Fremantle Acquires Hell Jumper

Fremantle has acquired the global distribution rights for Hell Jumper, a new feature documentary from Expectation TV (The Chelsea Detective).

Hell Jumper follows 28-year-old Chris Parry from Cornwall, who headed to Ukraine and worked beside other civilian evacuators from all over the world. The title is set to air on BBC Two and iPlayer this summer.

Chris died alongside fellow volunteer Andrew Bagshaw as they tried to help evacuate a woman from an area of heavy bombardment in eastern Ukraine.

Colin Barr, creative director for factual and factual drama at Expectation TV, said: “When I first saw Chris’ footage and spoke to his amazing family, this felt like a film that had to be made. It’s tragic, inspiring and deeply moving. This story of idealistic and courageous young people risking everything on the frontline is a unique lens on a terrible war. We know Chris is thought to have saved more than 400 people and was awarded a medal by the Ukrainian government, but his legacy is truly felt in the love and sense of loss expressed by of those who knew him. We’re very proud that the BBC worked with us to make the film and thrilled that Fremantle will help us take it to a worldwide audience.”

Céire Clark, senior acquisitions manager for international at Fremantle, said: “This is a remarkable tale of resilience, and we’re looking forward to sharing this extraordinary and heart-wrenching story. Hell Jumper not only illuminates the bravery and idealism of youth in times of crisis but also underscores the power of love in the darkest moments. We’re delighted to be working with Expectation TV and look forward to bringing this story to a global audience.”