Banijay Kids & Family has acquired UK drama specialists, Kindle Entertainment.
It has also bought Italian production company and animation focused creative hub, Movimenti Production.
Kindle Entertainment was established in 2007. Under the stewardship of MDs Melanie Stokes and Anne Brogan, the company is behind premium YA and Family dramas, including limited series, Little Darlings (Sky), teen mystery, The A List (Netflix) and just launched trilogy of family films, Ivy & Bean (Netflix). The company has picked up International Kids Emmys and BAFTA Children’s Awards. Most recently, the duo received an industry tribute as producers of disruption, innovation and creativity from Pact.
Established in 2004 with bases in Milan, Florence and Rome, Movimenti Production has created and produced animated TV series, feature films and short films, including Topo Gigio (Topo Gigio Srl, Rai) and Tear Along the Dotted Line (Netflix).
Benoît Di Sabatino, CEO, Banijay Kids & Family says: “Kindle Entertainment and Movimenti Production will be complimentary additions to the family, both bringing their own unique expertise, with consistent track records in delivering premium shows. This is a pivotal moment for Banijay Kids & Family, as we continue to grow our footprint and remain a key player in this competitive market. I look forward to working with such passionate and creative producers as Melanie, Anne, Giorgio, Davide and their incredibly talented teams, as we embark on the next phase of our journey. From pre-schoolers to the whole household, we are proud to offer a wide range of live and animated premium shows to broadcasters all around the world.”
Marco Bassetti, CEO, Banijay comments: “Since joining Banijay, Benoît has had huge ambitions for the kids’ portfolio. Gradually building a healthy collective of labels, an impressive slate of content and its own independent distribution engine, the division has gone from strength-to-strength. Adding the award-winning drama capabilities of Kindle Entertainment and the animation might of Movimenti Production will only further broaden the burgeoning group’s capabilities and appeal in this space.”
Melanie Stokes, MD, Kindle Entertainment: “We are so thrilled to be joining Benoit and his team at Banijay. Kindle Entertainment is passionate about creating Premium YA and 4-Quad Drama for a global audience. It’s a hugely exciting time to be in this space, and we can’t think of a better partner to help us realize our ambitions to create ever better, bigger hit shows.”
Led by CEO Benoît Di Sabatino, Banijay Kids & Family is home to Zodiak Kids & Family Distribution, Zodiak Kids & Family France, Zodiak Kids & Family Productions UK, Monello Productions, Tiger Aspect Kids & Family, Movimenti Production and Kindle Entertainment notable credits include Danny and Mick, Lilybuds, Little Princess, Lolirock, Horrid Henry, Max and Maestro, Mister Maker, Marblegen, Mr Bean, Street Football, Mumfie, Ted’s Top Ten, The Secret Life of Boys, Totally Spies! When I Was Your Age, Yellow Yeti, Topo Gigio, Tear Along the Dotted Line, Little Darlings, Hank Zipzer, and Ivy & Bean.
Jon Creamer
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