Oscar-nominated The Tale Of The Princess Kaguya, Mary And The Witches Flower and After The Rain.
Upgrade Productions serves as executive producer on the project, based on Minae Mizumura’s 2003 Japanese novel itself inspired by Emily Bronte’s Wuthering Heights. The sweeping saga is set...
Matt Brodlie and Jonathan Kier’s Upgrade Productions is partnering with Japanese production powerhouse Shochiku on the series A True Novel.
The eight-part Japanese-language series is produced by Shochiku, creator of the world’s longest-running feature film series Tora-san, and written by Riko Sakaguchi, whose credits include Oscar-nominated The Tale Of The Princess Kaguya, Mary And The Witches Flower and After The Rain.
Upgrade Productions serves as executive producer on the project, based on Minae Mizumura’s 2003 Japanese novel itself inspired by Emily Bronte’s Wuthering Heights. The sweeping saga is set...
- 5/12/2022
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Exclusive: Upgrade Productions, the Los Angeles-based production company focusing on local-language content, has unveiled an initial trio of projects from around the world.
Launched by industry vets Matt Brodlie (ex-Disney and Netflix) and Jonathan Kier (ex-Sierra/Affinity) late last year with backing from German major Constantin, the outfit is looking to feed into the current boom of content emerging from outside of the English-language that finds audiences on a global stage.
The first three projects confirmed, all expected to head into production in early 2023, are as follows:
Twenty Faces (Japan): Based on the popular books written by the Japanese mystery writer Edogawa Ranpo, the show is co-produced with leading Japanese production and distribution company The Klockworx (Crunchyroll’s Room Camp) and is produced with Akiko Funatsu (The Goddess of 1967). Anime writer Seishi Minakami (Paprika) is attached as writer. Ranpo published 62 books from the 1920s until his death in...
Launched by industry vets Matt Brodlie (ex-Disney and Netflix) and Jonathan Kier (ex-Sierra/Affinity) late last year with backing from German major Constantin, the outfit is looking to feed into the current boom of content emerging from outside of the English-language that finds audiences on a global stage.
The first three projects confirmed, all expected to head into production in early 2023, are as follows:
Twenty Faces (Japan): Based on the popular books written by the Japanese mystery writer Edogawa Ranpo, the show is co-produced with leading Japanese production and distribution company The Klockworx (Crunchyroll’s Room Camp) and is produced with Akiko Funatsu (The Goddess of 1967). Anime writer Seishi Minakami (Paprika) is attached as writer. Ranpo published 62 books from the 1920s until his death in...
- 4/28/2022
- by Tom Grater
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Relight My Fire! It required a little Patience but Take That movie Greatest Days, which will star Aisling Bea, has set its cast and financiers ahead of shoot next month. The question now is: Could It Be Magic?
Cast confirmed for the feel-good UK comedy-musical includes comedian and 2020 BAFTA winner Bea (This Way Up), Alice Lowe (Black Mirror), Amaka Okafor (The Responder), Jayde Adams (Serious Black Jumper), Marc Wootton (Nativity), Lara McDonnell (Belfast), Jessie Mae Alonzo (Little Joe), Nandi Hudson (Army of Thieves), Carragon Guest and Eliza Dobson.
The film’s boy band, modeled on Take That, will comprise newcomers Aaron Bryan, Dalvin Cory, Joshua Jung, Mark Samaras and Mervin Noronha.
Bron Releasing has boarded worldwide sales on the project, which heralds from Danny Perkins’ Elysian Film Group. Filming is set to get underway next month on location in London, Lancashire (Clitheroe) and Athens.
Karl Spoerri and Viviana Vezzani...
Cast confirmed for the feel-good UK comedy-musical includes comedian and 2020 BAFTA winner Bea (This Way Up), Alice Lowe (Black Mirror), Amaka Okafor (The Responder), Jayde Adams (Serious Black Jumper), Marc Wootton (Nativity), Lara McDonnell (Belfast), Jessie Mae Alonzo (Little Joe), Nandi Hudson (Army of Thieves), Carragon Guest and Eliza Dobson.
The film’s boy band, modeled on Take That, will comprise newcomers Aaron Bryan, Dalvin Cory, Joshua Jung, Mark Samaras and Mervin Noronha.
Bron Releasing has boarded worldwide sales on the project, which heralds from Danny Perkins’ Elysian Film Group. Filming is set to get underway next month on location in London, Lancashire (Clitheroe) and Athens.
Karl Spoerri and Viviana Vezzani...
- 3/24/2022
- by Andreas Wiseman
- Deadline Film + TV
Over the years, Matt Brodlie and Jonathan Kier have racked up the frequent flyer miles.
Brodlie, as senior vp of international content for Disney+ helped build a development slate of series for the streamer across Europe, Africa, Asia, Australia and Latin America. Before that, Brodlie managed the local-language film department at Paramount Vantage, oversaw local-language production in Spain, France and Italy for Sony, and, at the start of his career, snatched up non-English-language titles, such as Hero, Amélie and City Of God for U.S. release by Miramax.
