all3media Touts Australian Highlights

LONDON: In the run-up to MIPCOM, all3media international has taken on the rights to several shows from independent producers in Australia, a market in which it has invested almost A$3 million ($2.8 million) over the last three years.

On the heels of the success of Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries, all3media has taken on Love Child, another period drama, this one from Playmaker Media for Nine Network. Set in the late '60s, it features strong female characters dealing with change in this turbulent era. Meanwhile, in the run up to the 100-year anniversary of the start of WWI next year, Anzac Girls focuses on the women who volunteered to nurse the wounded in the Allied Campaign.

On the factual end, there's Prospero Productions' seven-part Life on the Edge, for Nat Geo and Seven, taking a trip around Australia’s coastline with marine biologists, historians and geologists; and The Real Mary Poppins, from Essential Media, with ABC Australia and PBS. Rounding out the Australian highlights is the Kath & Kim library, as well as a new theatrical movie.

“We have invested nearly AUS$3 million into the region in the last three years, as Australian indie producers prove time and again that they create original stand out content," said Maartje Horchner, head of acquisitions. "There is a distinct shift that differentiates it from other English-language productions— different sensitivities, partly built on the fact they produce in a highly competitive, commercial marketplace locally. During my visits to Australia, the commitment, enthusiasm and dedication to the production craft is always apparent and it is a key investment region for us. I’m delighted with the new slate—it’s well worth a good viewing.”