World Screen March 2022 by World Screen

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MARCH 2022

WWW.WORLDSCREEN.COM

THE MAGAZINE OF INTERNATIONAL MEDIA

Harmonica’s Josephine Bornebusch / TVNZ’s Cate Slater Premiere: All3Media International’s Murder in the Valleys In-Demand: Québec Creates / WorldScreenings: Global Agency

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CONTENTS

MARCH 2022 WORLD VIEW By Mansha Daswani. UPFRONTS New content on the market. HARMONICA’S JOSEPHINE BORNEBUSCH The actress, writer and director on her new Viaplay series. PREMIERE: MURDER IN THE VALLEYS Producer Owen Phillips and All3Media International’s Rachel Job showcase the new crime documentary. TVNZ’S CATE SLATER The director of content at the New Zealand broadcaster on her programming strategy. DESTINY AWAITS Izzet Pinto talks about Global Agency’s latest drama hit, The Game of My Destiny. IN-DEMAND: QUÉBEC CREATES Spotlighting some of the best content from companies in Québec. TRENDING ON WORLDSCREENINGS.COM The most-viewed clips on our video portal for the last 30 days.

Publisher Ricardo Seguin Guise Group Editorial Director Anna Carugati Editor Mansha Daswani Executive Editor Kristin Brzoznowski

M6’S PHILIPPE BONY The general manager of thematic TV channels at M6 Group and president of Gulli on the company’s winning combination of linear and digital platforms. DREAMWORKS ANIMATION’S PETER GAL The chief creative officer for television at DreamWorks Animation articulated the studio’s approach to developing content. MATTEL’S FRED SOULIE The senior VP and general manager of Mattel Television on how the toy giant is expanding its slate. STUDIO 100’S HANS BOURLON The CEO and co-founder of Studio 100 discussed the company’s 360-degree approach to building brands. WILDBRAIN’S JOSH SCHERBA The president of WildBrain weighed in on how the kids and family giant is evolving amid changes in the market. EONE FAMILY BRANDS’ OLIVIER DUMONT The president of eOne Family Brands on the approach to developing new IP and managing known franchises. NICK PARK The four-time Oscar winner, a co-director at Aardman, spoke about the enduring appeal of Wallace and Gromit and Shaun the Sheep. POCKET.WATCH’S CHRIS M. WILLIAMS The founder and CEO of pocket.watch explained the company’s approach to developing IP for a digital-first generation. BLUEY’S JOE BRUMM The creator shared the genesis of the hit Australian show. COMMON SENSE NETWORKS’ ERIC BERGER The company’s CEO outlined the strategy for the recently launched AVOD service Sensical. BEHIND THE SCENES OF ALMA’S WAY Sonia Manzano and Ellen Doherty offered an inside look at the creation of the new PBS KIDS show. THE KIDOODLE.TV WAY Brenda Bisner, the platform’s chief content officer, discussed working with programming partners, the Safe Streaming movement and more. ALICE’S WONDERLAND BAKERY’S CHELSEA BEYL The Emmy-nominated writer and producer took viewers behind the scenes of the Disney Junior series. HIT SEEKERS WarnerMedia Kids & Family’s Adina Pitt, KiKA’s Sebastian Debertin, M6 Group’s Maud Branly and CBC’s Marie McCann shared their acquisition strategies. ENGAGING KIDS TODAY WildBrain’s Deirdre Brennan and Guru Studio’s Frank Falcone in a candid conversation about the complexities of the kids’ business today. THE MCFIRE FAMILY Pierre Sissmann, chairman and CEO of Cyber Group Studios, and Coralie Boitrelle-Laigle, head of content for M6 Group’s kids’ channels in France, gave a preview of the animated series. LITTLE LEARNERS Serious Kids’ Genevieve Dexter, Jetpack Distribution’s Dominic Gardiner, Dandelooo’s Emmanuèle Pétry-Sirvin and CAKE’s Daniel Bays on appealing to preschool audiences. FRENCH FLAIR Cyber Group Studios’ Raphaëlle Mathieu, TeamTO’s Corinne Kouper and Zephyr Animation’s David Sauerwein discussed the latest developments in French animation. THE THUNDERBIRD & ATOMIC SPIRIT Thunderbird Entertainment’s Jennifer Twiner McCarron, Matt Berkowitz and Richard Goldsmith on the company’s strategy to become a global studio. THAT’S A WRAP! TV Kids’ Anna Carugati offered up a closing message. IN-DEMAND: KOREAN ANIMATION Showcases six new animated properties from South Korea. IN-DEMAND: DIVERSITY & INCLUSION Shows that put diversity and inclusion front and center. IN-DEMAND: GIRL POWER Series with powerful girl characters in the lead. IN-DEMAND: STEM/STEAM Properties that feature science, tech, engineering, arts and math curricula. WORLD SCREEN is a registered trademark of WSN INC., 1123 Broadway, Suite 1207, New York, NY 10010, U.S.A. Phone: (212) 924-7620 Fax: (212) 924-6940 Website: www.worldscreen.com ©2022 WSN INC. No part of this publication can be used, reprinted, copied or stored in any medium without the publisher’s authorization. For a free subscription to our newsletters, please visit www.subscriptions.ws.

