MIPTV Spotlight: Sierra/Engine Television

CANNES: The acclaimed actor John Malkovich is portraying the lead role of the diabolical pirate Blackbeard in the new drama Crossbones.

NBC gave the show a straight-to-series order for ten episodes. “TV production has gone through a shift in financing methods, as networks are now receptive to allowing a third party to assume a large share of the financial burden for a series in exchange for international rights,” explains Chris Philip, the CEO of Sierra/Engine Television. “These straight-to-series deals mitigate the risk for the network while ensuring artists retain full creative control at the budget level they require. This model ensures that international broadcasters will be delivered a full season.” Sierra/Engine’s Rescue 3 combines a U.S. syndication model with a straight-to-series model. The company’s catalogue also includes Siberia.