Key Benbow, the influential former Controller of BBC preschool channel CBeebies, has died.
Several of her former colleagues have taken to social media to post tributes to Benbow, who is considered among the most important and successful BBC children’s TV executives of recent times.
CBeebies won the BAFTA Channel of the Year award five times and Rts Channel of the Year during her tenure and commissioned numerous shows that remain on air today, including the annual Christmas live show.
“Kay was a legendary leader of CBeebies and affectionately known as the Queen of Beebies by some of those still within BBC Children’s, several years after her departure,” wrote Stuart Rowson, a former BBC Children’s colleague who now runs Lucky Socks Media.
A BBC spokesperson said: “Everyone in the BBC Children’s & Education department is incredibly sad to hear the news that Kay Benbow has passed away. Our most...
Several of her former colleagues have taken to social media to post tributes to Benbow, who is considered among the most important and successful BBC children’s TV executives of recent times.
CBeebies won the BAFTA Channel of the Year award five times and Rts Channel of the Year during her tenure and commissioned numerous shows that remain on air today, including the annual Christmas live show.
“Kay was a legendary leader of CBeebies and affectionately known as the Queen of Beebies by some of those still within BBC Children’s, several years after her departure,” wrote Stuart Rowson, a former BBC Children’s colleague who now runs Lucky Socks Media.
A BBC spokesperson said: “Everyone in the BBC Children’s & Education department is incredibly sad to hear the news that Kay Benbow has passed away. Our most...
- 3/26/2024
- by Jesse Whittock
- Deadline Film + TV
With the future of Australian TV drama under the microscope, there was always going to be added interest in the ABC’s 2022 slate.
The public broadcaster will deliver in the genre in its 90th year, officially announcing at today’s upfronts new series Significant Others and Savage River.
They join titles Mystery Road: Origin, Troppo, and Barons in a drama line-up that is noticeably larger than what has so far been announced by the commercial free-to-air platforms.
ABC director of entertainment and specialist Michael Carrington told If the broadcaster was pleased to be able to meet demand in the space.
“It’s something our audiences want and I’m thrilled we’re able to provide it,” he said.
“Drama is a really expensive genre. It takes a lot of effort, resources, craft skills, etc. to build a drama series, as well as a lot of time.
“Obviously we are investing...
The public broadcaster will deliver in the genre in its 90th year, officially announcing at today’s upfronts new series Significant Others and Savage River.
They join titles Mystery Road: Origin, Troppo, and Barons in a drama line-up that is noticeably larger than what has so far been announced by the commercial free-to-air platforms.
ABC director of entertainment and specialist Michael Carrington told If the broadcaster was pleased to be able to meet demand in the space.
“It’s something our audiences want and I’m thrilled we’re able to provide it,” he said.
“Drama is a really expensive genre. It takes a lot of effort, resources, craft skills, etc. to build a drama series, as well as a lot of time.
“Obviously we are investing...
- 11/25/2021
- by Sean Slatter
- IF.com.au
Documentary filmmaker, editor, and cinematographer Daniel King will start an eight-month placement with the ABC and Northern Pictures this month after being announced as the inaugural recipient of the Indigenous Documentary Placement.
Co-presented by the ABC, Northern Pictures, and the Australian International Documentary Conference (Aidc), the initiative is designed to fast-track the careers of Indigenous non-fiction screen practitioners.
King will work with Northern Pictures’ factual team from May to September on the development of their slate, provide production support for current and upcoming projects and assist the team in identifying and developing diverse on and off screen talent.
From September through to next January, he will work with the ABC Factual and Culture team on their upcoming slate for 2022, with a focus on learning the development, commissioning and editorial production process.
King said he was excited to develop his skills.
“I’m honoured and grateful to be given this opportunity...
Co-presented by the ABC, Northern Pictures, and the Australian International Documentary Conference (Aidc), the initiative is designed to fast-track the careers of Indigenous non-fiction screen practitioners.
King will work with Northern Pictures’ factual team from May to September on the development of their slate, provide production support for current and upcoming projects and assist the team in identifying and developing diverse on and off screen talent.
From September through to next January, he will work with the ABC Factual and Culture team on their upcoming slate for 2022, with a focus on learning the development, commissioning and editorial production process.
King said he was excited to develop his skills.
“I’m honoured and grateful to be given this opportunity...
- 5/27/2021
- by Sean Slatter
- IF.com.au
Through a new partnership with Bus Stop Films, the ABC will fund two 12-month placements for people with disability.
Dubbed the Pathways Strategy, participants will work with the ABC’s entertainment and specialist team, and with two production partners.
Participating production companies will also receive inclusive filmmaking training and support from Bus Stop Films.
ABC director entertainment and specialist Michael Carrington said: “We are delighted to work with Bus Stop Films in helping Australian production companies open their doors wider, by building career opportunities, skills and experience for people with a disability.
“In line with the ABC’s new diversity and inclusion commissioning guidelines, the Pathways Strategy will enable people with a disability to share their creativity and talent with our audience, bringing greater diversity and inclusion and outstanding content to Australian screens.”
Bus Stop Films CEO Tracey Corbin-Matchet said: “The Pathways Strategy is about clearing away the barriers people...
Dubbed the Pathways Strategy, participants will work with the ABC’s entertainment and specialist team, and with two production partners.
Participating production companies will also receive inclusive filmmaking training and support from Bus Stop Films.
ABC director entertainment and specialist Michael Carrington said: “We are delighted to work with Bus Stop Films in helping Australian production companies open their doors wider, by building career opportunities, skills and experience for people with a disability.
“In line with the ABC’s new diversity and inclusion commissioning guidelines, the Pathways Strategy will enable people with a disability to share their creativity and talent with our audience, bringing greater diversity and inclusion and outstanding content to Australian screens.”
Bus Stop Films CEO Tracey Corbin-Matchet said: “The Pathways Strategy is about clearing away the barriers people...
- 2/17/2021
- by Staff Writer
- IF.com.au
This month’s Australian International Documentary Conference (Aidc) is set to include an emphasis on Indigenous stories, with the announcement of targeted initiatives and sessions.
Aidc 2021 will feature the return of the Indigenous Creators Program, which comprises four specially crafted conference sessions and marketplace activities designed by and for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander practitioners and international First Nations people.
The year’s event also incorporates the Indigenous Documentary Placement, a new initiative designed to provide one mid-career Indigenous practitioner with an opportunity to undertake an extended placement with the ABC.
Applications for the placement, which is being co-presented by ABC, Northern Pictures and Aidc are open until Wednesday, March 10 (apply here).
The conference will include an information session about the placement with ABC head of Indigenous Kelrick Martin and Northern Pictures head of factual Karina Holden.
ABC director entertainment and specialist Michael Carrington hopes the initiative will help give...
Aidc 2021 will feature the return of the Indigenous Creators Program, which comprises four specially crafted conference sessions and marketplace activities designed by and for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander practitioners and international First Nations people.
The year’s event also incorporates the Indigenous Documentary Placement, a new initiative designed to provide one mid-career Indigenous practitioner with an opportunity to undertake an extended placement with the ABC.
Applications for the placement, which is being co-presented by ABC, Northern Pictures and Aidc are open until Wednesday, March 10 (apply here).
The conference will include an information session about the placement with ABC head of Indigenous Kelrick Martin and Northern Pictures head of factual Karina Holden.
ABC director entertainment and specialist Michael Carrington hopes the initiative will help give...
- 2/15/2021
- by Sean Slatter
- IF.com.au
The ABC today launched diversity and inclusion commissioning guidelines for screen content, to better reflect and represent more diverse faces, voices, cultures and stories. Michael Carrington, ABC director entertainment and specialist, explains why.
The global discussion about diversity and inclusion has called out some glaring anachronisms on screen, more suited to the era of Downton Abbey than the 21st century. From #OscarsSoWhite to overlooking the outstanding work of female creatives, there’s much work to be done.
I’m not a huge fan of reality TV but Australian screens could do with a dose of real life. This is not about tallying up the number of faces that are white, black, brown or in between. It’s about recognising that there’s more diversity on an average suburban street than on our screens. And why that’s a problem.
Being exposed to different people and cultures stimulates curiosity, creativity and innovation.
The global discussion about diversity and inclusion has called out some glaring anachronisms on screen, more suited to the era of Downton Abbey than the 21st century. From #OscarsSoWhite to overlooking the outstanding work of female creatives, there’s much work to be done.
I’m not a huge fan of reality TV but Australian screens could do with a dose of real life. This is not about tallying up the number of faces that are white, black, brown or in between. It’s about recognising that there’s more diversity on an average suburban street than on our screens. And why that’s a problem.
Being exposed to different people and cultures stimulates curiosity, creativity and innovation.
- 2/15/2021
- by Michael Carrington
- IF.com.au
The ABC has outlined a new strategy to ensure diversity and inclusion across its programming, putting in place prescribed commissioning guidelines.
The guidelines focus on five key areas – gender representation, Indigenous Australians, culturally and linguistically diverse (Cald), living with a disability, and Lgbtqi+ – and cover on-screen, off-screen, and career progression.
Speaking to If last week, ABC director entertainment and specialist Michael Carrington said audiences were interested in the “diversity of who we are”.
“It’s a mood you can feel everywhere,” he said.
“Bringing diverse stories to life is something we are focusing on, in terms of developing new shows.
“We had a lot of success with Total Control, which really resonated with audiences -both on linear television, as well as on our digital platform ABC iview.”
Under the guidelines, producers will need to demonstrate how their content reflects authentic diversity and inclusion in its subject matter or cast, with...
