BBC Unveils New Factual Commissions

The BBC has revealed its new documentary commissions, which will roll out across BBC One, BBC Two and BBC Three.

Among the highlights of the new slate is Britain vs Coronavirus, a feature-length, state-of-the-nation documentary for BBC One that brings viewers the story of the coronavirus pandemic in Britain. Predator: The Conviction Of Reynhard Sinaga, a new single film for BBC Two directed by Liza Williams, centers on the sexual predator’s trial. Meanwhile, the Hometown docuseries is returning with journalist Amber Haque to BBC Three, where documentaries on drill artist Digga D and Michaella McCollum, who survived one of South America’s toughest prisons, will also premiere.

Clare Sillery, head of commissioning for documentaries at the BBC, said: “We are living in extraordinary times that demonstrate, now more than ever, the power and importance of documentary filmmaking. Our recent BBC Two Hospital Coronavirus Special took viewers right to the frontline of the NHS response at the Royal Free Hospital in London, whilst starting next week Once Upon A Time in Iraq, from acclaimed director James Bluemel, gives unprecedented insight into a conflict that continues to shape our world today.”

Sillery added: “Looking ahead, the BBC plays a vital role in enabling the very best filmmaking talent to tell the stories that matter to them and I’m thrilled that we have Marian Mohamed from the BBC’s New Directors’ scheme and BAFTA-nominated Liza Williams are making new films for us, whilst journalist Amber Haque is covering a new case for Hometown. Meanwhile, major new feature-length films demonstrate our ongoing commitment to films of scale that bring new perspective to timely subjects.”