Kier has been on the other side of the business, selling mostly English-language films to the ...
Brodlie, as senior vp of international content for Disney+ helped build a development slate of series for the streamer across Europe, Africa, Asia, Australia and Latin America. Before that, Brodlie managed the local-language film department at Paramount Vantage, oversaw local-language production in Spain, France and Italy for Sony, and, at the start of his career, snatched up non-English-language titles, such as Hero, Amélie and City Of God for U.S. release by Miramax.
Kier has been on the other side of the business, selling mostly English-language films to the ...
- 11/5/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
Over the years, Matt Brodlie and Jonathan Kier have racked up the frequent flyer miles.
Brodlie, as senior vp of international content for Disney+ helped build a development slate of series for the streamer across Europe, Africa, Asia, Australia and Latin America. Before that, Brodlie managed the local-language film department at Paramount Vantage, oversaw local-language production in Spain, France and Italy for Sony, and, at the start of his career, snatched up non-English-language titles, such as Hero, Amélie and City Of God for U.S. release by Miramax.
Kier has been on the other side of the business, selling mostly English-language films to the ...
Brodlie, as senior vp of international content for Disney+ helped build a development slate of series for the streamer across Europe, Africa, Asia, Australia and Latin America. Before that, Brodlie managed the local-language film department at Paramount Vantage, oversaw local-language production in Spain, France and Italy for Sony, and, at the start of his career, snatched up non-English-language titles, such as Hero, Amélie and City Of God for U.S. release by Miramax.
Kier has been on the other side of the business, selling mostly English-language films to the ...
- 11/5/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Exclusive: Producer and financier Bron (Joker) has appointed Jonathan Kier as President of sales, marketing and distribution arm Bron Releasing as part of Bron’s partnership with Kier’s recently launched Upgrade Productions.
Former Sierra/Affinity and TWC exec Kier will oversee sales activities for Bron’s feature slate, the Upgrade Productions film and TV titles and third-party content.
Last month, Kier and former Disney+ exec Matt Brodlie launched LA-based film and TV production label Upgrade Productions, which has a focus on international content. The company has backing from German major Constantin and announced a strategic partnership with Bron, which is now becoming clearer through this new distribution alliance.
Linda Jin, Director of Content Sales and Distribution at Bron will continue in her role under this new leadership structure and will be joined by Max Kondziolka, Manager of International Sales and Production. Bron will provide infrastructure support for the expanded releasing venture.
Former Sierra/Affinity and TWC exec Kier will oversee sales activities for Bron’s feature slate, the Upgrade Productions film and TV titles and third-party content.
Last month, Kier and former Disney+ exec Matt Brodlie launched LA-based film and TV production label Upgrade Productions, which has a focus on international content. The company has backing from German major Constantin and announced a strategic partnership with Bron, which is now becoming clearer through this new distribution alliance.
Linda Jin, Director of Content Sales and Distribution at Bron will continue in her role under this new leadership structure and will be joined by Max Kondziolka, Manager of International Sales and Production. Bron will provide infrastructure support for the expanded releasing venture.
- 11/1/2021
- by Andreas Wiseman
- Deadline Film + TV
Rome’s Mia Market for TV series, feature films, documentaries and factual content wrapped a watershed 7th edition on Sunday, having boosted its standing on the global calendar as a prominent emerging industry hub in Europe.
In a significant indicator of the Eternal City’s Oct. 13-17 event’s restart relevance Mia, organizers on the final day announced a total of 2,000 industry executives from 56 countries, all of whom attended the new-concept market in-person, while there were only 46 online attendees, mostly from Asia and Latin America due to coronavirus constraints that impeded travel to Italy from those countries.
While the Oct. 11-14 Mipcom market in Cannes suffered a reduced presence – and the AFM this year has gone entirely online – Mia reaped the benefits of being conceived more congenially to how the global content industry is evolving because it offered a wide range of product, plenty of which in early stages.
The...
In a significant indicator of the Eternal City’s Oct. 13-17 event’s restart relevance Mia, organizers on the final day announced a total of 2,000 industry executives from 56 countries, all of whom attended the new-concept market in-person, while there were only 46 online attendees, mostly from Asia and Latin America due to coronavirus constraints that impeded travel to Italy from those countries.
While the Oct. 11-14 Mipcom market in Cannes suffered a reduced presence – and the AFM this year has gone entirely online – Mia reaped the benefits of being conceived more congenially to how the global content industry is evolving because it offered a wide range of product, plenty of which in early stages.
The...
- 10/17/2021
- by Nick Vivarelli
- Variety Film + TV
It has been a tricky period for theatrical, but as a panel of leading European (and American) film industry experts highlighted today, change has been in the post and the cinema biz will need to adapt to survive.
Speaking during an event at the Mia Market in Rome, Michael Weber, MD at German indie The Match Factory, argued that there are simply too many films being made.