The guidelines focus on five key areas – gender representation, Indigenous Australians, culturally and linguistically diverse (Cald), living with a disability, and Lgbtqi+ – and cover on-screen, off-screen, and career progression.
Speaking to If last week, ABC director entertainment and specialist Michael Carrington said audiences were interested in the “diversity of who we are”.
“It’s a mood you can feel everywhere,” he said.
“Bringing diverse stories to life is something we are focusing on, in terms of developing new shows.
“We had a lot of success with Total Control, which really resonated with audiences -both on linear television, as well as on our digital platform ABC iview.”
Under the guidelines, producers will need to demonstrate how their content reflects authentic diversity and inclusion in its subject matter or cast, with...
- 2/15/2021
- by Sean Slatter
- IF.com.au
Drama and children’s programming remain the focus for a new look ABC in 2021 as the broadcaster aims for greater fluidity between its platforms, according to director of entertainment and specialist Michael Carrington.
Like many of its neighbours in the free-to-air space, the ABC has altered its model in the past 12 months to better navigate a post-pandemic landscape.
This has included the introduction of ABC TV Plus as a replacement for ABC Comedy, as well as the launch of the Fresh Start Fund, $5 million of development money that aims to assist the independent production through Covid.
There have also been consolidation measures, such as $5 million in cuts to the commissioning of independent production, a move likely to impact the factual slate in the short-term.
Speaking about the year ahead, Carrington tells If the success of shows such as political drama Total Control, as well as children’s programs Bluey and...
Like many of its neighbours in the free-to-air space, the ABC has altered its model in the past 12 months to better navigate a post-pandemic landscape.
This has included the introduction of ABC TV Plus as a replacement for ABC Comedy, as well as the launch of the Fresh Start Fund, $5 million of development money that aims to assist the independent production through Covid.
There have also been consolidation measures, such as $5 million in cuts to the commissioning of independent production, a move likely to impact the factual slate in the short-term.
Speaking about the year ahead, Carrington tells If the success of shows such as political drama Total Control, as well as children’s programs Bluey and...
- 2/11/2021
- by Sean Slatter
- IF.com.au
So hefty is the ABC’s slate in 2021, director entertainment and specialist Michael Carrington is confident audiences won’t even realise that many of the broadcaster’s productions faced shutdowns and delays during the pandemic.
As announced at the ABC’s upfronts this afternoon, the line-up for the new year includes new dramas Fires and The Newsreader, new comedies Fisk and Preppers, as well as the return of Total Control, Frayed, Jack Irish, Harrow and Superwog.
2021 will also see the premiere of Jungle Entertainment’s mental health drama Wakefield, with all eps planned to drop on ABC iview.
Also on the line-up is Closer Productions’ chef comedy Aftertaste, starring Erik Thomson, Natalie Abbott and Rachel Griffiths, and feature anthology Here Out West, penned by a group of emerging writers from Western Sydney.
“Seven or eight months ago we were in full production and overnight we stopped production all around Australia,...
As announced at the ABC’s upfronts this afternoon, the line-up for the new year includes new dramas Fires and The Newsreader, new comedies Fisk and Preppers, as well as the return of Total Control, Frayed, Jack Irish, Harrow and Superwog.
2021 will also see the premiere of Jungle Entertainment’s mental health drama Wakefield, with all eps planned to drop on ABC iview.
Also on the line-up is Closer Productions’ chef comedy Aftertaste, starring Erik Thomson, Natalie Abbott and Rachel Griffiths, and feature anthology Here Out West, penned by a group of emerging writers from Western Sydney.
“Seven or eight months ago we were in full production and overnight we stopped production all around Australia,...
- 11/25/2020
- by Jackie Keast
- IF.com.au
Jennifer Collins.
Jennifer Collins is set to return to the ABC as its inaugural head of factual and culture, where she will lead the development and production of content across arts, religion, science, education, health, history and social affairs.
The new factual and culture team, an arm of the ABC’s entertainment and specialist, was announced in June as part of ABC’s five year plan.
It brings together all factual content makers into a single unit across TV, radio and digital, including including Radio National, podcast creation hub Audio Studios and flagship programs such as Compass, and Catalyst.
ABC director of entertainment and specialist Michael Carrington said: “Jen is well known and respected by ABC people and partners alike and her unique skills across multiple platforms will help drive our transition towards digital content and services.
“Australians love and trust the ABC’s Factual content, from our feature-length arts programs to long-form audio documentaries.
Jennifer Collins is set to return to the ABC as its inaugural head of factual and culture, where she will lead the development and production of content across arts, religion, science, education, health, history and social affairs.
The new factual and culture team, an arm of the ABC’s entertainment and specialist, was announced in June as part of ABC’s five year plan.
It brings together all factual content makers into a single unit across TV, radio and digital, including including Radio National, podcast creation hub Audio Studios and flagship programs such as Compass, and Catalyst.
ABC director of entertainment and specialist Michael Carrington said: “Jen is well known and respected by ABC people and partners alike and her unique skills across multiple platforms will help drive our transition towards digital content and services.
“Australians love and trust the ABC’s Factual content, from our feature-length arts programs to long-form audio documentaries.
- 10/1/2020
- by jkeast
- IF.com.au
Charlotte Nicdao and Gemma Bird Matheson in ‘Content’ (Photo credit: ABC/Mia Forrest).
Ludo Studio’s vertical comedy Content and Endemol Shine Australia’s documentary Old People’s Home for 4 Year Olds, both ABC commissions, will fly the flag for Australia at this year’s International Emmy Awards.
Produced by Meg O’Connell and written by Anna Barnes, the comedy starring Charlotte Nicdao as Lucy, an extrovert chasing Internet fame and Gemma Bird Matheson as her best friend Daisy, is nominated for Short-Form Series.
“I love this show so much and I’m so proud of the team,” Ludo Studio’s Daley Pearson said on social media. “This is Ludo’s 4th Emmy [nomination] and I’m so happy for everyone at the studio.”
In April, the Brisbane-based studio’s Bluey won the International Emmy Kids Award for best preschool program, following wins for interactive comedy #7DaysLater in 2015 and animated series Doodles in 2016.
The Esa documentary,...
Ludo Studio’s vertical comedy Content and Endemol Shine Australia’s documentary Old People’s Home for 4 Year Olds, both ABC commissions, will fly the flag for Australia at this year’s International Emmy Awards.
Produced by Meg O’Connell and written by Anna Barnes, the comedy starring Charlotte Nicdao as Lucy, an extrovert chasing Internet fame and Gemma Bird Matheson as her best friend Daisy, is nominated for Short-Form Series.
“I love this show so much and I’m so proud of the team,” Ludo Studio’s Daley Pearson said on social media. “This is Ludo’s 4th Emmy [nomination] and I’m so happy for everyone at the studio.”
In April, the Brisbane-based studio’s Bluey won the International Emmy Kids Award for best preschool program, following wins for interactive comedy #7DaysLater in 2015 and animated series Doodles in 2016.
The Esa documentary,...
- 9/24/2020
- by The IF Team
- IF.com.au
Todd Abbott.
Installed as ABC head of comedy in July, Todd Abbott will start evaluating the development materials of the comedy projects that received support under the $5 million Fresh Start Fund this week – and next week he hopes to greenlight development on several projects that he’s already been evaluating.
That’s the good news for Australian producers and creators – tempered by the fact that the broadcaster’s comedy slate for 2021 is fully committed. So the projects that will advance from now on will premiere in 2022.
Given the ABC’s budget constraints, Abbott tells If: “Everyone has had to tighten their belts. My task is to maintain the comedy department’s output and to keep the Wednesday comedy night thriving – and then I’ll try to work out how to do hostile takeovers of the other nights. None of the projects I am looking at now is expected to be...
Installed as ABC head of comedy in July, Todd Abbott will start evaluating the development materials of the comedy projects that received support under the $5 million Fresh Start Fund this week – and next week he hopes to greenlight development on several projects that he’s already been evaluating.
That’s the good news for Australian producers and creators – tempered by the fact that the broadcaster’s comedy slate for 2021 is fully committed. So the projects that will advance from now on will premiere in 2022.
Given the ABC’s budget constraints, Abbott tells If: “Everyone has had to tighten their belts. My task is to maintain the comedy department’s output and to keep the Wednesday comedy night thriving – and then I’ll try to work out how to do hostile takeovers of the other nights. None of the projects I am looking at now is expected to be...
- 9/15/2020
- by The IF Team
- IF.com.au
Roberta Allan.
The ABC has named Roberta Allan as the new head of content curation and distribution in the entertainment and specialist division, managing the delivery of Australian content across multiple channels and platforms.
The seasoned programmer comes from BBC Studios, where she is head of advertising and programming for factual and kids content in Australia and New Zealand.
In that role she oversees BBC Earth, CBeebies and BBC Brit channels and, in an acting capacity, the channels’ brand partnerships and commercial advertising.
Starting at the ABC in November, she will be responsible for the distribution of all ABC non-news content and acquisitions on platforms including ABC TV, ABC iview, ABC Listen and on social media.
Since Rebecca Heap departed as head of distribution, entertainment and specialist, in 2018 a number of people have been acting in the role.
Michael Carrington, director entertainment and specialist, said Roberta’s expertise will help...
The ABC has named Roberta Allan as the new head of content curation and distribution in the entertainment and specialist division, managing the delivery of Australian content across multiple channels and platforms.
The seasoned programmer comes from BBC Studios, where she is head of advertising and programming for factual and kids content in Australia and New Zealand.
