BBC Worldwide has partnered with Europe based film and TV outfit Anton to launch The Drama Investment Partnership: a new £150m pool of funding for investment in premium British drama titles with international appeal.
BBC Worldwide will identify projects for development and investment, and will take on global marketing and distribution of titles financed by The Drama Investment Partnership.
The Drama Investment Partnership will aim to invest in projects with a production value of at least £150m over three years. It structured as an exclusive co-financing relationship with Anton, with both parties providing investment funding.
Anton has previously supported titles including Shaun the Sheep, Legend, Paddington and Tinker, Tailor, Solider, Spy.
DIP backed projects are likely to boast proved writers and big name talent. It is looking for titles with global appeal and high quality/cinematic production qualities, such as The Honourable Woman and forthcoming Top of The Lake II (China Girl) and McMafia (pictured above).
BBC Worldwide has focused increasingly on premium drama. In January it announced a deal with funders Access Entertainment and Lookout Point to create commissioning vehicle Benchmark Television.
The Drama Investment Partnership will be able to greenlight productions at an early stage but will require primary commissioner to be on board. This differentiates it from the Benchmark Capital initiative which can greenlight content without a commissioner. But both initiatives will bring new capital into the premium drama market.
Tim Davie, CEO, BBC Worldwide, said: “With The Drama Investment Partnership, we are actively bringing new funding opportunities to the market, consistent with our history of pioneering financing and partnership deals. We are delighted to welcome Anton as our partner for The Drama Investment Partnership, and are confident that the new funds will unlock greater opportunities for content makers and commissioners to ensure the very best of British drama continues to be made for audiences across the world.”
Sébastien Raybaud, CEO, Anton, said: “In a market flooded with content, it has become critical to stand out. This is why we are backing BBC Worldwide’s strategy to target ambitious high-end drama. With its brand, reach and commitment to high quality content, BBC Worldwide is well positioned to offer talent an attractive home for large budget series.”
DIP is open for business and actively looking for projects.
Staff Reporter
Share this story