“There is an unbalance between what is produced and what the market can absorb, even with all these platforms. This is something we all have to think about,” he commented. “The last 18 months was an acceleration of what we’ve seen before, we have tried to prepare ourselves for it. For us it’s about identifying films that can still find an audience.”
Weber pointed to his recent hit Drive My Car as an example of a film that ticks that box. The three-hour Japanese movie,...
Speaking during an event at the Mia Market in Rome, Michael Weber, MD at German indie The Match Factory, argued that there are simply too many films being made.
“There is an unbalance between what is produced and what the market can absorb, even with all these platforms. This is something we all have to think about,” he commented. “The last 18 months was an acceleration of what we’ve seen before, we have tried to prepare ourselves for it. For us it’s about identifying films that can still find an audience.”
Weber pointed to his recent hit Drive My Car as an example of a film that ticks that box. The three-hour Japanese movie,...
- 10/14/2021
- by Tom Grater
- Deadline Film + TV
Industry vets Matt Brodlie and Jonathan Kier are joining forces to launch their own Los Angeles-based banner, Upgrade Productions, which will focus on international content.
The company has backing from German major Constantin Film as well as a strategic partnership with Bron (more details to follow on the latter). The outfit will develop and produce premium local-language film and series, capitalizing on the current boom in that type of content, which is primarily being propelled by the streamers with hits such as Squid Game, Lupin and Dark.
Brodlie was most recently Senior Vice President of International Content for Disney+, where he led the content strategy for the company in all non-u.S. markets. He was previously director of Original Film at Netflix where he was responsible for pics including Set It Up and To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before, and also held roles at Paramount and Sony.
Kier joins...
The company has backing from German major Constantin Film as well as a strategic partnership with Bron (more details to follow on the latter). The outfit will develop and produce premium local-language film and series, capitalizing on the current boom in that type of content, which is primarily being propelled by the streamers with hits such as Squid Game, Lupin and Dark.
Brodlie was most recently Senior Vice President of International Content for Disney+, where he led the content strategy for the company in all non-u.S. markets. He was previously director of Original Film at Netflix where he was responsible for pics including Set It Up and To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before, and also held roles at Paramount and Sony.
Kier joins...
- 10/12/2021
- by Tom Grater
- Deadline Film + TV
Former Disney Plus and Netflix executive Matt Brodlie and ex-Sierra/Affinity president Jonathan Kier have teamed to launch Los Angeles-based Upgrade Productions. The duo will serve as co-presidents.
With backing from German powerhouse Constantin Film and a strategic partnership with Bron, Upgrade will develop and produce premium local language productions for a global audience. Upgrade is financing development of original IP with local authors, filmmakers and showrunners, including in Eastern Europe, Latin America and Japan. The outfit’s first feature film and television projects are expected to be revealed imminently.
Joining Brodlie and Kier at Upgrade are former Sierra/Affinity executive Max Kondziolka as manager of international sales and production; and Clara Bartlett as content manager after working with Brodlie at Disney Plus and Netflix.
“There has been a profound shift in the viewing habits around the globe that has led to a dramatic increase in the demand for foreign language films and series,...
With backing from German powerhouse Constantin Film and a strategic partnership with Bron, Upgrade will develop and produce premium local language productions for a global audience. Upgrade is financing development of original IP with local authors, filmmakers and showrunners, including in Eastern Europe, Latin America and Japan. The outfit’s first feature film and television projects are expected to be revealed imminently.
Joining Brodlie and Kier at Upgrade are former Sierra/Affinity executive Max Kondziolka as manager of international sales and production; and Clara Bartlett as content manager after working with Brodlie at Disney Plus and Netflix.
“There has been a profound shift in the viewing habits around the globe that has led to a dramatic increase in the demand for foreign language films and series,...
- 10/12/2021
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
Partners lining up film, TV slate, currently attending Mia market in Rome.
Highly regarded industry veterans Matt Brodlie and Jonathan Kier have launched Los Angeles-based Upgrade Productions to develop and produce premium local-language film and TV for a global audience.
Backed by German powerhouse Constantin Film and with a strategic partnership in place with Bron, Upgrade aims to exploit the boom in demand for local-language content as the co-founders leverage deep relationships and experience in sales, acquisition and producing to partner with content creators around the world.
Brodlie, who most recently served as SVP international content at Disney+, and Kier,...
Highly regarded industry veterans Matt Brodlie and Jonathan Kier have launched Los Angeles-based Upgrade Productions to develop and produce premium local-language film and TV for a global audience.
Backed by German powerhouse Constantin Film and with a strategic partnership in place with Bron, Upgrade aims to exploit the boom in demand for local-language content as the co-founders leverage deep relationships and experience in sales, acquisition and producing to partner with content creators around the world.
Brodlie, who most recently served as SVP international content at Disney+, and Kier,...
- 10/12/2021
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Joker backer Bron and Resident Evil producer Constantin Film are getting behind Upgrade Productions, the new production outfit from industry veterans Matt Brodlie and Jonathan Kier. With their new Los Angeles-based label, Brodlie and Kier aim to develop and produce high-end local-language films and series for a global audience.