In that role she oversees BBC Earth, CBeebies and BBC Brit channels and, in an acting capacity, the channels’ brand partnerships and commercial advertising.
Starting at the ABC in November, she will be responsible for the distribution of all ABC non-news content and acquisitions on platforms including ABC TV, ABC iview, ABC Listen and on social media.
Since Rebecca Heap departed as head of distribution, entertainment and specialist, in 2018 a number of people have been acting in the role.
Michael Carrington, director entertainment and specialist, said Roberta’s expertise will help...
- 8/18/2020
- by The IF Team
- IF.com.au
Michael Carrington.
Some 44 children’s content ideas and productions, 30 comedies, 15 dramas and 14 documentaries are among the beneficiaries of the ABC’s Fresh Start Fund.
The ABC launched the $5 million development fund in April to support Australian producers, creatives and musicians amid the shutdown of the production industry.
The fund, which received about 4,000 applications, is now fully committed, supporting more than 200 Australian projects and new content ideas. That includes almost 60 music projects and more than 30 specialist projects spanning podcasts, arts, science and religion and ethics.
The diverse slate includes adult animation series, digital short-form sketch comedies, family dramas, crime series, vertical comedy series, rom-coms and science fiction-fantasy.
Among the subjects are Indigenous musicians, autism, race, disability, eco-terrorism, ghost hunters, chess clubs, the coronavirus, the Australian wine industry, prison, pole dancing and the challenges faced by girls growing up in a dangerous world.
The fund will also nurture new entertainment series ranging from quiz shows to comedies.
Some 44 children’s content ideas and productions, 30 comedies, 15 dramas and 14 documentaries are among the beneficiaries of the ABC’s Fresh Start Fund.
The ABC launched the $5 million development fund in April to support Australian producers, creatives and musicians amid the shutdown of the production industry.
The fund, which received about 4,000 applications, is now fully committed, supporting more than 200 Australian projects and new content ideas. That includes almost 60 music projects and more than 30 specialist projects spanning podcasts, arts, science and religion and ethics.
The diverse slate includes adult animation series, digital short-form sketch comedies, family dramas, crime series, vertical comedy series, rom-coms and science fiction-fantasy.
Among the subjects are Indigenous musicians, autism, race, disability, eco-terrorism, ghost hunters, chess clubs, the coronavirus, the Australian wine industry, prison, pole dancing and the challenges faced by girls growing up in a dangerous world.
The fund will also nurture new entertainment series ranging from quiz shows to comedies.
- 7/12/2020
- by The IF Team
- IF.com.au
Marshall Heald, Adrian Swift, Tanya Denning Orman, Dan Monaghan and Michael Carrington.
The future of the TV landscape remains difficult to predict, but commercial networks expect to feel the impact of coronavirus on commissioning budgets well into 2021, and many broadcasters are concerned about scheduling into next year and extra costs associated with restarting production.
These are some of the insights from a panel of commissioners speaking on the most recent session of Running Free Live, a webinar hosted by Denise Eriksen and presented by Acmi, Film Victoria and Media Mentors Australia.
Nine Network head of production and development Adrian Swift said revenues were “fundamentally” down at all three commercial networks.
“The reality is it’s completely screwed us for this financial year, and probably most of next financial year,” Swift said.
“That changes what you can commission. Our commissioning budgets have been completely revised as a result of what’s happened.
The future of the TV landscape remains difficult to predict, but commercial networks expect to feel the impact of coronavirus on commissioning budgets well into 2021, and many broadcasters are concerned about scheduling into next year and extra costs associated with restarting production.
These are some of the insights from a panel of commissioners speaking on the most recent session of Running Free Live, a webinar hosted by Denise Eriksen and presented by Acmi, Film Victoria and Media Mentors Australia.
Nine Network head of production and development Adrian Swift said revenues were “fundamentally” down at all three commercial networks.
“The reality is it’s completely screwed us for this financial year, and probably most of next financial year,” Swift said.
“That changes what you can commission. Our commissioning budgets have been completely revised as a result of what’s happened.
- 7/12/2020
- by jkeast
- IF.com.au
Josie Mason-Campbell.
Josie Mason-Campbell is departing the ABC after three years as head of entertainment and factual amid a management restructure of the content divisions.
Responsibility for entertainment and factual, the genres which are bearing the brunt of the $5 million a year reduction in local commissioning, is being split as part of the measures announced today by ABC MD David Anderson.
The specialist division is being renamed factual and education headed by Aidan Laverty, currently head of specialist.
The drama, comedy and Indigenous unit headed by Sally Riley becomes drama, entertainment and Indigenous, uniting the comedy and entertainment teams.
Michael Carrington, director entertainment and specialist, told If: “Josie has led our entertainment and factual team to great acclaim across award-winning and outstanding programs.
“In recent months, she has also been acting head of distribution, guiding our programming and scheduling across multiple channels to bring high-quality content to audiences when and how they want it.
Josie Mason-Campbell is departing the ABC after three years as head of entertainment and factual amid a management restructure of the content divisions.
Responsibility for entertainment and factual, the genres which are bearing the brunt of the $5 million a year reduction in local commissioning, is being split as part of the measures announced today by ABC MD David Anderson.
The specialist division is being renamed factual and education headed by Aidan Laverty, currently head of specialist.
The drama, comedy and Indigenous unit headed by Sally Riley becomes drama, entertainment and Indigenous, uniting the comedy and entertainment teams.
Michael Carrington, director entertainment and specialist, told If: “Josie has led our entertainment and factual team to great acclaim across award-winning and outstanding programs.
“In recent months, she has also been acting head of distribution, guiding our programming and scheduling across multiple channels to bring high-quality content to audiences when and how they want it.
- 6/24/2020
- by The IF Team
- IF.com.au
David Anderson.
The ABC will cut the commissioning of independent production by about $5 million a year from July and rebrand the ABC Comedy channel to encompass genres such as arts, science, education and religion.
The brunt of the drop in local spending will fall on the factual slate and to a lesser extent entertainment as the broadcaster prioritises investment in drama and children’s programming.
In further blows to producers, the commissioning of first-run content will be limited to 42 weeks a year instead of 48 weeks, and the entertainment and specialist division headed by Michael Carrington will undergo a reduction in the executive team and operational roles.
MD David Anderson announced these moves today as he unveiled the ABC’s five-year strategy plan for 2020-2025.
He confirmed there will be as many as 250 redundancies due to the government-imposed $41 million annual cut to its operating budget.
“The proposals announced today ensure the...
The ABC will cut the commissioning of independent production by about $5 million a year from July and rebrand the ABC Comedy channel to encompass genres such as arts, science, education and religion.
The brunt of the drop in local spending will fall on the factual slate and to a lesser extent entertainment as the broadcaster prioritises investment in drama and children’s programming.
In further blows to producers, the commissioning of first-run content will be limited to 42 weeks a year instead of 48 weeks, and the entertainment and specialist division headed by Michael Carrington will undergo a reduction in the executive team and operational roles.
MD David Anderson announced these moves today as he unveiled the ABC’s five-year strategy plan for 2020-2025.
He confirmed there will be as many as 250 redundancies due to the government-imposed $41 million annual cut to its operating budget.
“The proposals announced today ensure the...
- 6/24/2020
- by The IF Team
- IF.com.au
The International Academy of Television Arts & Sciences is sticking with a November date for its 48th International Emmy Awards, the organization announced Tuesday. But in one change due to the Covid-19 pandemic, semifinal judging will now take place online.
Nominations will be announced in late September, while the awards gala is currently scheduled to take place on November 23. The International Academy said it “is exploring and working on various configurations for its November gala celebrations with an in-person component, should circumstances permit.”
The International Emmy judging panels are usually hosted by members at in-person events throughout the world. Normally, hosts recommend and invite jurors to participate in these closed-door panels, which determine category nominees. Now, all online semi-final judging will be administered by the Frame.io video platform.
“We’re proud to say that the International Emmy Awards competition is on course for its November celebrations thanks, more than ever,...
Nominations will be announced in late September, while the awards gala is currently scheduled to take place on November 23. The International Academy said it “is exploring and working on various configurations for its November gala celebrations with an in-person component, should circumstances permit.”
The International Emmy judging panels are usually hosted by members at in-person events throughout the world. Normally, hosts recommend and invite jurors to participate in these closed-door panels, which determine category nominees. Now, all online semi-final judging will be administered by the Frame.io video platform.
“We’re proud to say that the International Emmy Awards competition is on course for its November celebrations thanks, more than ever,...
- 6/23/2020
- by Michael Schneider
- Variety Film + TV
David Anderson.
The Covid-19 pandemic has disrupted 70 productions which the ABC has commissioned from a total of 50 independent producers, according to MD David Anderson.
“I am worried about the creative sector in this crisis and what will happen on the other side,” Anderson said today. “It’s important to who we are in this country.”
In conversation with Screen Producers Australia CEO Matt Deaner, Anderson identified his other major concern as filling the ABC networks’ program schedules later this year and into 2021.
“We don’t want to rely on international acquisitions to either fill the schedule or make up the inventory sitting on our Svod service,” he said.
It’s clear the broadcaster is looking to partially make up the delivery shortfall with local programming as Anderson said he would announce deals later this week to re-license Australian content.
Last week ABC director of entertainment and specialist Michael Carrington unveiled...
The Covid-19 pandemic has disrupted 70 productions which the ABC has commissioned from a total of 50 independent producers, according to MD David Anderson.
“I am worried about the creative sector in this crisis and what will happen on the other side,” Anderson said today. “It’s important to who we are in this country.”