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Managing Editor Chelsea Regan Associate Editor Jamie Stalcup Editor, Spanish-Language Publications Elizabeth Bowen-Tombari Contributing Editor Elizabeth Guider Production & Design Director David Diehl Online Director Simon Weaver Senior Sales & Marketing Manager Dana Mattison Sales & Marketing Coordinator Genovick Acevedo Business Affairs Manager Andrea Moreno Contributing Writers Steve Clarke Andy Fry Joanna Stephens Jay Stuart David Wood

Ricardo Seguin Guise President Anna Carugati Executive VP Mansha Daswani Associate Publisher & VP of Strategic Development

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WORLD VIEW

BY MANSHA DASWANI

The Next Wave The streaming wars will take on an entirely new dimension this year as the global majors look to those markets once dubbed “emerging” to reach their ambitious subscriber targets. Indeed, according to a recent study by GlobalData, the U.S. and Europe— sophisticated, developed SVOD territories—are “Netflix’d out.” “The U.S. and European markets are completely saturated, with customers having a growing number of competitors to choose from,” said Francesca Gregory, associate analyst at GlobalData. “Therefore, streaming companies’ mantra of ‘content is king’ is no longer guaranteeing ideal subscription growth. Netflix will need to refine its emerging economy strategy, which has been lacking.” GlobalData specifically mentions India, where Netflix has struggled to generate the kind of traction with its originals that the likes of Prime Video, Disney+ Hotstar and local giants such as ZEE5, SonyLIV and Voot have. Plus, GlobalData says, Netflix’s pricing strategy hasn’t worked in India either. But ultimately, it’s not just Netflix, and it’s not just India. The global streamers have invested heavily in originals in North America and Europe, and while they have begun those efforts elsewhere, there is a fair bit of catching up to do. In the meantime, local players are getting stronger, from Nippon TV’s Hulu in Japan and Viu in Southeast Asia to Shahid in the Middle East and Stan in Australia. These operators may not have the scale to compete with the global majors’ deep pockets, but they know their consumers and are deeply plugged into local content communities. Those in-market sensibilities will serve them well as the battle for a share of consumers’ time and entertainment spend gets even more intense. 10 WORLD SCREEN 3/22

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UPFRONTS

ABS-CBN Corporation Marry Me, Marry You / When Love Burns / Viral Scandal In ABS-CBN Corporation’s Marry Me, Marry You, a strong-willed woman and a cynical businessman ﬁnd love in each other’s arms. When Love Burns is about a man who hires a sperm donor in an effort to save his marriage. Viral Scandal features the fallout after an intimate video is released on the internet. “With our unique characters, audiences may ﬁnd a new perspective, a new lens for looking at the world, but at the same time, still recognize themselves,” says Pia Laurel, department head of international sales and distribution.

Marry Me, Marry You

“We portray authentic characters that triumph despite the hardships and tragedies they face, without compromising their values.” —Pia Laurel

All3Media International Who is Ghislaine Maxwell? (w/t) / Murder in the Valleys / Gordon Ramsay’s Future Food Stars Who is Ghislaine Maxwell? (w/t) Who is Ghislaine Maxwell? (w/t) is among All3Media International’s highlights. It tells “one of the darkest and most compelling stories of our time [and] examines who Ghislaine Maxwell really is,” says Rachel Job, senior VP of nonscripted content. The true-crime series Murder in the Valleys sheds new light on a mass murder in a small Welsh community that wiped out three generations of one family in 1999. The slate also includes the new business competition series Gordon Ramsay’s Future Food Stars.

“We are very proud to be working with such a high pedigree of award-winning producers on these titles.”

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—Rachel Job

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Eccho Rights Compulsion / Desperate Measures / Chrysalis Eccho Rights is highlighting the ﬁrst two projects developed with its London office, including Compulsion from LA Productions. From Clapperboard, Desperate Measures follows a woman who ﬁnds herself in a criminal world as she tries to protect her son. The Turkish drama series Chrysalis is also on Eccho Rights’ slate. “On top of the titles from the U.K. and Turkey, we continue to offer the best in Korean drama and have an industry-leading selection of the best premium drama from the Nordics,” says Fredrik af Malmborg, managing director of Eccho Rights.

Chrysalis

“Eccho Rights aims to bring a diverse and exciting catalog of world drama to our clients from all corners of the globe.” —Fredrik af Malmborg

Electric Entertainment Leverage: Redemption / Almost Paradise / The Ark The second season of Leverage: Redemption, a highlight from Electric Entertainment, is in production. The second season of Almost Paradise, which was greenlit by IMDb TV, begins shooting this summer. “The ﬁrst seasons of Leverage: Redemption and Almost Paradise have already proven successful to the international market, and the audiences continue to grow, as their ‘blue-sky’ nature has a wide appeal on various platforms,” says Sonia Mehandjiyska, head of international distribution. There’s also the brand-new sci-ﬁ series The Ark. 3/22 WORLD SCREEN 13

Almost Paradise

“For the ﬁrst time in Electric’s history, we will be producing three different series’ seasons in one year.” —Sonia Mehandjiyska

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ITV Studios A Year on Planet Earth / Police Custody USA / Dubai Hustle ITV Studios has a host of new unscripted shows launching this spring, including A Year on Planet Earth. The landmark series has “an innovative, interlinked story arc across the seasons that marks a ﬁrst in natural-history programming,” says Cecilie Olsen, senior VP of global content for nonscripted. Police Custody USA, based on 24 Hours in Police Custody, gives viewers a front-row seat to the inner workings of the police department in Kansas City. Dubai Hustle follows a group of 20something real-estate brokers as they navigate this cutthroat and highly competitive world.

