MIPTV Spotlight: FremantleMedia International

CANNES: A pair of book-based series lead the drama slate that FremantleMedia International brings to this year’s MIPTV: Jamaica Inn and Dicte.

Jamaica Inn (Origin Pictures) drew its inspiration from the classic novel penned by Daphne du Maurier, while Dicte (Miso Film) was adapted from Elsebeth Egholm’s literary works. The company is also presenting Wentworth, a prison drama. “After the huge worldwide success of the first series [of Wentworth], which is now in almost 80 territories, we are very much looking forward to showcasing the upcoming second series from Australia,” says Sarah Doole, the director of global drama at FremantleMedia. “The story continues as viewers are taken back to the Wentworth Correctional Centre and continue to follow the female prisoners as their lives unfold.”

The CNN original series The Sixties spotlights important events that took place during the 1960s. “The series looks at the years between 1959 and 1970 through archival newsreel footage, personal movies and interviews with people who were there at the time, underpinned by expert historical commentary,” says Bob McCourt, the acting CEO of FremantleMedia International. “If the content wasn’t enough, The Sixties also has an amazing production pedigree as it’s exec produced by Emmy Award-winning producers Tom Hanks, Gary Goetzman and Mark Herzog.”

The company believes that Jamaica Inn will also perform well in the Asia Pacific. Another highlight to target that region is Lindsay, a new docuseries for OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network. “With all of the global interest in Lindsay Lohan, Lindsay is set to be compelling viewing,” says Paul Ridley, the company’s senior executive VP of sales and distribution for the Asia Pacific. “The global media are constantly reporting on the star’s antics, and this documentary is the first time that audiences worldwide will get an unflinching look into the life of this very much sought-after celebrity.”