In conversation with Screen Producers Australia CEO Matt Deaner, Anderson identified his other major concern as filling the ABC networks’ program schedules later this year and into 2021.
“We don’t want to rely on international acquisitions to either fill the schedule or make up the inventory sitting on our Svod service,” he said.
It’s clear the broadcaster is looking to partially make up the delivery shortfall with local programming as Anderson said he would announce deals later this week to re-license Australian content.
Last week ABC director of entertainment and specialist Michael Carrington unveiled...
- 4/27/2020
- by The IF Team
- IF.com.au
In response to the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the independent production sector, the ABC has launched a $5 million development fund.
Called the Fresh Start Fund, it will be focused on developing original new content for broadcast channels and iview, spanning multiple genres, including drama, comedy, children’s, factual, music and the arts.
ABC director of entertainment and specialist Michael Carrington said: “As Australia’s biggest backer of local content, the ABC will provide whatever help possible within our means to shore up the viability of independent producers, who are struggling during this incredibly disruptive time.
“The Fresh Start Fund will ramp up the development of original and outstanding Australian content to keep our production sector afloat during the Covid-19 restrictions. In times like this we all need to pull together and the ABC remains open for business in supporting Australian talent and stories.”
The impact of Covid-19 on...
Called the Fresh Start Fund, it will be focused on developing original new content for broadcast channels and iview, spanning multiple genres, including drama, comedy, children’s, factual, music and the arts.
ABC director of entertainment and specialist Michael Carrington said: “As Australia’s biggest backer of local content, the ABC will provide whatever help possible within our means to shore up the viability of independent producers, who are struggling during this incredibly disruptive time.
“The Fresh Start Fund will ramp up the development of original and outstanding Australian content to keep our production sector afloat during the Covid-19 restrictions. In times like this we all need to pull together and the ABC remains open for business in supporting Australian talent and stories.”
The impact of Covid-19 on...
- 4/23/2020
- by jkeast
- IF.com.au
Michael Carrington.
The ABC intends to ramp up digital-first content as well as reaching new audiences, including those who rarely if ever watch broadcast television.
“We look for content that works across multiple platforms to appeal to a multitude of people, from traditional broadcast audiences to viewers who have never seen a TV schedule,” Michael Carrington, ABC director of entertainment and specialist, tells If.
“Great content is great content, no matter how people watch it. Programs like Total Control and Killing Eve have attracted younger audiences on iview in addition to strong results on linear. So we are not just talking about increasing the volume of digital-first content but how we can better curate content between our platforms.
“Saying that, we need to meet the growing expectation of audiences for high-quality content on demand. That will mean a greater focus on enhancing our content and technology for digital audiences, from...
The ABC intends to ramp up digital-first content as well as reaching new audiences, including those who rarely if ever watch broadcast television.
“We look for content that works across multiple platforms to appeal to a multitude of people, from traditional broadcast audiences to viewers who have never seen a TV schedule,” Michael Carrington, ABC director of entertainment and specialist, tells If.
“Great content is great content, no matter how people watch it. Programs like Total Control and Killing Eve have attracted younger audiences on iview in addition to strong results on linear. So we are not just talking about increasing the volume of digital-first content but how we can better curate content between our platforms.
“Saying that, we need to meet the growing expectation of audiences for high-quality content on demand. That will mean a greater focus on enhancing our content and technology for digital audiences, from...
- 1/6/2020
- by The IF Team
- IF.com.au
Rick Kalowski.
The ABC’s highly respected head of comedy Rick Kalowski today announced his resignation after more than six years in the post.
After commissioning and overseeing the production of 80 titles, spanning pilots, series, digital content and podcasts, the executive tells If he is exhausted and needs a break.
He will stay in place until February to give the ABC ample time to recruit a successor and will pursue new career opportunities in the Australian and global screen industry. He’s having discussions about his next move but nothing is locked in.
Arguably he will step down after one of the ABC’s most distinctive and successful years in comedy, with hits such as Frayed, the fourth season of Utopia, the second of Squinters and the finales of Get Krack!n and The Letdown.
Among other shows produced under his watch, including several commissioned by his predecessor Debbie Lee, were Rosehaven,...
The ABC’s highly respected head of comedy Rick Kalowski today announced his resignation after more than six years in the post.
After commissioning and overseeing the production of 80 titles, spanning pilots, series, digital content and podcasts, the executive tells If he is exhausted and needs a break.
He will stay in place until February to give the ABC ample time to recruit a successor and will pursue new career opportunities in the Australian and global screen industry. He’s having discussions about his next move but nothing is locked in.
Arguably he will step down after one of the ABC’s most distinctive and successful years in comedy, with hits such as Frayed, the fourth season of Utopia, the second of Squinters and the finales of Get Krack!n and The Letdown.
Among other shows produced under his watch, including several commissioned by his predecessor Debbie Lee, were Rosehaven,...
- 12/11/2019
- by The IF Team
- IF.com.au
‘Stateless.’
The ABC’s 2020 programming slate unveiled today is packed with new documentaries and factual series – but there is a distinct air of déjà vu in the categories of drama and comedy.
No new commissions were announced in either genre, but that does not necessarily mean there will be fewer local dramas or comedies on screen next year, despite budget cutbacks.
Referring to the $84 million funding reduction over three years on top of cuts of $50 million a year since 2014, Michael Carrington, ABC director, entertainment and specialist, tells If: “To date, ABC management has found ongoing savings that will total about $17 million a year from next year.
“We’ve looked carefully at non-content related initiatives such as renegotiating third-party contracts. Management will also undertake reviews of our property portfolio and our acquisitions expenditure to assess where other savings may be made.
“It’s good progress but more needs to be done to meet our savings target.
The ABC’s 2020 programming slate unveiled today is packed with new documentaries and factual series – but there is a distinct air of déjà vu in the categories of drama and comedy.
No new commissions were announced in either genre, but that does not necessarily mean there will be fewer local dramas or comedies on screen next year, despite budget cutbacks.
Referring to the $84 million funding reduction over three years on top of cuts of $50 million a year since 2014, Michael Carrington, ABC director, entertainment and specialist, tells If: “To date, ABC management has found ongoing savings that will total about $17 million a year from next year.
“We’ve looked carefully at non-content related initiatives such as renegotiating third-party contracts. Management will also undertake reviews of our property portfolio and our acquisitions expenditure to assess where other savings may be made.
“It’s good progress but more needs to be done to meet our savings target.
- 11/7/2019
- by The IF Team
- IF.com.au
Aidan Laverty.
The ABC has promoted Aidan Laverty, former executive producer of Catalyst, to head of specialist, overseeing all arts, science, health and technology, religion and ethics, education and society and culture content.
Richard Buckham has been acting head of specialist since Judith Whelan was upped to director of ABC regional and radio. Buckham will continue in the role of manager, art.
Laverty joined the broadcaster in 2017 to relaunch the flagship science program. Last year he was appointed manager of the ABC’s new science genre, where he was involved in the creation of such shows as Gut Revolution, Feeding Australia, The Great Australian Bee Keeping Challenge, Staying Younger for Longer and this year’s Stargazing: Moon and Beyond, marking the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing.
In other moves, Jonathan Webb has been appointed acting manager, science, in addition to his role as science editor, while the ABC looks to fill the manager,...
The ABC has promoted Aidan Laverty, former executive producer of Catalyst, to head of specialist, overseeing all arts, science, health and technology, religion and ethics, education and society and culture content.
Richard Buckham has been acting head of specialist since Judith Whelan was upped to director of ABC regional and radio. Buckham will continue in the role of manager, art.
Laverty joined the broadcaster in 2017 to relaunch the flagship science program. Last year he was appointed manager of the ABC’s new science genre, where he was involved in the creation of such shows as Gut Revolution, Feeding Australia, The Great Australian Bee Keeping Challenge, Staying Younger for Longer and this year’s Stargazing: Moon and Beyond, marking the 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing.
In other moves, Jonathan Webb has been appointed acting manager, science, in addition to his role as science editor, while the ABC looks to fill the manager,...
- 10/9/2019
- by The IF Team
- IF.com.au
‘You Can’t Ask That’.
Two ABC series, You Can’t Ask That and What It’s Like, are among 21 shows from around the world nominated for Mipcom Diversify TV Excellence Awards.
This is the third edition of the awards, to be presented October 14 in Cannes, which are designed to honour “inclusive content that impacts and inspires audiences around the globe”.
Factual series You Can’t Ask That, which sees viewers pose questions to misunderstood and marginalised groups, is a finalist in the Representation of Lgbtq+ Non-Scripted category. It is an original format that ABC Commercial has sold to 10 countries, including Israel, France, Spain, English and French speaking Canada, the Netherlands, Norway and Italy, putting it among the most successful formats for the broadcaster.
The program is also a finalist for Mipcom’s best Entertainment Format of the Year at the Television Business International – Content Innovation Awards.
Children’s series...
Two ABC series, You Can’t Ask That and What It’s Like, are among 21 shows from around the world nominated for Mipcom Diversify TV Excellence Awards.
This is the third edition of the awards, to be presented October 14 in Cannes, which are designed to honour “inclusive content that impacts and inspires audiences around the globe”.
Factual series You Can’t Ask That, which sees viewers pose questions to misunderstood and marginalised groups, is a finalist in the Representation of Lgbtq+ Non-Scripted category. It is an original format that ABC Commercial has sold to 10 countries, including Israel, France, Spain, English and French speaking Canada, the Netherlands, Norway and Italy, putting it among the most successful formats for the broadcaster.