Dubai Hustle

“These shows highlight the diverse breadth of our content, from bluechip natural history through to the ever-popular crime genre.” —Cecilie Olsen

Trinity Broadcasting Network TBN / TBN Kids

Drive Thru History on TBN

TBN is a faith and family network featuring documentary, variety and scripted programming that inspires and encourages viewers. Recently, the network has made an effort to increase its faith-based documentary-style programming to reach new audiences globally. TBN is interested in ﬁnding additional international partners to expand its reach. TBN Kids is a faith and values channel for children. It features biblically-based Christian content, with family-approved liveaction and animated programming targeting kids and tweens. 14 WORLD SCREEN 3/22

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Josephine Bornebusch

Harmonica

creened at Berlinale, Harmonica, Viaplay’s latest Swedish-language original production, tells the tale of a once successful country music duo who set out on a revival tour as they face a marriage at the edge of combusting. Written by and starring Josephine Bornebusch and Jonas Karlsson—who also penned all the music for the show—the five-parter from Warner Bros. International Television Production Sverige is being rolled out by Nordic Entertainment Group’s content-sales arm. Bornebusch spoke to World Screen about co-writing the show with Karlsson, directing herself and her widening relationship with Viaplay, which began with her hit series Love Me. By Mansha Daswani WS: Tell us why you wanted to tell this story. BORNEBUSCH: Jonas [Karlsson] and I have worked together as actors in different productions for many years. He’s also a writer. We started to talk about writing something together. He’s been in a long relationship with his wife; I’ve been in a relationship for 13 years. We said we wanted to create something about old love, not someone falling in love or in the middle of a divorce. Later in the season, we reveal some tragic moments in their relationship. How can you cope with that? And can you connect to each other again, or is it over? But I had so much to do, and he had so much to do. I lived in New York for a year and went to a concert for a 3/22 WORLD SCREEN 17

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NENT Group’s Harmonica was written by Josephine Bornebusch and Jonas Karlsson, who also co-star.

Swedish band called First Aid Kit, who play Americana/country music. I said, This is the arena for this project. I went home that night and emailed [Jonas] and said, What if it’s an old country duo, who were big 20 years ago, in their careers and love, and now no one remembers them, and they don’t see each other anymore? Visually, it’s such a beautiful arena for a show, with cowboy boots and dresses! He came back and said, That’s spot on, let’s do it. That’s how we started. WS: How much of the arc did you have mapped at the outset, and how much evolved during the writing process? BORNEBUSCH: We had a vague arc. We knew that we wanted her brother to be the old manager. They asked him when they were kids, and then all of a sudden, he’s old and clueless, but blood is thicker than water. It was supposed to be six episodes. Covid came, and we had to put it in a drawer for almost a year. During that year, I rewrote the whole show down to ﬁve episodes and compressed the story. I woke up in the middle of the night and I emailed Jonas and said, This is the reason they 18 WORLD SCREEN 3/22

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are struggling. He doesn’t want to go back in time [with the reunion tour]. He doesn’t like who he was at that time. She needs to do something. She’s stuck in a small room. Either we try to live up, or we give up and divorce. That’s what this series is all about: Why he doesn’t want to go back, and why she needs to. Then it all fell into place. This is why we wrote the series.

“We wanted to create something about old love, not someone falling in love or in the middle of a divorce.” WS: How do you juggle those multiple hats of creator, writer, actor and director? BORNEBUSCH: It sounds like a lot! To be honest, sometimes it’s easier. I’ve tried to just write or just act or just direct. When you write your own scripts, you can see in front of you what you want. You can see the locations. I’m writing a script right now, and it’s almost like I’m speaking to myself while doing it. It’s so clear in my head, so it’s probably easier to go in and do it yourself than try to explain to someone what I want. I did another show recently that I directed for someone else. Even though I have a vision, she also has a vision. They’re not separate, but they’re different. So it sounds like it’s a lot to juggle. And time-wise, it is a lot. But when it comes to what you want and what you need, it’s sometimes easier. 3/22 WORLD SCREEN 19

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Murder in the Valleys By Kristin Brzoznowski

new series for Sky Crime, Murder in the Valleys explores an infamously brutal mass murder and a potential major miscarriage of justice in sleepy South Wales. All3Media International is bringing the fourpart crime doc, which tells the true story behind the biggest criminal investigation in Welsh history, to the global marketplace. From Five Mile Films, the series sheds new light on the Clydach murders, in which three generations of a family were killed in 1999. The murders and repercussions from the original investigation and subsequent trial still haunt the community 20 years on. Many believe that justice was not served by the initial conviction, and 20 WORLD SCREEN 3/22

