Facing the Classroom Lands in Multiple Territories

Vivendi Entertainment’s new political-themed factual series Facing the Classroom is now being developed in seven territories following its launch at MIPTV last month.

Exclusive options have been secured by Warner Bros International Television Production in Germany, Sweden and Finland; Mentorn Media in the U.K.; Screentime NZ (Banijay) in New Zealand; Gil Productions in Israel; and Iprod in Lebanon. In some countries, local versions are already in pre-production. More deals are expected to be revealed in the near future.

In each episode of Facing the Classroom, one candidate running for election is interviewed by 20 schoolchildren. The show debuted in prime time earlier this year on C8 in France. It was also adapted in Belgium for RTBF last year.

Matthieu Porte, Vivendi Entertainment’s executive VP of international and development, remarked: “Facing the Classroom was MIPTV’s surprise hit. Everyone absolutely loved it. It’s a great example of a smart format that makes a much more entertaining and intriguing viewing than any other programs related to politics. The massive ratings in France proved that. And as most countries in the world hold regular elections, the format is very relevant globally and can be adapted nearly everywhere.”