The program is also a finalist for Mipcom’s best Entertainment Format of the Year at the Television Business International – Content Innovation Awards.
Children’s series...
- 9/27/2019
- by jkeast
- IF.com.au
Nikki Tran and Davey Thompson.
Davey Thompson and Nikki Tran are the recipients of Film Victoria’s inaugural Victorian Screen Development Internships. The program will see the pair follow the full lifecycle of developing content across Film Victoria, the ABC, Matchbox Pictures and Princess Pictures.
At Film Victoria they’ll learn how to assess pitches, scripts and funding applications; at the ABC they’ll work with commissioning editors and EPs across the production process; and then at Matchbox Pictures and Princess Pictures, they’ll learn first-hand from principal producers. The internship program was designed to provide career pathways for Indigenous and traditionally under-represented Victorian creative talent.
Thompson and Tran were selected from 65 applicants, with 19 of which longlisted by Film Victoria, Davey and Nikki impressed representatives from the ABC, Princess Pictures and Matchbox Pictures with their career aspirations and the clarity of what they were each looking to gain from the internship.
Davey Thompson and Nikki Tran are the recipients of Film Victoria’s inaugural Victorian Screen Development Internships. The program will see the pair follow the full lifecycle of developing content across Film Victoria, the ABC, Matchbox Pictures and Princess Pictures.
At Film Victoria they’ll learn how to assess pitches, scripts and funding applications; at the ABC they’ll work with commissioning editors and EPs across the production process; and then at Matchbox Pictures and Princess Pictures, they’ll learn first-hand from principal producers. The internship program was designed to provide career pathways for Indigenous and traditionally under-represented Victorian creative talent.
Thompson and Tran were selected from 65 applicants, with 19 of which longlisted by Film Victoria, Davey and Nikki impressed representatives from the ABC, Princess Pictures and Matchbox Pictures with their career aspirations and the clarity of what they were each looking to gain from the internship.
- 8/23/2019
- by jkeast
- IF.com.au
Michael Carrington.
After acting in the role for almost a year, Michael Carrington has been officially appointed director of entertainment and specialist at the ABC.
Previously the E&s director role was held by ABC managing director David Anderson. Carrington’s among a range of new senior appointments at the public broadcaster, including Judith Whelan as director of ABC’s regional and local operations, and Libbie Doherty as head of children’s production.
Prior to being appointed acting head of E&s, Carrington had been acting as the department’s head of distribution.
Previously he was the ABC’s head of children’s content, a role he’d held since 2016.
Over his career, Carrington has worked at the BBC, including as channel controller and creative director of the CBeebies preschool channel, and at Turner Broadcasting as chief content officer, where he won an International Emmy for The Amazing World of Gumball.
After acting in the role for almost a year, Michael Carrington has been officially appointed director of entertainment and specialist at the ABC.
Previously the E&s director role was held by ABC managing director David Anderson. Carrington’s among a range of new senior appointments at the public broadcaster, including Judith Whelan as director of ABC’s regional and local operations, and Libbie Doherty as head of children’s production.
Prior to being appointed acting head of E&s, Carrington had been acting as the department’s head of distribution.
Previously he was the ABC’s head of children’s content, a role he’d held since 2016.
Over his career, Carrington has worked at the BBC, including as channel controller and creative director of the CBeebies preschool channel, and at Turner Broadcasting as chief content officer, where he won an International Emmy for The Amazing World of Gumball.
- 8/21/2019
- by jkeast
- IF.com.au
Marena Manzoufas.
Veteran broadcasting and TV distribution executive Marena Manzoufas is being remembered as a smart and adventurous woman who made an immense contribution to Australian TV.
A founding member of Bruce Gyngell’s executive team at Sbs in 1980, Manzoufas died on Friday from brain cancer, aged 68.
At Sbs she set up the subtitling unit, recalling: “The discussion that the fifth channel in Sydney and Melbourne should be a multicultural service, accessible to the community at large, and not an ethnic television service accessible only to particular language speakers at particular times, led directly to the need to establish a subtitling capacity, a quite new and unique venture in Australian television.
“When the unit was established, there was virtually no existing expertise in Australia, no trained personnel and certainly no body of knowledge or experience on which to draw.”
She served as deputy program director at Sbs until 1989 before joining...
Veteran broadcasting and TV distribution executive Marena Manzoufas is being remembered as a smart and adventurous woman who made an immense contribution to Australian TV.
A founding member of Bruce Gyngell’s executive team at Sbs in 1980, Manzoufas died on Friday from brain cancer, aged 68.
At Sbs she set up the subtitling unit, recalling: “The discussion that the fifth channel in Sydney and Melbourne should be a multicultural service, accessible to the community at large, and not an ethnic television service accessible only to particular language speakers at particular times, led directly to the need to establish a subtitling capacity, a quite new and unique venture in Australian television.
“When the unit was established, there was virtually no existing expertise in Australia, no trained personnel and certainly no body of knowledge or experience on which to draw.”
She served as deputy program director at Sbs until 1989 before joining...
- 7/8/2019
- by The IF Team
- IF.com.au
Libbie Doherty.
The ABC has confirmed Libbie Doherty as head of children’s production after she served as acting head of children’s content for the past year.
She stepped up following the promotion of Michael Carrington to acting director of entertainment and specialist.
In the new position she will commission more than 350 hours of content annually across the ABC’s two children’s TV channels, which reach up to 94 per cent of Australians aged under 15.
She will oversee in-house development and production across ABC Kids, ABC Me, ABC Kids listen and on children’s digital products and third-party platforms and take the lead on commissioning external producers.
That’s the first major appointment since David Anderson was confirmed as the MD, suggesting there will be a high degree of continuity at the broadcaster.
Since joining ABC children’s as commissioning editor in 2015, she has been influential in the creation...
The ABC has confirmed Libbie Doherty as head of children’s production after she served as acting head of children’s content for the past year.
She stepped up following the promotion of Michael Carrington to acting director of entertainment and specialist.
In the new position she will commission more than 350 hours of content annually across the ABC’s two children’s TV channels, which reach up to 94 per cent of Australians aged under 15.
She will oversee in-house development and production across ABC Kids, ABC Me, ABC Kids listen and on children’s digital products and third-party platforms and take the lead on commissioning external producers.
That’s the first major appointment since David Anderson was confirmed as the MD, suggesting there will be a high degree of continuity at the broadcaster.
Since joining ABC children’s as commissioning editor in 2015, she has been influential in the creation...
- 6/4/2019
- by The IF Team
- IF.com.au
Screenmakers will have the chance to pitch a short-form scripted or factual concept to ABC creative executives and other industry experts at the Screen Makers Conference in Adelaide in July.
The winner of the live pitch competition, known as Pitch-o-rama, will receive $10,000 from the ABC and the Media Resource Centre for development, and assistance from the ABC TV commissioning to help progress their idea for digital audiences.
Each entrant will have three minutes to make their pitch in front of live audience, and will be judged by strength of the concept, creative presentation and audience response. Last year’s winner was Ana Carbajo with comedy series Inner Lucy.
Acting ABC Director of Entertainment & Specialist Michael Carrington said: “The ABC is delighted to support Pitch-o-rama again as part of our commitment to supporting innovative and emerging Australian storytellers. Live pitching puts the strength and creativity of concepts to an immediate pressure-cooker test.
The winner of the live pitch competition, known as Pitch-o-rama, will receive $10,000 from the ABC and the Media Resource Centre for development, and assistance from the ABC TV commissioning to help progress their idea for digital audiences.
Each entrant will have three minutes to make their pitch in front of live audience, and will be judged by strength of the concept, creative presentation and audience response. Last year’s winner was Ana Carbajo with comedy series Inner Lucy.
Acting ABC Director of Entertainment & Specialist Michael Carrington said: “The ABC is delighted to support Pitch-o-rama again as part of our commitment to supporting innovative and emerging Australian storytellers. Live pitching puts the strength and creativity of concepts to an immediate pressure-cooker test.
- 6/3/2019
- by jkeast
- IF.com.au
Sally O’Donoghue.
Sally O’Donoghue has quit the ABC after eight years as manager of iview, the country’s most popular entertainment online platform..
Michael Carrington, the ABC’s acting director of entertainment and specialist, tells If: “Over eight years Sally has remained a passionate fan of our programs and program makers, never missing an opportunity to respond in times of national significance to ensure iview has a timely and compelling program offering for our audiences.
“We thank Sally for her contribution to iview and the ABC and wish her all the best.”
While the ABC searches for a successor, David Glen, manager of children’s digital (ABC Kids and ABC Me websites and apps) will manage the iview team, reporting to acting head of distribution Cath Dwyer.
O’Donoghue, who is not yet ready to reveal her career plans, says: “It’s been a great privilege to have worked with such dedicated,...
Sally O’Donoghue has quit the ABC after eight years as manager of iview, the country’s most popular entertainment online platform..
Michael Carrington, the ABC’s acting director of entertainment and specialist, tells If: “Over eight years Sally has remained a passionate fan of our programs and program makers, never missing an opportunity to respond in times of national significance to ensure iview has a timely and compelling program offering for our audiences.
“We thank Sally for her contribution to iview and the ABC and wish her all the best.”
While the ABC searches for a successor, David Glen, manager of children’s digital (ABC Kids and ABC Me websites and apps) will manage the iview team, reporting to acting head of distribution Cath Dwyer.
O’Donoghue, who is not yet ready to reveal her career plans, says: “It’s been a great privilege to have worked with such dedicated,...
- 5/29/2019
- by The IF Team
- IF.com.au
David Anderson and Ita Buttrose.