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TV DRAMA

that David “Dai” Morris was sentenced and jailed for a crime he did not commit. Now, two new witnesses have come forward for the ﬁrst time, and an urgent, present-day reexamination of the case is underway by police. The new evidence has the potential to

“This has twists and turns that are unprecedented in true crime.” —Owen Phillips

throw the original verdict into doubt and implicate a different suspect, leading to the question: Could history be rewritten? Murder in the Valleys features an award-winning team behind the camera, including Owen Phillips, who won an Emmy for HBO’s Leaving Neverland. Tom Barrow, whose credits include 24 Hours in Police Custody and Louis Theroux: Life on the Edge, serves as director, with Nick Mirsky (The Dog House, Wonderland) as executive producer. “This has twists and turns that are unprecedented in true crime,” says Phillips, series producer. “This show will resonate because the story is so unbelievably tragic and fascinating,” adds Rachel Job, senior VP of non-scripted content at All3Media International. “Each episode has so many twists and turns. Also, the filmmaking is really top-level, and it will resonate beyond the traditional true-crime fan base because it’s at such a high level.” 3/22 WORLD SCREEN 21

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Cate Slater TVNZ s director of content at TVNZ, Cate Slater, together with her team, drives the performance of programs across TVNZ 1 and 2, DUKE and TVNZ OnDemand. The focus, guided by a viewer-led strategy, is very much on local content, with acquisitions serving as a way to bring Kiwi audiences something different. Slater tells World Screen about the changing nature of output deals and what she’s looking for from the international market.

WS: What’s guiding TVNZ’s drama strategy at present? By Kristin Brzoznowski SLATER: We’re a viewer-led organization, so our viewers guide what we commission and acquire. We look closely at what they’re watching, and how they are watching it, to deliver more of the dramas they love each and every day. Drama forms a key pillar of our content slate, but audience behavior is quickly evolving, and we’re ﬁnding more viewers are gravitating to watch drama online. Some drama is made to be binge-watched, and other drama (including soaps) still 22 WORLD SCREEN 3/22

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follows a daily or weekly release model suitable for linear viewing. As a broadcast TV and streaming service provider, we need to commission and acquire dramas that suit both distribution models to deliver a comprehensive offering that keeps people coming back. Securing a pipeline of international content is still important to us, but the nature of output deals has changed signiﬁcantly. We’re seeing more material made speciﬁcally for streaming and

“We’re working closely with our partners to get the volume and variety we need to sustain and grow our audiences.” more ﬂexibility around online rights. With Covid-19 impacting productions around the world and more direct-to-consumer offerings from major players, less of our traditional pipeline of international content is now available to buy. To meet this challenge, we’re working closely with our partners to get the volume and variety we need to sustain and grow our audiences, now and in the years to come. WS: How much of the drama slate comes from acquisitions? SLATER: Local drama is very important to us; it’s our point of difference when competing against the global streaming platforms available in our market. Local drama also resonates strongly with our viewers, typically outperforming international drama on air 3/22 WORLD SCREEN 23

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The Tourist, sold by All3Media International, is streaming on TVNZ OnDemand.

and online. However, we are constrained in the volume of local we’re able to produce due to the cost of production compared to the size of the market. International ﬁrst-run and library dramas are therefore critical to our slate. In particular, drama from the U.K., Australia and U.S. performs well in our market, particularly with streaming audiences. We’re pursuing a variety of acquisition deals with drama at their heart to feed our streaming service. WS: Are there fewer U.S. dramas than there have been historically? SLATER: Yes. Long-term, large-scale output deals of U.S. network programming historically formed the backbone of our TV schedule. Many of these same distributors are now going direct-to-consumer, so we need to provide a different offering. For us, that has meant an increased focus on local drama as well as ﬁnding drama acquisitions that provide something different and complementary. We have found that some U.S. distributors are reluctant to grant full utility of rights. Where this is the case, unfortunately, 24 WORLD SCREEN 3/22

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we have to walk away. Our viewers are consuming across platforms and in their own time. It no longer makes sense for us to secure content where the rights are restrictive or prescriptive. Some U.S. drama is very domestic-focused, too, and this has less relevance for international audiences. WS: What’s on your wish list for drama acquisitions? SLATER: For our channels, we’re looking for consistency of performance from season to season with programs that we can launch and then leave in a slot. Noisy, standout programs that can generate media buzz are also important, as our marketing and publicity teams can capitalize on global momentum to secure strong audiences in New Zealand. Ultimately, better lead times are what we’re looking for, which is a challenge in the Covid era. Drama is a competitive space, and adequate preparation and promotion give us the best chance to hook viewers into a new show.

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Global Agency’s The Game of My Destiny.

