DISCOP Execs Launch Development Label Ideas for Film

Patrick Zuchowicki and Francoise Lazard, the pair behind DISCOP and DISBOOK, respectively, have unveiled a new movie and TV project development label called Ideas for Film.

At this week’s DISCOP Johannesburg, Zuchowicki and Lazard revealed their plans for the global television miniseries The Day of the Covenant and Diamond Squad, both of which are packaged for fast financing so they can quickly commence production.

The Day of the Covenant tells the true story of the sabotage of the Koeberg Nuclear Power Station outside of Cape Town. The four-part project will be directed by Oliver Schmitz (Shepherds and Butchers, Live Above All). It is being developed in partnership with Emmy-winning producer Dan Jawitz, who said: “Day of the Covenant offers potential co-pro partners a spectacular retro ’80s romp through a far-flung cold war in Africa, with excellent roles for French and German actors, high production values, cheap crews and the opportunity to shoot in the most spectacular city in the Southern Hemisphere.”

Diamond Squad, meanwhile, is a collaboration between Ideas for Film and Michael Esser, a Los Angeles-based scriptwriter and producer.

Zuchowicki noted: “In the context of Germany as DISCOP Johannesburg’s guest country, we are excited to pitch these series, as both projects can benefit from the co-production agreements between Germany and South Africa. Various marks of interest have already been expressed by major German production and distribution companies who are in attendance.”