The ABC board today confirmed David Anderson will lead the organisation as MD for the next five years, assuring stability and continuity after the recent turbulence.
Formerly director, entertainment and specialist, Anderson has been acting in the post since last September when Michelle Guthrie was sacked by the board then headed by Justine Milne.
Ita Buttrose, who replaced Milne as ABC chair, said today: “Mr Anderson is an exceptional media professional with strong content, digital and strategic experience.
“The ABC board resolved unanimously to appoint David Anderson following a national and international search that produced many impressive candidates.
“With almost 30 years of service, David’s knowledge of the ABC is unsurpassed. He has a deep understanding of audience needs and the board is confident he has the skills and ability to respond to the challenges of a changing media environment.
“We believe he is the...
The ABC board today confirmed David Anderson will lead the organisation as MD for the next five years, assuring stability and continuity after the recent turbulence.
Formerly director, entertainment and specialist, Anderson has been acting in the post since last September when Michelle Guthrie was sacked by the board then headed by Justine Milne.
Ita Buttrose, who replaced Milne as ABC chair, said today: “Mr Anderson is an exceptional media professional with strong content, digital and strategic experience.
“The ABC board resolved unanimously to appoint David Anderson following a national and international search that produced many impressive candidates.
“With almost 30 years of service, David’s knowledge of the ABC is unsurpassed. He has a deep understanding of audience needs and the board is confident he has the skills and ability to respond to the challenges of a changing media environment.
“We believe he is the...
- 5/3/2019
- by The IF Team
- IF.com.au
Jordyn Nolan, who is completing a Film Victoria attachment on ‘Little J and Big Cuz’.
Film Victoria, in partnership with the ABC, Matchbox Pictures and Princess Pictures, has launched a new industry internship program to the provide career pathways for Indigenous and traditionally under-represented Victorian creative talent.
The Victorian Screen Development Internships are open to creatives with a passion for storytelling, regardless of their artistic discipline, providing they have some experience developing, producing, writing or editing creative content, projects or productions.
The paid internships are designed to give participants experience with the full scope of screen content development over a 12 month period, offering placements of up to four months with each program partner. The idea is that interns will learn how to assess pitches, scripts and funding applications with Film Victoria, will shadow commissioning editors at the ABC, and will learn from principal producers at Matchbox Pictures or Princess Pictures.
Film Victoria, in partnership with the ABC, Matchbox Pictures and Princess Pictures, has launched a new industry internship program to the provide career pathways for Indigenous and traditionally under-represented Victorian creative talent.
The Victorian Screen Development Internships are open to creatives with a passion for storytelling, regardless of their artistic discipline, providing they have some experience developing, producing, writing or editing creative content, projects or productions.
The paid internships are designed to give participants experience with the full scope of screen content development over a 12 month period, offering placements of up to four months with each program partner. The idea is that interns will learn how to assess pitches, scripts and funding applications with Film Victoria, will shadow commissioning editors at the ABC, and will learn from principal producers at Matchbox Pictures or Princess Pictures.
- 4/4/2019
- by jkeast
- IF.com.au
Corrie Chen (left) is part of the creative team behind ‘Attempts’, one of the recipients of funding via the Half Hour Drama Development Initiative.
Create Nsw and the ABC have unveiled the recipients of $445,000 in funding, spanning across three different drama initiatives and expected to create 530 jobs in Nsw.
This includes $225,000 towards the Digital First Comedy Initiative, run between the agency, the broadcaster and Western Sydney creative hub I.C.E (Information+Cultural Exchange). This will fund the production of three shorts from teams that include a Western Sydney-based key creative, set to premiere on ABC iview later this year. The shorts cover carpark adventures of three women in Western Sydney, the tales of hijabis enduring culture clash and vampire slayers in Parramatta.
Another $100,000 has been put towards the Half Hour Drama Development Initiative, supporting four Nsw-based teams to develop distinctive character driven 30-minute drama series “with heart and humour...
Create Nsw and the ABC have unveiled the recipients of $445,000 in funding, spanning across three different drama initiatives and expected to create 530 jobs in Nsw.
This includes $225,000 towards the Digital First Comedy Initiative, run between the agency, the broadcaster and Western Sydney creative hub I.C.E (Information+Cultural Exchange). This will fund the production of three shorts from teams that include a Western Sydney-based key creative, set to premiere on ABC iview later this year. The shorts cover carpark adventures of three women in Western Sydney, the tales of hijabis enduring culture clash and vampire slayers in Parramatta.
Another $100,000 has been put towards the Half Hour Drama Development Initiative, supporting four Nsw-based teams to develop distinctive character driven 30-minute drama series “with heart and humour...
- 2/28/2019
- by jkeast
- IF.com.au
Steve Bibb.
Steve Bibb has departed after four years as head of factual at the ABC, where he oversaw an impressive slate which included War on Waste, Employable Me, Anh’s Brush With Fame, Stargazing Live, Back in Time for Dinner and Hawke: The Larrikin and the Leader.
Previously executive producer of factual at Cjz, at the ABC Bibb succeeded Phil Craig, who returned to the UK as chief creative officer for Discovery Networks International and is now head of factual for Electric Pictures.
He tells If he is likely to return to making programs with an independent production company but staying in commissioning is also an option in Australia or overseas and he is in talks with a number of people.
There will not be an immediate replacement at the ABC as the day-to-day running of productions will continue to be overseen by the factual team led by Josie Mason-Campbell,...
Steve Bibb has departed after four years as head of factual at the ABC, where he oversaw an impressive slate which included War on Waste, Employable Me, Anh’s Brush With Fame, Stargazing Live, Back in Time for Dinner and Hawke: The Larrikin and the Leader.
Previously executive producer of factual at Cjz, at the ABC Bibb succeeded Phil Craig, who returned to the UK as chief creative officer for Discovery Networks International and is now head of factual for Electric Pictures.
He tells If he is likely to return to making programs with an independent production company but staying in commissioning is also an option in Australia or overseas and he is in talks with a number of people.
There will not be an immediate replacement at the ABC as the day-to-day running of productions will continue to be overseen by the factual team led by Josie Mason-Campbell,...
- 1/20/2019
- by The IF Team
- IF.com.au
Joanna (Jenna Coleman) and Alistair (Ewen Leslie) with baby Noah in The Cry.
Tony Ayres identifies the primary challenge for TV content makers this year as creating work that not only makes an immediate impact but maintains quality for the whole series.
Blake Ayshford expects to see more new voices emerge, often from communities that are under-represented on screens and in writers’ rooms. The conundrum for the industry, he believes, will be how to embrace these new voices without losing the stories and experience of established practitioners.
Glendyn Ivin is keen to explore new models for TV production on short-run series with a single director, using smaller crews and infrastructure but with more time for shooting and editing.
Among the Australian Children’s Television Foundation’s objectives are securing more funding for children’s content and exploring opportunities for children’s content from emerging as well as experienced producers on online platforms,...
Tony Ayres identifies the primary challenge for TV content makers this year as creating work that not only makes an immediate impact but maintains quality for the whole series.
Blake Ayshford expects to see more new voices emerge, often from communities that are under-represented on screens and in writers’ rooms. The conundrum for the industry, he believes, will be how to embrace these new voices without losing the stories and experience of established practitioners.
Glendyn Ivin is keen to explore new models for TV production on short-run series with a single director, using smaller crews and infrastructure but with more time for shooting and editing.
Among the Australian Children’s Television Foundation’s objectives are securing more funding for children’s content and exploring opportunities for children’s content from emerging as well as experienced producers on online platforms,...
- 1/8/2019
- by The IF Team
- IF.com.au
Create Nsw and the ABC have once again teamed up to offer Vr practitioners funding via the 360 Vision Virtual Reality Development Initiative, with a continued commitment from both to support up to six teams with $20,000 each.
Proposals are sought for applications across all types of genres and formats, with companion projects to already established works welcome in addition to entirely new projects. Submissions will be accepted for projects at all stages of development, whether from established or emerging practitioners, however all applicant teams must have at least one Nsw-based key creative attached.
Create Nsw acting director screen investment, engagement and attraction Sally Regan said: “This development initiative is a fantastic opportunity that, given the incredible scope of the Vr realm, really gives teams the permission to be as imaginative as they can.
“So far across the two years, we’ve supported projects including murder conspiracies and investigations, adventures with prehistoric...
Proposals are sought for applications across all types of genres and formats, with companion projects to already established works welcome in addition to entirely new projects. Submissions will be accepted for projects at all stages of development, whether from established or emerging practitioners, however all applicant teams must have at least one Nsw-based key creative attached.
Create Nsw acting director screen investment, engagement and attraction Sally Regan said: “This development initiative is a fantastic opportunity that, given the incredible scope of the Vr realm, really gives teams the permission to be as imaginative as they can.
“So far across the two years, we’ve supported projects including murder conspiracies and investigations, adventures with prehistoric...
- 11/16/2018
- by jkeast
- IF.com.au
Nicole Kidman and Joel Edgerton on the set of ‘Boy Erased.’
Joel Edgerton and Simon Baker have scored nominations in the feature film direction and acting categories for Boy Erased and Breath, the first time that’s happened in the same year in AFI | Aacta history.
Edgerton and Baker will compete for four prizes at this year’s awards which will be handed out at an industry luncheon on December 3 and at the ceremony on December 5. Both titles have been nominated for best film and Edgerton and Baker are also in the running for best supporting actor and adapted screenplay.