Constantin will take an equity stake in the company, and will collaborate with Upgrade on selected projects. Bron, a Canadian-based studio whose recent production credits include Nia DaCosta’s horror-thriller Candyman and Paul Thomas Anderson’s upcoming Licorice Pizza, will have a strategic partnership with the company.
Upgrade is looking to capitalize on the surging ...
Constantin will take an equity stake in the company, and will collaborate with Upgrade on selected projects. Bron, a Canadian-based studio whose recent production credits include Nia DaCosta’s horror-thriller Candyman and Paul Thomas Anderson’s upcoming Licorice Pizza, will have a strategic partnership with the company.
Upgrade is looking to capitalize on the surging ...
- 10/12/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Joker backer Bron and Resident Evil producer Constantin Film are getting behind Upgrade Productions, the new production outfit from industry veterans Matt Brodlie and Jonathan Kier. With their new Los Angeles-based label, Brodlie and Kier aim to develop and produce high-end local-language films and series for a global audience.
Constantin will take an equity stake in the company, and will collaborate with Upgrade on selected projects. Bron, a Canadian-based studio whose recent production credits include Nia DaCosta’s horror-thriller Candyman and Paul Thomas Anderson’s upcoming Licorice Pizza, will have a strategic partnership with the company.
Upgrade is looking to capitalize on the surging ...
Constantin will take an equity stake in the company, and will collaborate with Upgrade on selected projects. Bron, a Canadian-based studio whose recent production credits include Nia DaCosta’s horror-thriller Candyman and Paul Thomas Anderson’s upcoming Licorice Pizza, will have a strategic partnership with the company.
Upgrade is looking to capitalize on the surging ...
- 10/12/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
French star, streamer currently collaborating on action comedy Tour De Force to be directed by Louis Leterrier.
Netflix and its Lupin star Omar Sy have signed a multi-year feature deal that will see Sy’s Paris and LA-based production company develop original films for Netflix.
Sy will star in and serve as executive producer on the projects. The deal follows the breakout success of French heist series Lupin created by George Kay in which Sy plays Assane Diop, a character inspired by the French story of thief Arsène Lupin.
Sy and Netflix are currently collaborating on action comedy Tour De Force...
Netflix and its Lupin star Omar Sy have signed a multi-year feature deal that will see Sy’s Paris and LA-based production company develop original films for Netflix.
Sy will star in and serve as executive producer on the projects. The deal follows the breakout success of French heist series Lupin created by George Kay in which Sy plays Assane Diop, a character inspired by the French story of thief Arsène Lupin.
Sy and Netflix are currently collaborating on action comedy Tour De Force...
- 10/12/2021
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
The event will take place in-person from October 13-17.
Executives from HBO Max, MGM and Studiocanal are among those who will participate in the seventh edition of Rome’s International Audiovisual Market (Mia), which will run in person from October 13-17.
Mia’s 2021 programme of panels, content showcases and screenings will be split across three sections: scripted, unscripted and strategic development.
The scripted division is comprised of two boards of industry executives, for film and for drama.
Executives will offer guidance to Mia attendees and inform the Mia programme; exact involvement for each executive is to-be-confirmed.
Those on the film board include Edoardo Bussi,...
Executives from HBO Max, MGM and Studiocanal are among those who will participate in the seventh edition of Rome’s International Audiovisual Market (Mia), which will run in person from October 13-17.
Mia’s 2021 programme of panels, content showcases and screenings will be split across three sections: scripted, unscripted and strategic development.
The scripted division is comprised of two boards of industry executives, for film and for drama.
Executives will offer guidance to Mia attendees and inform the Mia programme; exact involvement for each executive is to-be-confirmed.
Those on the film board include Edoardo Bussi,...
- 7/30/2021
- by Ben Dalton
- ScreenDaily
Rome’s growing Mia market, dedicated to international TV series, feature films and documentaries, is on track to take place as a mostly in-person Oct. 13-17 event, for which a robust clutch of top U.S. and European execs are expected to make the trek.
“We are getting a great response: lots of confirmations and great willingness to attend,” said Mia director Lucia Milazzotto (pictured), adding that pulling off last year’s market in the Eternal City as a partly physical event “when the pandemic situation was a lot worse” has “certainly paid off” in terms of getting people to attend this year.
Despite concerns about the Delta variant, certified vaccinations are expected to ensure a measure of safety for the event in October.
While companies such as ITV Studios and Banijay are bowing out from the Oct. 11-14 Mipcom market in Cannes, Mia has recruited an impressive roster of...
“We are getting a great response: lots of confirmations and great willingness to attend,” said Mia director Lucia Milazzotto (pictured), adding that pulling off last year’s market in the Eternal City as a partly physical event “when the pandemic situation was a lot worse” has “certainly paid off” in terms of getting people to attend this year.
Despite concerns about the Delta variant, certified vaccinations are expected to ensure a measure of safety for the event in October.