Destiny Awaits Global Agency’s Izzet Pinto talks about taking the classic melodrama The Game of My Destiny out to the international market. By Kristin Brzoznowski

classic melodrama, The Game of My Destiny tells the story of a mother whose world is turned upside down when her daughter is attacked by a neighbor, leaving them to rebuild their shattered lives. The series follows as the woman struggles with romance, betrayal and jealousy, and she must overcome a cruel destiny and ﬁnd happiness for her family. “The Game of My Destiny is Star TV’s highest-rated show this season,” says Izzet Pinto, founder and CEO of Global Agency, which is taking this series out to the international market. “There is 28 WORLD SCREEN 3/22

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very stiff competition on national channels this season, and this project is the one that pleased Star TV the most.” Pinto lists romanticism, drama and suspense as some of the show’s key selling points, as well as its “epic, complex and very well-constructed love stories with key elements of the traditional telenovela but updated for today’s viewers.” The series is rich with themes of love and revenge and is full of mystery and family secrets.

“When original stories in Turkey, good acting, great outdoor locations and music come together, the Turkish DNA emerges.” —Izzet Pinto Pinto points out that Turkish dramas have long engaged audiences and built up viewer loyalty with their strong stories, and The Game of My Destiny is perfectly in line. “When original stories in Turkey, good acting, great outdoor locations and music come together, the Turkish DNA emerges. One of the most important reasons why we have maintained our success for a long time is that there is no country rivaling Turkey in this sense. As Turkey’s advertising market grows, its [television] budgets are also growing. When you have a good, high budget, you can produce a high-quality project.” And this is what Global Agency is committed to bringing to international buyers with shows like The Game of My Destiny. 3/22 WORLD SCREEN 29

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In-Demand: Québec Creates Québec has a unique position in the global television market as the generator of Frenchand English-language media in North America, with productions that are both distinctive and highly exportable. Among its main assets are the variety and appeal of its dramas, comedies, documentaries, animation, children’s content and entertainment formats. In association with the Société de développement des entreprises culturelles (SODEC), the Québec cultural agency, World Screen is spotlighting this dynamic industry and its presence at MIPTV this year. Overseen by Québec’s Minister of Culture and Communication, SODEC promotes and supports the development of Québec’s cultural industry, at home and abroad. SODEC also coordinates umbrella operations and coproduction initiatives at international markets through the “Québec Creates” banner.

422 Commissioner: Télé-Québec Producer: Blachfilms Distributor: HG Distribution Description: (Kids fantasy/sci-fi, S1: 13x30 min., S2: 12x30 min., S3: TK) Five teenagers jump into a parallel universe with the hopes of finding a treasure with exceptional powers by completing eight tasks created by Gamma, a mysterious celestial being. Pitch Perfect: “Five friends find themselves transported into a secret passage to a mysterious world hiding a priceless treasure. Together, they thwart all danger that awaits, embarking on a treasure hunt that pushes them to their ultimate limit.” —Henry Gagnon, President Sales Contacts: Henry Gagnon; Andrea Staerke, Business Development.

A Criminal Affair (Une affaire criminelle) Commissioner: Crave (Bell Media) Producer: Sovimage Distributor: Encore Television-Distribution Description: (Drama, 8x45 min.) Catherine tries her best to exonerate her son, incarcerated for a murder he claims not to have committed. Pitch Perfect: “A fiercely addictive and absorbing series, A Criminal Affair will get viewers quickly hooked on the poignant story of a mother who will fight every inch of the way to have her son’s case reopened.” —Chrystine Girard, Head, International Distribution Sales Contacts: Chrystine Girard; Dominique Simard, Managing Director. 30 WORLD SCREEN 3/22

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AI, To Be Or Not To Be Commissioners: Radio-Canada, RDI, Explora Producer: Productions Magasin Général Distributor: HG Distribution Description: (Doc., 3x60 min.) We follow Canadian science journalist Matthieu Dugal in his quest to build his double, a digital being created with the help of artificial intelligence. Pitch Perfect: “Questions the limits of human beings in an era where machines are becoming more and more intelligent.” —Patrick Fauquembergue & Daniel Morin, Producers Sales Contacts: Patrick Fauquembergue, Daniel Morin, Henry Gagnon.

Audrey’s Back (Audrey est revenue) Commissioner: Club illico (Québecor Media) Producer: Pixcom Distributor: Beta Film Description: (Comedy/drama, 10x25 min.) Seventeen-yearold Audrey is found unconscious on the road of a small town in the middle of the night. Sixteen years later, she wakes up. Pitch Perfect: “A series full of hope about new chances in life, against all odds, and the unsuspected ripple effect it creates for a family.” —Nicola Merola, President & Executive Producer, Pixcom Sales Contacts: Nicola Merola; Oliver Bachert, EVP, International Sales & Acquisitions, Beta Film.

