First Hand Films Expands Into Production

April 5, 2011 World Screen

CANNES: Swiss distributor First Hand Films has expanded into production by launching a new independent production entity, Kiss the Frog Films, which has secured its first title, Women 40’s (working title).

The new subsidiary will focus on transmedia projects, as well as initiating, co-producing and executive producing documentaries and other non-fiction programming. Kiss the Frog Films will also develop and produce its own in-house projects.
 
Women 40’s takes a look at the world women face when they reach their forties. The female experience is explored through a mix of original stories from women around the world of various ethnic groups and social classes.
 
Women 40’s will be delivered as a one-off documentary and via online platforms, mobile devices and other new media. It was executive produced by Esther van Messel, the CEO of First Hand Films, produced by Sandrine Brauer of Elzévir & Cie.
 
Messel said: “Since I established First Hand Films as a distribution company back in 1998, over the years our activities have also involved raising funds, co-developing and executive producing on various projects to some degree. We have continued to build momentum with this side of the business, and as such, we feel it makes perfect sense to now establish a production company.”

 

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