While companies such as ITV Studios and Banijay are bowing out from the Oct. 11-14 Mipcom market in Cannes, Mia has recruited an impressive roster of...
- 7/29/2021
- by Nick Vivarelli
- Variety Film + TV
Jonathan Kier hails indie buyer response during ”incredibly productive” market.
Sierra/Affinity has finalised a raft of major territory deals on its Cannes virtual market slate in the latest encouraging show of strength by independent international buyers.
Sierra/Affinity president Jonathan Kier noted a “robust and enthusiastic” reaction from distributors to The United States Vs. Billie Holiday, Arthur The King, and Greatest Days.
Rights to Lee Daniels’ The United States Vs. Billie Holiday, which is in post-production and will get an Oscar-qualifying Us release via Paramount in the upcoming awards cycle, have gone to eOne in the UK and Spain,...
Sierra/Affinity has finalised a raft of major territory deals on its Cannes virtual market slate in the latest encouraging show of strength by independent international buyers.
Sierra/Affinity president Jonathan Kier noted a “robust and enthusiastic” reaction from distributors to The United States Vs. Billie Holiday, Arthur The King, and Greatest Days.
Rights to Lee Daniels’ The United States Vs. Billie Holiday, which is in post-production and will get an Oscar-qualifying Us release via Paramount in the upcoming awards cycle, have gone to eOne in the UK and Spain,...
- 7/13/2020
- by 36¦Jeremy Kay¦54¦
- ScreenDaily
Deals were done, buzz was built, and the tech could create a new future for markets.
Despite global economic downturn and an impenetrable fog shrouding the immediate future of the film industry, participants in the Us agency-led side of the virtual Cannes market reported the customary appetite for content and a willingness to do business.
International deals – such as those that AGC Studios closed on Pierre Morel’s action thriller The Blacksmith – took place during the official five days of technology-enabled presentations and video conferences, as well-prepared buyers looked to fill pipelines for 2021 and 2022.
More sales are expected to emerge...
Despite global economic downturn and an impenetrable fog shrouding the immediate future of the film industry, participants in the Us agency-led side of the virtual Cannes market reported the customary appetite for content and a willingness to do business.
International deals – such as those that AGC Studios closed on Pierre Morel’s action thriller The Blacksmith – took place during the official five days of technology-enabled presentations and video conferences, as well-prepared buyers looked to fill pipelines for 2021 and 2022.
More sales are expected to emerge...
- 7/2/2020
- by 36¦Jeremy Kay¦54¦
- ScreenDaily
Deals were done, buzz was built, and the tech could create a new future for markets.
Despite global economic downturn and an impenetrable fog shrouding the immediate future of the film industry, participants in the Us agency-led side of the virtual Cannes market reported the customary appetite for content and a willingness to do business.
International deals – such as those that AGC Studios closed on Pierre Morel’s action thriller The Blacksmith – took place during the official five days of technology-enabled presentations and video conferences, as well-prepared buyers looked to fill pipelines for 2021 and 2022.
More sales are expected to emerge...
Despite global economic downturn and an impenetrable fog shrouding the immediate future of the film industry, participants in the Us agency-led side of the virtual Cannes market reported the customary appetite for content and a willingness to do business.
International deals – such as those that AGC Studios closed on Pierre Morel’s action thriller The Blacksmith – took place during the official five days of technology-enabled presentations and video conferences, as well-prepared buyers looked to fill pipelines for 2021 and 2022.
More sales are expected to emerge...
- 7/2/2020
- by 36¦Jeremy Kay¦54¦
- ScreenDaily
Drama to chronicle celebrated jazz singer’s struggles with fame, addiction, love.
Paramount has acquired Us rights to Lee Daniels’ hot Cannes virtual market package The United States Vs. Billie Holiday in what was believed to be a deal in the region of $8m on Wednesday evening (July 1).
Jonathan Kier and his team at Sierra/Affinity screened a promo last week and were fielding multiple international offers on the drama. International interest is expected to intensify now on what has emerged as one of the big independent hits of the market.
The plan is for Paramount to release wide in...
Paramount has acquired Us rights to Lee Daniels’ hot Cannes virtual market package The United States Vs. Billie Holiday in what was believed to be a deal in the region of $8m on Wednesday evening (July 1).
Jonathan Kier and his team at Sierra/Affinity screened a promo last week and were fielding multiple international offers on the drama. International interest is expected to intensify now on what has emerged as one of the big independent hits of the market.
The plan is for Paramount to release wide in...
- 7/2/2020
- by 36¦Jeremy Kay¦54¦
- ScreenDaily
Drama to chronicle celebrated jazz singer’s struggles with fame, addiction, love.
Paramount has acquired Us rights to Lee Daniels’ hot Cannes virtual market package The United States Vs. Billie Holiday in a deal believed to be in the high seven figures on Wednesday evening (July 1).
Jonathan Kier and his team at Sierra/Affinity screened a promo last week and were fielding multiple international offers on the drama. International interest is expected to intensify now on what has emerged as one of the big independent hits of the market.
