Finnish Fund Backs Red Harlequin Adaptation

Finnish media fund IPR.VC is financing the development of a television adaptation of Roberto Ricci’s young adult fantasy series The Red Harlequin.

The adaptation is being developed by Pantomimus Media, a new venture founded by Ricci and his agent, Lisa Hryniewicz, in association with exec producer Rick Porras. The Red Harlequin encompasses five books (with five more planned in the next five years), a graphic novel and a range of licensed products.

Timo Argillander, managing partner at IPR.VC, commented, “The Red Harlequin is a unique and compelling IP whose content can easily extend from books and comics to a plethora of formats and adaptations, such as TV, music, video games, film and licensing. We are confident that The Red Harlequin will become an exciting phenomenon.”

“We are thrilled that the team at IPR.VC has joined us in developing The Red Harlequin as a global entertainment franchise,” added Ricci. “IPR’s strategic support will be instrumental to its success as a quintessential 360 transmedia property and we are very excited to be working together to make it happen.”

Previous investments by IPR.VC include the Scandinavian crime drama Bordertown and the animated preschool series Gigglebug.