In an innovative move towards collaboration and efficiency, three prominent distributors—About Premium Content (APC), Hat Trick International (HTI), and DCD Rights—are joining forces for the upcoming London TV Screenings event. Scheduled for February 25, 2025, at the Vue West End in Leicester Square, this united front aims to streamline the viewing experience for international buyers amid the bustling schedule of screenings that characterize this pivotal week in the industry.
Emmanuelle Guilbart and Laurent Boisse, co-founders of APC, along with HTI’s Sarah Tong, emphasized the need for a more consolidated offering. The sheer volume of programming and screenings taking place across London can overwhelm acquisition executives, who are often pressed for time. By collaborating, these distributors hope to provide an effective platform that allows buyers to explore diverse content without the burden of navigating a myriad of individual events. DCD Rights, which has historically co-hosted events with Hat Trick at this venue, welcomes APC into the fold, underscoring the evolving dynamics within the distribution landscape.
Nicky Davies-Williams, CEO of DCD Rights, voiced her enthusiasm about the collaboration, predicting that this year’s gatherings would become an unmissable occasion in the calendar of industry stakeholders. The trio recognizes not only the logistical challenges buyers face during this proliferating event but also the opportunity to foster meaningful connections through curated showcases. Their hopeful outlook for a fruitful event seems grounded in the wisdom of collective effort, and buyers can anticipate a rich array of programs this February.
World Premiere of ‘Bun Tikki’ at Palm Springs
Turning the spotlight to independent film, Jio Studios, in association with Manish Malhotra’s Stage5 Productions, is poised to unveil ‘Bun Tikki’ at the 36th Palm Springs International Film Festival (PSIFF) on January 5, 2025. This heartfelt coming-of-age story examines the nuances of the father-son relationship through the eyes of young Shanu, who embarks on a journey of self-discovery amidst societal expectations. The film pairs a simple familial narrative with deeper themes of grief and resilience, as Sidhant navigates the complexities of fatherhood alone.
The film marks the feature directorial debut of Faraz Arif Ansari and features an illustrious cast, including revered names like Shabana Azmi and Abhay Deol, promising to attract attention not only for its exciting ensemble but also for the poignant storytelling. The collaboration between Jio Studios and Stage5 is noteworthy, as they previously delivered ‘Saali Mohabbat’ during The International Film Festival of India, suggesting a growing synergy between these production entities.
The narrative structure of ‘Bun Tikki’ is particularly compelling as it tackles generational and social issues front and center. Set against the backdrop of contemporary India, the film seeks to resonate with audiences worldwide who can relate to the universal themes of love, loss, and identity.
Coming to Grips with Reality: ‘Red Alert’ on October 7 Events
In a weightier vein, Lawrence Bender, renowned producer of acclaimed works such as ‘Pulp Fiction’, has announced his participation in the creation of ‘Red Alert’, an Israeli drama that delves into the traumatic events surrounding the October 7 attacks. Bender heads the impressive team of executive producers on this five-part series produced by Keshet 12 and Keshet International, alongside a diverse assembly of industry professionals.
The creative force behind ‘Red Alert’, helmed by Lior Chefetz, promises a raw and authentic portrayal of the chaos and emotional turmoil faced by ordinary citizens during the Hamas-led attack in October 2023. The project is developed in close collaboration with survivors and victims’ families, enhancing its credibility and emotional weight. This participatory approach signifies an emerging trend in media, where creators prioritize authenticity by involving those with lived experiences of trauma.
With production slated to commence in Spring 2025, the series intends to depict the harrowing decisions made by individuals thrust into life-or-death situations, filmed across Hebrew, Arabic, and English. As audiences seek content that reflects both personal narratives and global events, ‘Red Alert’ may serve as a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit amidst adversity.
The upcoming events in film and television showcase the industry’s adaptability through strategic alliances and poignant storytelling. Whether it is the collaborative screenings in London or the unveiling of emotionally charged narratives like ‘Bun Tikki’ and ‘Red Alert’, creators and distributors are redefining the landscape of global media. As we move forward, it becomes increasingly evident that the future of content creation lies in both collaboration and authenticity, promising richer narratives that resonate with an ever-diverse audience.
Leave a Reply