The plan is for Paramount to release wide in the Us...
Paramount has acquired Us rights to Lee Daniels’ hot Cannes virtual market package The United States Vs. Billie Holiday in a deal believed to be in the high seven figures on Wednesday evening (July 1).
Jonathan Kier and his team at Sierra/Affinity screened a promo last week and were fielding multiple international offers on the drama. International interest is expected to intensify now on what has emerged as one of the big independent hits of the market.
The plan is for Paramount to release wide in the Us...
- 7/2/2020
- by 36¦Jeremy Kay¦54¦
- ScreenDaily
Drama to chronicle celebrated jazz singer’s struggles with fame, addiction, love.
Paramount has acquired Us rights to Lee Daniels’ hot Cannes virtual market package The United States Vs. Billie Holiday in a deal believed to be in the $8m region on Wednesday evening (July 1).
Jonathan Kier and his team at Sierra/Affinity were fielding multiple international offers on the drama at time of writing. That company and Endeavor Content, who jointly represented Us rights with executive producer Cassian Elwes, introduced the project to buyers last week. Other buyers including 101 Studios had been circling Us rights.
The timely story...
Paramount has acquired Us rights to Lee Daniels’ hot Cannes virtual market package The United States Vs. Billie Holiday in a deal believed to be in the $8m region on Wednesday evening (July 1).
Jonathan Kier and his team at Sierra/Affinity were fielding multiple international offers on the drama at time of writing. That company and Endeavor Content, who jointly represented Us rights with executive producer Cassian Elwes, introduced the project to buyers last week. Other buyers including 101 Studios had been circling Us rights.
The timely story...
- 7/2/2020
- by 36¦Jeremy Kay¦54¦
- ScreenDaily
Inernational membership swells nearly 200% over four years.
The Us Academy has achieved its goal of doubling the number of female members and those from under-represented ethnical and racial groups in the last four years, the organisation said as it announced the latest list of invitees on Tuesday (June 30).
The 819 people invited to join from all areas of the film industry include Cannes head Thierry Fremaux, Cynthia Erivo, Florence Pugh, Atlantics director Mati Diop, Les Misérables director Ladj Ly, and Iranian filmmaker Samira Makhmalbaf.
Directors Lulu Wang and Wash Westmoreland have been invited, as have producers Tarak Ben Ammar (Black Gold...
The Us Academy has achieved its goal of doubling the number of female members and those from under-represented ethnical and racial groups in the last four years, the organisation said as it announced the latest list of invitees on Tuesday (June 30).
The 819 people invited to join from all areas of the film industry include Cannes head Thierry Fremaux, Cynthia Erivo, Florence Pugh, Atlantics director Mati Diop, Les Misérables director Ladj Ly, and Iranian filmmaker Samira Makhmalbaf.
Directors Lulu Wang and Wash Westmoreland have been invited, as have producers Tarak Ben Ammar (Black Gold...
- 6/30/2020
- by 36¦Jeremy Kay¦54¦
- ScreenDaily
Inernational membership swells nearly 200% over four years.
The Academy has achieved its goal of doubling the number of female members and those from under-represented ethnical and racial groups in the last four years, the organisation said as it announced the latest list of invitees on Tuesday (June 30).
The 819 people invited to join from all areas of the film industry include Cannes head Thierry Fremaux, Cynthia Erivo, Florence Pugh, Atlantics director Mati Diop, Les Misérables director Ladj Ly, and Iranian filmmaker Samira Makhmalbaf.
Directors Lulu Wang and Wash Westmoreland have been invited, as have producers Tarak Ben Ammar (Black Gold), Pippa Harris...
The Academy has achieved its goal of doubling the number of female members and those from under-represented ethnical and racial groups in the last four years, the organisation said as it announced the latest list of invitees on Tuesday (June 30).
The 819 people invited to join from all areas of the film industry include Cannes head Thierry Fremaux, Cynthia Erivo, Florence Pugh, Atlantics director Mati Diop, Les Misérables director Ladj Ly, and Iranian filmmaker Samira Makhmalbaf.
Directors Lulu Wang and Wash Westmoreland have been invited, as have producers Tarak Ben Ammar (Black Gold), Pippa Harris...
- 6/30/2020
- by 36¦Jeremy Kay¦54¦
- ScreenDaily
Inernational membership swells nearly 200% over four years.
The Academy has achieved its goal of doubling the number of female members and those from under-represented ethnical and racial groups in the last four years, the organisation said as it announced the latest list of invitees on Tuesday (June 30).
The 819 people invited to join from all areas of the film industry include Cynthia Erivo, Florence Pugh, Atlantics director Mati Diop, Les Misérables director Ladj Ly, and Iranian filmmaker Samira Makhmalbaf.
Directors Lulu Wang and Wash Westmoreland have been invited, as have producers Tarak Ben Ammar (Black Gold), Pippa Harris (1917), Jessica Elbaum (Booksmart...
The Academy has achieved its goal of doubling the number of female members and those from under-represented ethnical and racial groups in the last four years, the organisation said as it announced the latest list of invitees on Tuesday (June 30).
