BBC Worldwide Signs First-Look Pact with Cuba Pictures

LONDON: BBC Worldwide is getting a first look at productions from Cuba Pictures, which is part of the Curtis Brown Group.

BBC Worldwide will provide investment, co-production expertise, access to market research and development initiatives in addition to global marketing reach in return for the first look at new content. Cuba Pictures was set up with the aim to collaborate with Curtis Brown author, directors, screenwriters and actors in order to develop and produce film and TV. For its latest project, the company is working with BBC Worldwide through a co-production deal with BBC America on the seven-part series Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell, based on Susanna Clarke’s novel. (Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell is being distributed by Endemol.)

Martin Rakusen, BBC Worldwide’s commercial director for independent drama, said: “We’re very excited about the partnership with Cuba Pictures and working with the wealth of talent that falls under the Curtis Brown Group. Nick and Dixie have built a dynamic production company with an exceptionally exciting range of projects both in production and development. We’re looking forward to building the future relationship and supporting their shows moving forward.”

Nick Marston, CEO for Cuba Pictures, added: “Our aim is to bring together writers, directors and literary material in unique collaborations to create some first-class television. This partnership with BBC Worldwide will hopefully ensure that our work will get the best global support and we look forward to working together on future upcoming projects.”