Aurora Teagarden Mysteries Commissioner: Hallmark Movies & Mysteries Producer: Muse Entertainment Enterprises Distributor: Muse Distribution International Description: (Mystery, 18x90 min.) Aurora “Roe” Teagarden is a crime buff who unexpectedly finds herself solving real-life murders in her small town. Pitch Perfect: “Based on best-selling crime novels, Aurora Teagarden Mysteries, as seen on Hallmark Movies & Mysteries, stars Candace Cameron Bure.” —Shawn Rosengarten, VP, Distribution Sales Contact: Shawn Rosengarten. 3/22 WORLD SCREEN 31

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The Cavaliers Commissioners: Unis TV, Club illico, Yoopa Producer: Trio Orange Distributor: Trio Orange is currently looking for a global distribution partner. Description: (Drama, 13x23 min.) A heartwarming drama about the trials and tribulations of a young girl with an all-consuming passion for horses. Pitch Perfect: “The Cavaliers is the story of a 14-year-old girl, an avid horseback rider, and her trusty equine companion. A tale of friendship, betrayal and secrets, but, above all, a story about courage.” —Julie Lavallée, Producer Sales Contact: Roselyne Brouillet, International Distribution & Business Development.

Dark Soul (Bête Noire) Commissioner: Séries Plus (Corus) Producer: Encore Television Distributor: Encore Television-Distribution Description: (Drama, 6x45 min.) Jeremy Tremblay walks into his high school with a semi-automatic rifle and shoots multiple students before killing himself. Pitch Perfect: “A powerful series that follows the quest of a family trying to understand what pushed one of them, a 16-year-old boy, to shoot some of his classmates and take his own life. What triggered this nightmare?” —Chrystine Girard, Head, International Distribution Sales Contacts: Chrystine Girard; Dominique Simard, Managing Director.

Dex and the Humanimals (Dex et les Humanimaux) Commissioner: Radio-Canada Producers: Epic Storyworlds, Loomi Animation Distributor: Epic Story Distribution Description: (Animation, 6x11 min.) Dex was raised in a lab by Iris, an evil AI, to be the ultimate weapon to subjugate the population of Chronopolis. When Dex discovers that he may have a family, an epic adventure begins. Pitch Perfect: “Dex and the Humanimals takes place in a colorful and positive light dystopian universe. It is a serialized show that presents deep and sophisticated stories in a futuristic universe offering an infinite amount of possibilities.” —Steve Couture, Executive Producer Sales Contacts: Steve Couture, Ken Faier, Christine Coté. 32 WORLD SCREEN 3/22

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How to Survive in the Wild (Manuel de la vie sauvage) Commissioner: Séries Plus (Corus) Producer: KOTV Distributor: KO Distribution Description: (Drama, 6x60 min.) Kevin settles in the city, where he makes his mark as the founder of a startup that promises to revolutionize grief by allowing users to converse with the dead. Pitch Perfect: “An ambitious young tech entrepreneur creates an app allowing users to speak to the deceased, hoping to change the way the world—and his own family—copes with grief, but he realizes working for the greater good may force him to get his hands dirty and perform a costly sacrifice.” —Barbara Vallant, Head, Sales & Acquisitions Sales Contacts: Barbara Vallant; Louis-Philippe Drolet, VP, General Director & Producer.

The Impostors Commissioner: Bell Media Producer: Just for Laughs Distributor: Just for Laughs Description: (Format, 13x45 min.) A new panel show where celebrity guests share amazing, personal stories. But what is “true” or “too good to be true”? Pitch Perfect: “In The Impostors, a brand-new panel show that delivers top ratings in Canada, three celebrities answer questions from the host and share never-before-told stories with a live audience. Who is going to be the audience-voted ‘best impostor’?” —Fred Joubaud, Director, Content & Strategic Partnerships Sales Contacts: Marina Di Pancrazio, Chief Content Revenue Officer; Fred Joubaud.

Just for Laughs Gags Commissioners: CBC, Bell Media Producer: Just for Laughs Distributor: Just for Laughs Description: (Comedy, S1-22: 381x30 min.) Unsuspecting people get roped into hilarious situations, concocted by the Just for Laughs Gags experts. Pitch Perfect: “Just for Laughs, the number one comedy brand, is proud to bring you brandnew episodes of Gags, the world’s top feel-good TV show that is currently airing in more than 200 territories.” —Fred Joubaud, Director, Content & Strategic Partnerships Sales Contacts: Marina Di Pancrazio, Chief Content Revenue Officer; Fred Joubaud. 3/22 WORLD SCREEN 33

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Love Bugs Commissioner: SRC (Société Radio-Canada) Producer: Avanti Groupe Distributor: Les Distributions Avanti Ciné Vidéo Description: (Comedy format, S1-7: 130x26 min.) Funny, modern, identifiable and addictive, Love Bugs is a scripted comedy format about a couple figuring out love and life in a unique modular format. Pitch Perfect: “Love Bugs is the most-adapted and best-selling scripted format in international TV history (according to The WIT), adapted in 29 countries with more to come. The format is unique, addictive and hilarious, with a low production cost and an incredible international track record.” —Arabelle Pouliot-Di Crescenzo, Head, International Distribution Sales Contacts: Arabelle Pouliot-Di Crescenzo, Monique Lamoureux.