The 819 people invited to join from all areas of the film industry include Cynthia Erivo, Florence Pugh, Atlantics director Mati Diop, Les Misérables director Ladj Ly, and Iranian filmmaker Samira Makhmalbaf.
Directors Lulu Wang and Wash Westmoreland have been invited, as have producers Tarak Ben Ammar (Black Gold), Pippa Harris (1917), Jessica Elbaum (Booksmart...
- 6/30/2020
- by 36¦Jeremy Kay¦54¦
- ScreenDaily
Production budgets on U.S. independent movies are regularly too high to make them viable in the international sales marketplace, but it’s no easy task for producers to cut them, said speakers at the Zurich Summit yesterday (September 28).
Talking at the event, Thorsten Schumacher, founder and CEO of international sales outfit Rocket Science, said that budgets have been getting tighter in recent years, but they still need to decrease by up to half to make them realistic prospects.
“Budgets have come down but they still should come down a lot more”, the sales vet posited. “U.S. films often need to come down by up to 50%. It feels like if you’re making European films, budgets are ok.”
Speaking on a later panel, Black Swan and Jackie producer Scott Franklin said that he was constantly aware of the need to keep budgets in check.
“Almost every film that we’ve done,...
Talking at the event, Thorsten Schumacher, founder and CEO of international sales outfit Rocket Science, said that budgets have been getting tighter in recent years, but they still need to decrease by up to half to make them realistic prospects.
“Budgets have come down but they still should come down a lot more”, the sales vet posited. “U.S. films often need to come down by up to 50%. It feels like if you’re making European films, budgets are ok.”
Speaking on a later panel, Black Swan and Jackie producer Scott Franklin said that he was constantly aware of the need to keep budgets in check.
“Almost every film that we’ve done,...
- 9/29/2019
- by Tom Grater
- Deadline Film + TV
Sierra/Affinity is handling foreign on eOne and Tucker Tooley Entertainment’s upcoming Den of Thieves 2: Pantera.
Gerard Butler and O’Shea Jackson Jr are reprising their roles as Big Nick O’Brien and Donnie Wilson. In the sequel, being written and directed by Christian Gudegast is back on the hunt on the mean-streets of Europe closing in on Donnie (Jackson Jr.) who is embroiled in the dangerous world of diamond thieves and the infamous Panther mafia, as they plot a massive heist of the world’s biggest diamond exchange. Meadow Williams will also return as Holly in the film.
The pic’s original producers, which include Tooley, Mark Canton, Alan Siegel and Butler, will produce the sequel, and Williams will executive produce. It is expected that Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson will join in a producing capacity as well. eOne...
Gerard Butler and O’Shea Jackson Jr are reprising their roles as Big Nick O’Brien and Donnie Wilson. In the sequel, being written and directed by Christian Gudegast is back on the hunt on the mean-streets of Europe closing in on Donnie (Jackson Jr.) who is embroiled in the dangerous world of diamond thieves and the infamous Panther mafia, as they plot a massive heist of the world’s biggest diamond exchange. Meadow Williams will also return as Holly in the film.
The pic’s original producers, which include Tooley, Mark Canton, Alan Siegel and Butler, will produce the sequel, and Williams will executive produce. It is expected that Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson will join in a producing capacity as well. eOne...
- 5/16/2019
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Sierra/Affinity will be selling foreign on Charlie Day’s feature directorial debut El Tonto later this month at Cannes.
The Hollywood comedy, produced by Armory Films and Wrigley Pictures stars Day as an outcast mute who after arriving in Los Angeles by bus, becomes catapulted into becoming a celebrity, only to lose it all.
Day also wrote the feature which stars Kate Beckinsale, Adrien Brody, Ken Jeong, Jason Sudeikis, Ray Liotta, Common, Edie Falco, Jillian Bell and John Malkovich.
El Tonto is fully financed by Armory Film’s Christopher Lemole and Tim Zajaros. The pic is produced by Wrigley Pictures’ John Rickard, Armory’s Chris Lemole and Tim Zajaros, and Alex Saks. Principal photography wrapped last November in Los Angeles, and the film is currently in post.
Jonathan Kier, Sierra/Affinity’s President of Sales and Distribution, stated, “We are absolutely thrilled to be partnering with such an immensely talented group of actors,...
The Hollywood comedy, produced by Armory Films and Wrigley Pictures stars Day as an outcast mute who after arriving in Los Angeles by bus, becomes catapulted into becoming a celebrity, only to lose it all.
Day also wrote the feature which stars Kate Beckinsale, Adrien Brody, Ken Jeong, Jason Sudeikis, Ray Liotta, Common, Edie Falco, Jillian Bell and John Malkovich.
El Tonto is fully financed by Armory Film’s Christopher Lemole and Tim Zajaros. The pic is produced by Wrigley Pictures’ John Rickard, Armory’s Chris Lemole and Tim Zajaros, and Alex Saks. Principal photography wrapped last November in Los Angeles, and the film is currently in post.