In total 19 features received nominations, with five vying for best film: Boy Erased, Breath, Yolanda Ramke and Ben Howling’s Cargo, Bruce Beresford’s Ladies in Black and Warwick Thornton’s Sweet Country.
The five titles competing for the new category of best indie film budgeted under $2 million are the Jacobson brothers’ Sibling Rivalry,...
Joel Edgerton and Simon Baker have scored nominations in the feature film direction and acting categories for Boy Erased and Breath, the first time that’s happened in the same year in AFI | Aacta history.
Edgerton and Baker will compete for four prizes at this year’s awards which will be handed out at an industry luncheon on December 3 and at the ceremony on December 5. Both titles have been nominated for best film and Edgerton and Baker are also in the running for best supporting actor and adapted screenplay.
In total 19 features received nominations, with five vying for best film: Boy Erased, Breath, Yolanda Ramke and Ben Howling’s Cargo, Bruce Beresford’s Ladies in Black and Warwick Thornton’s Sweet Country.
The five titles competing for the new category of best indie film budgeted under $2 million are the Jacobson brothers’ Sibling Rivalry,...
- 10/29/2018
- by The IF Team
- IF.com.au
Sacha Gregson.
The ABC has promoted Sacha Gregson to acting head of content investment and planning in the entertainment and specialist division.
She takes over from Alastair McKinnon, who departs the broadcaster next month to take up the post of MD of NBCUniversal’s Matchbox Pictures.
Last year Gregson was appointed production executive in children’s content, working with the creative team to develop and commission drama, animation and factual content with internal and external producers.
Angela Burgess, currently ABC business manager in operations, will act in that role.
In her new post Gregson will liaise between content areas and Michael Carrington, the acting director of E&S, to develop funding initiatives with Screen Australia and the state agencies. She will also oversee the content business management team and their commissioning roles.
Based at the ABC Southbank Centre, she has worked in the broadcasting industry for more than 20 years. From 1995 to...
The ABC has promoted Sacha Gregson to acting head of content investment and planning in the entertainment and specialist division.
She takes over from Alastair McKinnon, who departs the broadcaster next month to take up the post of MD of NBCUniversal’s Matchbox Pictures.
Last year Gregson was appointed production executive in children’s content, working with the creative team to develop and commission drama, animation and factual content with internal and external producers.
Angela Burgess, currently ABC business manager in operations, will act in that role.
In her new post Gregson will liaise between content areas and Michael Carrington, the acting director of E&S, to develop funding initiatives with Screen Australia and the state agencies. She will also oversee the content business management team and their commissioning roles.
Based at the ABC Southbank Centre, she has worked in the broadcasting industry for more than 20 years. From 1995 to...
- 10/8/2018
- by The IF Team
- IF.com.au
Justin Milne.
ABC chairman Justin Milne has resigned following mounting public and internal pressure.
On Monday, ABC managing director Michelle Guthrie was sacked by the ABC’s board, who stated it had decided it was not in the public broadcaster’s best interest that she continue to lead the organisation. David Anderson, director, entertainment and specialist, was appointed acting MD, while Guthrie announced she would consider legal options.
In the days since, Fairfax Media reported that Milne – a friend of former Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull who was appointed chairman last year – had pressured Guthrie to “get rid of” ABC senior journalist Emma Alberci because she was disliked by the Federal Government.
The news of this prompted ABC staff in Sydney and Melbourne hold meetings in which they voted for Milne’s resignation, and staff in Brisbane called on the chairman to publicly acknowledge if the reports were true, and if so to resign.
ABC chairman Justin Milne has resigned following mounting public and internal pressure.
On Monday, ABC managing director Michelle Guthrie was sacked by the ABC’s board, who stated it had decided it was not in the public broadcaster’s best interest that she continue to lead the organisation. David Anderson, director, entertainment and specialist, was appointed acting MD, while Guthrie announced she would consider legal options.
In the days since, Fairfax Media reported that Milne – a friend of former Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull who was appointed chairman last year – had pressured Guthrie to “get rid of” ABC senior journalist Emma Alberci because she was disliked by the Federal Government.
The news of this prompted ABC staff in Sydney and Melbourne hold meetings in which they voted for Milne’s resignation, and staff in Brisbane called on the chairman to publicly acknowledge if the reports were true, and if so to resign.
- 9/27/2018
- by jkeast
- IF.com.au
Grease 2 has long unjustly suffered as a box office bomb and disappointing sequel. It’s actually even better than the classic Grease in many ways, at least when it comes to gender dynamics. Maxwell Caulfield plays Michael Carrington, a new student at Rydell high. He falls in love with Pink Lady Stephanie (Michelle Pfeiffer) who only dates T-Birds. So Michael creates a mysterious biker persona to woo her. Filmmaker Brian Herzlinger (My Date with Drew) assembled director Pat Birch and cast members Caulfield, Adrian Zmed, Leif Green, Christopher McDonald, Alison Price, Maureen Teefy, Liz Sagal and Jean Sagal for a […]
The post The Travolta/Newton John Cameo We Almost Got and 11 More Things We Learned From The Cast and Director Of Grease 2! appeared first on Monsters and Critics.
The post The Travolta/Newton John Cameo We Almost Got and 11 More Things We Learned From The Cast and Director Of Grease 2! appeared first on Monsters and Critics.
- 4/12/2018
- by Fred Topel
- Monsters and Critics
The Strange Chores..
Ludo Studio and Media World Pictures are set to join forces on upcoming ABC Me comedy series The Strange Chores..
A 26 x 11 minute animated series, The Strange Chores will see two teenage wannabe warrior heroes Charlie and Pierce, as well as spirited ghost girl Que, master the skills they need to replace ageing monster-slayer Old Man Helsing by doing his supernatural chores..
Ludo Studio is known for its international award winning series Doodles and #7 Days Later, and Media Pictures is behind the .Aacta Award winning children.s comedy.The Flamin. Thongs.
The Strange Chores is to be produced by Media World.s Colin South (Trip For Biscuits, The Flamin. Thongs) and Ludo.s Charlie Aspinwall (Doodles, #7 Days Later). The script has been penned by Ludo showrunner Daley Pearson (Doodles, #7 Days Later, The Strange Calls) with animation direction by Scott Vanden Bosch (Dogstar, Dogstar: Christmas in Space).
This...
Ludo Studio and Media World Pictures are set to join forces on upcoming ABC Me comedy series The Strange Chores..
A 26 x 11 minute animated series, The Strange Chores will see two teenage wannabe warrior heroes Charlie and Pierce, as well as spirited ghost girl Que, master the skills they need to replace ageing monster-slayer Old Man Helsing by doing his supernatural chores..
Ludo Studio is known for its international award winning series Doodles and #7 Days Later, and Media Pictures is behind the .Aacta Award winning children.s comedy.The Flamin. Thongs.
The Strange Chores is to be produced by Media World.s Colin South (Trip For Biscuits, The Flamin. Thongs) and Ludo.s Charlie Aspinwall (Doodles, #7 Days Later). The script has been penned by Ludo showrunner Daley Pearson (Doodles, #7 Days Later, The Strange Calls) with animation direction by Scott Vanden Bosch (Dogstar, Dogstar: Christmas in Space).
This...
- 6/27/2017
- by Staff Writer
- IF.com.au
Television show to air on ABC (Australia), Tvnz, Netflix in 2018.
Production is underway in New Zealand on live-action television series The Legend Of Monkey that See-Saw Films is producing with Jump Film & TV.
The series is an official New Zealand-Australian co-production with principal investment from Screen Australia in association with Screen Nsw, Fulcrum Media Finance and the New Zealand Screen Production Grant.
The series from head writer Jacquelin Perske, along with writers Craig Irvin and Samantha Strauss, is filming on location in and around Auckland, New Zealand, and will premiere on ABC (Australia), Tvnz and Netflix in 2018.
Gerard Johnstone is the lead director, with Craig Irvin directing additional episodes on the show, inspired by the 16th Century Chinese fable Journey To The West.
The 10-part half-hour series follows a teenage girl and a trio of fallen gods on a perilous journey as they attempt to bring an end to a demonic reign of chaos and restore balance...
Production is underway in New Zealand on live-action television series The Legend Of Monkey that See-Saw Films is producing with Jump Film & TV.
The series is an official New Zealand-Australian co-production with principal investment from Screen Australia in association with Screen Nsw, Fulcrum Media Finance and the New Zealand Screen Production Grant.
The series from head writer Jacquelin Perske, along with writers Craig Irvin and Samantha Strauss, is filming on location in and around Auckland, New Zealand, and will premiere on ABC (Australia), Tvnz and Netflix in 2018.
Gerard Johnstone is the lead director, with Craig Irvin directing additional episodes on the show, inspired by the 16th Century Chinese fable Journey To The West.
The 10-part half-hour series follows a teenage girl and a trio of fallen gods on a perilous journey as they attempt to bring an end to a demonic reign of chaos and restore balance...
- 4/19/2017
- ScreenDaily
Grace Beside Me..
Nitv has commissioned its first ever scripted live-action series, Grace Beside Me.
Adapted from the novel by Sue McPherson, the 13 x 26 series — pitched as .the story of an extraordinary girl trying to lead an ordinary life" — is produced by Magpie Pictures, with investment from Screen Australia.s Indigenous Department, Screen Queensland, the ABC, as well as assistance from Screen Nsw.
Aimed at 8-12 year olds, Grace Beside Me follows Fuzzy Mac, a 13-year-old who discovers she can see ghosts and spirits. However, all she wants to do is fit in, as it.s .hard enough navigating the highs and lows of becoming a teenager while living with your eccentric Nan and Pop, without also having to deal with needy ghosts, mischievous totems and cantankerous Ancestors..