Motel Paradis Commissioner: Club illico (Québecor Media) Producer: Zone3 Distributor: Zone3 Description: (Drama, 6x60 min.) Following a near-death experience, Jen is convinced that her 14year-old sister did not commit suicide. Determined to solve the mystery surrounding her sister’s disappearance, Jen returns to her hometown, accompanied by a police detective days away from retirement. Pitch Perfect: “Award-winning filmmaker Sophie Deraspe delivers a powerful auteur series. While keeping with the crime drama genre, Deraspe succeeds in pulling us into an ‘investigation of the human soul.’” —Mélanie Ratté, Senior Director, International Distribution & Business Development Sales Contact: Mélanie Ratté.

NOMADslow.tv Producer: NOMAD Industries Distributor: HG Distribution Description: (Meditative videos, 80 hrs.) A “stream of consciousness,” an endless flow of meditative videos inducing a psychological effect known as “soft fascination.” Pitch Perfect: “Hypnotizing and transcendent, NOMAD contemplates the beauty of our world, relaxing your mind and restoring your brain. The videos are soothing and uplifting, with poetic perspectives and impressionistic storytelling. The films intertwine to create a cohesive universe spanning beyond the globe and into the imaginary.” —Jason Rodi, Filmmaker Sales Contact: Jason Rodi. 34 WORLD SCREEN 3/22

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Occupation Double Commissioners: Noovo, noovo.ca Producer: Productions ToRoS Distributor: Productions ToRoS Description: (Reality, S1-15) Eligible singles of La Belle Province are brought to some of the most romantic locations around the globe. Occupation Double highlights the ups and downs of their quests for romance. It is the most-watched and the most-talked-about reality series in Québec. Pitch Perfect: “Occupation Double evolved into a dating show that tackles current social topics like cultural and sexual diversity, sparking important conversations among its viewers and beyond.” —Carine Sansregret, Director, International Business Development Sales Contact: Carine Sansregret.

Punch Club Commissioners: Z, Noovo, Crave (Bell Media) Producer: St Laurent TV International Description: (Comedy, 8x22 min.) Québec’s biggest improv players will go toe-and-toe every week for an epic tournament that has no rules and no mercy. Pitch Perfect: “Improv in street-fighting mode, and the effervescence of a rap show coupled with the excitement of a UFC match.” —Lou Bélanger, Producer Sales Contacts: Audrey Paquette, Marieme Ndiaye, Lou Bélanger.

Virage (Veer) Commissioner: Noovo (Bell Media) Producer: KOTV Distributor: KO Distribution Description: (Drama, 8x60 min.) Frédérique, a triple Olympic medalist in speed skating, retires. Faced with this void, she must learn to live without performing. The fall will be brutal. Pitch Perfect: “A three-time Olympic medalist in speed skating leaves her career and spouse, ending her perfect post-racing plan of family life. Feeling empty, she discovers that life isn’t a race with a controllable outcome.” —Barbara Vallant, Head, Sales & Acquisitions, & Marie-Hélène Lebeau-Taschereau, Scriptwriter, Senior Fiction Producer & Associate, KOTV Sales Contacts: Barbara Vallant; Louis-Philippe Drolet, VP, General Director & Producer. 3/22 WORLD SCREEN 35

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Who Was the Real Neanderthal? Commissioners: CBC, Toute l’Histoire, Cineflix Rights Producer: Ideacom International Distributor: Cineflix Rights Description: (Doc., 1x49 min.) Neanderthals have long been thought of as brutish and dim-witted. It’s been impossible to truly grasp who they were and how they lived—until now. Pitch Perfect: “Traveling back more than 400,000 years to reveal astonishing new discoveries, Who Was the Real Neanderthal? proves our prehistoric cousins were more like us than we ever imagined.” —Josette D. Normandeau, President & Executive Producer, Ideacom International Sales Contact: Josette D. Normandeau.

Woolly Woolly Commissioners: France TV, TVOkids, SRC, Knowledge Network with the support of the Canada Media Fund Producers: PVP Media, Normaal Distributors: FESTIVAAL Distribution, PVP Media Description: (CGI animation, 52x11 min.) Animated series that follows the adventures of a tight-knit community of woolly-teensy forest gnomes through an enchanted universe. Pitch Perfect: “Woolly Woolly is a tightly knit community of forest gnomes whose day-to-day is tinged with wacky obstacles and frenemies that they confront with courage and creativity. Their stories are fueled by two real kids’ massive imaginations, having a blast in their playroom.” —François Trudel, VP & Executive Producer, PVP Media Sales Contacts: Marc Dhrami, Normaal; François Trudel.

Written in the Stars Commissioner: Incendo Producers: Screentime New Zealand, Incendo Distributor: Incendo Description: (Romantic comedy, 1x90 min.) When her magazine approves a pitch about a skeptic’s take on love and horoscopes, a young woman teams up with an astrology guru. Pitch Perfect: “Filmed in stunning locations across New Zealand, the film encompasses a unique love story and setting while staying true to the core of a classic rom-com.” —Gavin Reardon, International Sales & Co-Productions Sales Contact: Gavin Reardon. 36 WORLD SCREEN 3/22

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WWW.TVKIDS.COM

MARCH 2022

TV Kids Festival Videos / In-Demand: Diversity & Inclusion, STEM/STEAM, Girl Power & Korean Animation

PLEASE DONATE TO THE TV KIDS UKRAINIAN FUND NOW.