Jonathan Kier, Sierra/Affinity’s President of Sales and Distribution, stated, “We are absolutely thrilled to be partnering with such an immensely talented group of actors,...
- 5/7/2019
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
‘Everything is changing around us and we’re going with the flow.’
Netflix is not entirely to blame for market woes in the independent sector, a panel of international sales agents said at the Entertainment Finance Forum presented by Winston Baker on Wednesday (27).
Despite frequent stories about the challenges of selling into the UK, Germany and France, Highland Film Group COO Delphine Perrier said the overall effect of market forces were the cause.
“Everything is changing around us and we’re going with the flow,” said Perrier. Sierra/Affinity president of sales and distribution Jonathan Kier noted the role of geopolitics.
Netflix is not entirely to blame for market woes in the independent sector, a panel of international sales agents said at the Entertainment Finance Forum presented by Winston Baker on Wednesday (27).
Despite frequent stories about the challenges of selling into the UK, Germany and France, Highland Film Group COO Delphine Perrier said the overall effect of market forces were the cause.
“Everything is changing around us and we’re going with the flow,” said Perrier. Sierra/Affinity president of sales and distribution Jonathan Kier noted the role of geopolitics.
- 2/27/2019
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
After a vibrant Sundance, driven by Amazon Studios’ $47 million spending spree, can Berlin sales prove as buoyant? While there are some intriguing titles, indies have to contend with, among many factors, very active buyers from deep-pocketed streamers and a volatile theatrical box office in many territories.
Certainly there are star-studded titles. FilmNation will sell Hugh Jackman starrer “Reminiscence,” a sci-fi romance thriller from “Westworld” creator Lisa Joy. Aaron Sorkin directs “The Trial of the Chicago 7” that sports a starry cast including Seth Rogen and Eddie Redmayne. Rocket Science is handling sales.
In other high-profile offerings, Agc Studios is shopping sci-fi thriller “Voyagers” from Neil Burger (“Divergent”).
Mel Gibson and Tye Sheridan star in Imr Intl.’s thriller “Black Flies,” which screens a promo of Guy Ritchie’s crime actioner “Bush,” with Matthew McConaughey.
Sierra/Affinity reps true-crime drama “Silk Road,” with Nick Robinson and Jason Clarke, and “Lexi,” a “really cool comedy,...
Certainly there are star-studded titles. FilmNation will sell Hugh Jackman starrer “Reminiscence,” a sci-fi romance thriller from “Westworld” creator Lisa Joy. Aaron Sorkin directs “The Trial of the Chicago 7” that sports a starry cast including Seth Rogen and Eddie Redmayne. Rocket Science is handling sales.
In other high-profile offerings, Agc Studios is shopping sci-fi thriller “Voyagers” from Neil Burger (“Divergent”).
Mel Gibson and Tye Sheridan star in Imr Intl.’s thriller “Black Flies,” which screens a promo of Guy Ritchie’s crime actioner “Bush,” with Matthew McConaughey.
Sierra/Affinity reps true-crime drama “Silk Road,” with Nick Robinson and Jason Clarke, and “Lexi,” a “really cool comedy,...
- 2/7/2019
- by John Hopewell
- Variety Film + TV
Jason Clarke and Nick Robinson will star in the crime drama “Silk Road,” directed and written by Tiller Russell.
Sierra/Affinity is launching international sales of the pic at the upcoming European Film Market at the Berlin Film Festival.
The movie, based on David Kushner’s 2014 Rolling Stone article “Dead End on Silk Road,” is about a criminal mastermind who unleashed the Dark Net and the “Jurassic Narc” bent on bringing down the young kingpin’s billion-dollar empire.
“Silk Road” is produced by Duncan Montgomery and Jack Selby via the High Frequency Entertainment banner, Alex Orlovsky and Elika Portnoy for Mutressa Movies, and David Hyman and Stephen Gans on behalf of Perfect Season Productions.
“Tiller Russell has an amazing voice as a documentary filmmaker and writer,” Orlovsky and Montgomery said. “Few understand the world of law enforcement and the modern criminal like him. Tiller will tell this story with the...
Sierra/Affinity is launching international sales of the pic at the upcoming European Film Market at the Berlin Film Festival.
The movie, based on David Kushner’s 2014 Rolling Stone article “Dead End on Silk Road,” is about a criminal mastermind who unleashed the Dark Net and the “Jurassic Narc” bent on bringing down the young kingpin’s billion-dollar empire.
“Silk Road” is produced by Duncan Montgomery and Jack Selby via the High Frequency Entertainment banner, Alex Orlovsky and Elika Portnoy for Mutressa Movies, and David Hyman and Stephen Gans on behalf of Perfect Season Productions.
“Tiller Russell has an amazing voice as a documentary filmmaker and writer,” Orlovsky and Montgomery said. “Few understand the world of law enforcement and the modern criminal like him. Tiller will tell this story with the...
- 1/30/2019
- by Dave McNary
- Variety Film + TV
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