Mac is said to have .one foot in the Indigenous realm of culture, Country — and spirits — and the other firmly planted in...
Nitv has commissioned its first ever scripted live-action series, Grace Beside Me.
Adapted from the novel by Sue McPherson, the 13 x 26 series — pitched as .the story of an extraordinary girl trying to lead an ordinary life" — is produced by Magpie Pictures, with investment from Screen Australia.s Indigenous Department, Screen Queensland, the ABC, as well as assistance from Screen Nsw.
Aimed at 8-12 year olds, Grace Beside Me follows Fuzzy Mac, a 13-year-old who discovers she can see ghosts and spirits. However, all she wants to do is fit in, as it.s .hard enough navigating the highs and lows of becoming a teenager while living with your eccentric Nan and Pop, without also having to deal with needy ghosts, mischievous totems and cantankerous Ancestors..
Mac is said to have .one foot in the Indigenous realm of culture, Country — and spirits — and the other firmly planted in...
- 1/17/2017
- by Staff Writer
- IF.com.au
This week, some 200,000 Year 12 students will receive their Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (Atar). Among them are 14 who documented their final year of school for upcoming ABC series.My Year 12 Life.
Princess Pictures gave each of the 14 students a camera at the start of 2016 and asked them to film their life.
The resulting 26 x 30 series, which aims to create national conversation about the pressures of Year 12, is a .vlogumentary. — there were no film crews or producers on the ground.
As the students. final year comes to an end, so too does filming. The students have captured 1000s of hours of vision, each whittled down to an average 30-60 mins of footage every week. The completed series will also include media from the students' social platforms such as Instagram and Snapchat.
.It.s time we talked about the stress we.re putting on teenagers, and the effect of telling them they should be judged by one number,...
Princess Pictures gave each of the 14 students a camera at the start of 2016 and asked them to film their life.
The resulting 26 x 30 series, which aims to create national conversation about the pressures of Year 12, is a .vlogumentary. — there were no film crews or producers on the ground.
As the students. final year comes to an end, so too does filming. The students have captured 1000s of hours of vision, each whittled down to an average 30-60 mins of footage every week. The completed series will also include media from the students' social platforms such as Instagram and Snapchat.
.It.s time we talked about the stress we.re putting on teenagers, and the effect of telling them they should be judged by one number,...
- 12/8/2016
- by Staff Writer
- IF.com.au
Michael Carrington.
Michael Carrington is set to become the new Head of Children.s and Education at ABC TV.
Carrington is currently CEO of Zodiak Kids Studios, working in London and Paris, where he is responsible for the company.s international portfolio of live-action and animation.
Previously Carrington has been Vice President, Global Content & Executive Producer at Hit Entertainment Ltd as well as Chief Content Officer at the Cartoon Network.
He's also worked for the BBC, Lego Media, Discovery Communications, Amazon Films and Network Ten.
.Michael brings to the ABC a wealth of knowledge and international experience in children.s television", ABC Director of Television Richard Finlayson said.
"We look forward to working with Michael in the important new role of Head of Children.s and Education, as we continue to lead the way in sharing trustworthy, entertaining and educational content with our youngest audiences..
Michael Carrington is set to become the new Head of Children.s and Education at ABC TV.
Carrington is currently CEO of Zodiak Kids Studios, working in London and Paris, where he is responsible for the company.s international portfolio of live-action and animation.
Previously Carrington has been Vice President, Global Content & Executive Producer at Hit Entertainment Ltd as well as Chief Content Officer at the Cartoon Network.
He's also worked for the BBC, Lego Media, Discovery Communications, Amazon Films and Network Ten.
.Michael brings to the ABC a wealth of knowledge and international experience in children.s television", ABC Director of Television Richard Finlayson said.
"We look forward to working with Michael in the important new role of Head of Children.s and Education, as we continue to lead the way in sharing trustworthy, entertaining and educational content with our youngest audiences..
- 5/17/2016
- by Staff Writer
- IF.com.au
Forty programs from 19 countries have been nominated for 2015 International Emmy Awards. None, alas from Australia.
The awards cover 10 categories and will be announced on November 23 at the Hilton New York Hotel.
Nominees come from Angola, Austria, Argentina, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Colombia, France, Japan, Mexico, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, South Africa, South Korea, Turkey, UK and the Us. This year the Academy will present two special awards. Downton Abbey writer/creator Julian Fellowes will receive the 2015 International Emmy® Founders Award.
HBO chairman/CEO Richard Plepler will receive the 2015 International Emmy Directorate Award.
As If reported Matchbox Pictures. Nowhere Boys and Galaxy Pop.s Get Ace are in the running for the 2016 International Emmy Kids Awards for best kids series and kids animation.
The full list of nominees: Arts Programming Buenaventura No Me Dejes Mas (Buenaventura, Don.t Leave Me) Caracol Televisión / Laberinto Cine y Televisión Colombia Illustre & Inconnu: Comment Jacques Jaujard...
The awards cover 10 categories and will be announced on November 23 at the Hilton New York Hotel.
Nominees come from Angola, Austria, Argentina, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Colombia, France, Japan, Mexico, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, South Africa, South Korea, Turkey, UK and the Us. This year the Academy will present two special awards. Downton Abbey writer/creator Julian Fellowes will receive the 2015 International Emmy® Founders Award.
HBO chairman/CEO Richard Plepler will receive the 2015 International Emmy Directorate Award.
As If reported Matchbox Pictures. Nowhere Boys and Galaxy Pop.s Get Ace are in the running for the 2016 International Emmy Kids Awards for best kids series and kids animation.
The full list of nominees: Arts Programming Buenaventura No Me Dejes Mas (Buenaventura, Don.t Leave Me) Caracol Televisión / Laberinto Cine y Televisión Colombia Illustre & Inconnu: Comment Jacques Jaujard...
- 10/5/2015
- by Staff writer
- IF.com.au
Broadway’s most exhilarating rock concert burst onto the boards earlier this year when Neil Patrick Harris stepped into the silky fishnets of Hedwig and the Angry Inch, earning a Tony for the role and ushering the East German rocker into the hands of a new generation of fans. After Harris departed the show in August, The Book of Mormon veteran Andrew Rannells was tapped to fill Hedwig’s high heels. To say his turn is electric, heartbreaking, and wholly different from Harris’ would still be underselling the performance.
With TV turns on Girls (as gay frenemy Elijah) and How I Met Your Mother...
With TV turns on Girls (as gay frenemy Elijah) and How I Met Your Mother...
- 9/16/2014
- by Marc Snetiker
- EW.com - PopWatch
A dark animated take on The Little Mermaid and the urban legend of a teenage serial killer in 1960s Poland prove stand outs at Kviff’s Works in Progress event.Scroll down for full list
Central and Eastern European filmmakers presented 14 projects at various stages of production at the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival’s annual Works in Progress initiative.
The popular industry programme at Kviff is in its tenth year, and past films shown as Works in Progress include Levan Koguashvili’s Blind Dates, Yannis Veslemes’s Norway and Darko Lungulov’s Monument to Michael Jackson, all of which play at this year’s festival.
This year’s selection included a number of standout pitches to the assembled international sales agents, distributors, co-producers and festival programmers.
Red Spider is the story of a teenage serial killer in 1960s Communist Poland. It marks the feature debut of Marcin Koszalka, best known for directing HBO documentaries.
Budgeted at around...
Central and Eastern European filmmakers presented 14 projects at various stages of production at the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival’s annual Works in Progress initiative.
The popular industry programme at Kviff is in its tenth year, and past films shown as Works in Progress include Levan Koguashvili’s Blind Dates, Yannis Veslemes’s Norway and Darko Lungulov’s Monument to Michael Jackson, all of which play at this year’s festival.
This year’s selection included a number of standout pitches to the assembled international sales agents, distributors, co-producers and festival programmers.
Red Spider is the story of a teenage serial killer in 1960s Communist Poland. It marks the feature debut of Marcin Koszalka, best known for directing HBO documentaries.
Budgeted at around...
- 7/8/2014
- by michael.rosser@screendaily.com (Michael Rosser)
- ScreenDaily
A Tom Hanks’ film will usually follow the same sentimental pattern of ‘loser triumphs’, making them predictably feel-good, heart-felt and all-American. With Hanks in the title role, Larry Crowne is no exception as the amicable star brings his charismatic warmth and inoffensive humour to yet another human story.
The story cashes in on current times of austerity and looming cuts, with Crowne (Hanks), the hardworking and perfect employee of a retail company, being made redundant, as he cannot climb the corporate ladder into management without a college education. Struck dumb by his harsh treatment, he refuses to wallow in self-pity, and is determined to make a better man of himself by going back to college and getting qualified. What Crowne doesn’t vouch for is a completely new, youthful identity and the acceptance into a cool college scooter gang – or the growing affections of his attractive lecturer, Mercedes Tainot (Julia Roberts...
The story cashes in on current times of austerity and looming cuts, with Crowne (Hanks), the hardworking and perfect employee of a retail company, being made redundant, as he cannot climb the corporate ladder into management without a college education. Struck dumb by his harsh treatment, he refuses to wallow in self-pity, and is determined to make a better man of himself by going back to college and getting qualified. What Crowne doesn’t vouch for is a completely new, youthful identity and the acceptance into a cool college scooter gang – or the growing affections of his attractive lecturer, Mercedes Tainot (Julia Roberts...
- 7/1/2011
- by Lisa Giles-Keddie
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
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