NGCI, Off the Fence, MDA Align for Original HD Content Initiative

CANNES,
October 9: National Geographic
Channels International (NGCI), Off the Fence and the Media Development
Authority of Singapore (MDA) have joined forces for a multimillion-dollar
initiative to commission 15 one-hour original documentary programs in
high-definition from Singaporean filmmakers.

The initiative will be
jointly led by NGCI and Off the Fence’s recently opened production office in
Singapore. The multimillion-dollar partnership will enable the production of 15
titles over the next three years. NGCI and Off the Fence will share their
experience and skills with a range of Singaporean producers to develop
high-quality, globally appealing documentaries designed to meet the growing
requirement for HD programming worldwide. These programs will premiere on NGCI
to 190 million homes in 165 countries. Off the Fence will retain all rights in
Germany, France and the U.S. and will distribute the programming worldwide. The
first three projects in the first year have been awarded to the Singapore
production companies Beach House Production Pictures, The Moving Visual Co. and
Right Angle Media.

“National Geographic
Channels International is pleased to partner with leading production companies
like Off the Fence and the MDA,” said Sydney Suissa, the executive VP of
content for NGCI. “By providing resources and creating more opportunities for
international exposure, we hope it will empower local filmmakers to create
high-quality work for an international audience.”

Dr. Christopher Chia, the
CEO of the MDA, added: “Singapore companies have proven that they have what it
takes to be a key contributor to the factual programming content market. This
initiative will provide international audiences with more quality
Made-by-Singapore HD content.”