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10 TV KIDS

CONTENTS M6’S PHILIPPE BONY The general manager of thematic TV channels at M6 Group and president of Gulli on the company’s winning combination of linear and digital platforms.

Ricardo Seguin Guise Publisher

DREAMWORKS ANIMATION’S PETER GAL The chief creative officer for television at DreamWorks Animation articulated the studio’s approach to developing content.

Anna Carugati Group Editorial Director

MATTEL’S FRED SOULIE The senior VP and general manager of Mattel Television on how the toy giant is expanding its content slate. STUDIO 100’S HANS BOURLON The CEO and co-founder of Studio 100 discussed the company’s 360-degree approach to building brands. WILDBRAIN’S JOSH SCHERBA The president of WildBrain weighed in on how the kids and family giant is evolving amid changes in the market. EONE FAMILY BRANDS’ OLIVIER DUMONT The president of eOne Family Brands on the approach to developing new IP and managing known franchises. NICK PARK The four-time Oscar winner, a co-director at Aardman, spoke about the enduring appeal of Wallace and Gromit and Shaun the Sheep. POCKET.WATCH’S CHRIS M. WILLIAMS The founder and CEO of pocket.watch explained the company’s approach to developing IP for a digital-first generation. BLUEY’S JOE BRUMM The creator shared the genesis of the hit Australian show. COMMON SENSE NETWORKS’ ERIC BERGER The company’s CEO outlined the strategy for the recently launched AVOD service Sensical. BEHIND THE SCENES OF ALMA’S WAY Sonia Manzano and Ellen Doherty offered an inside look at the creation of the new PBS KIDS show. THE KIDOODLE.TV WAY Brenda Bisner, the platform’s chief content officer, discussed working with programming partners, the Safe Streaming movement and more. ALICE’S WONDERLAND BAKERY’S CHELSEA BEYL The Emmy-nominated writer and producer took viewers behind the scenes of the Disney Junior series.

Mansha Daswani Editor Kristin Brzoznowski Executive Editor Chelsea Regan Managing Editor Jamie Stalcup Associate Editor David Diehl Production & Design Director Simon Weaver Online Director Dana Mattison Senior Sales & Marketing Manager Genovick Acevedo Sales & Marketing Coordinator Andrea Moreno Business Affairs Manager

HIT SEEKERS WarnerMedia Kids & Family’s Adina Pitt, KiKA’s Sebastian Debertin, M6 Group’s Maud Branly and CBC’s Marie McCann shared their acquisition strategies. ENGAGING KIDS TODAY WildBrain’s Deirdre Brennan and Guru Studio’s Frank Falcone in a candid conversation about the complexities of the kids’ business. THE MCFIRE FAMILY Pierre Sissmann, chairman and CEO of Cyber Group Studios, and Coralie Boitrelle-Laigle, head of content for M6 Group’s kids’ channels in France, gave a preview of the animated series. LITTLE LEARNERS Serious Kids’ Genevieve Dexter, Jetpack Distribution’s Dominic Gardiner, Dandelooo’s Emmanuèle Pétry-Sirvin and CAKE’s Daniel Bays on appealing to preschool audiences. FRENCH FLAIR Cyber Group Studios’ Raphaëlle Mathieu, TeamTO’s Corinne Kouper and Zephyr Animation’s David Sauerwein discussed the latest developments in French animation. THE THUNDERBIRD & ATOMIC SPIRIT Thunderbird Entertainment’s Jennifer Twiner McCarron, Matt Berkowitz and Richard Goldsmith on the company’s strategy to become a global studio. THAT’S A WRAP! TV Kids’ Anna Carugati offered up a closing message. IN-DEMAND: KOREAN ANIMATION Hot new series from South Korea. IN-DEMAND: DIVERSITY & INCLUSION Shows that put diversity and inclusion front and center. IN-DEMAND: GIRL POWER Series with powerful girl characters in the lead. IN-DEMAND: STEM/STEAM Properties that feature science, tech, engineering, arts and math curricula.

GET DAILY NEWS ON KIDS’ PROGRAMMING

Ricardo Seguin Guise President Anna Carugati Executive VP Mansha Daswani Associate Publisher & VP of Strategic Development TV Kids ©2022 WSN INC. 1123 Broadway, #1207 New York, NY 10010 Phone: (212) 924-7620 Fax: (212) 924-6940 Website: www.tvkids.com

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Nefertine on the Nile

Cyber Group Studios Nefertine on the Nile / Gigantosaurus / 50/50 Heroes Leading Cyber Group Studios’ highlights, Nefertine on the Nile is an adaptation of a best-selling book series, co-produced with Graphilm Entertainment in collaboration with Rai Ragazzi. The ﬁrst ten episodes of 50/50 Heroes are available from Cyber Group, along with Gigantosaurus, which is in production on its third season, and the animated feature The Case. “They all are, in their special way, feel-good programs or shows with meaning in addition to having great storytelling and animated style,” says Raphaëlle Mathieu, senior VP of sales, new media and acquisitions.

“One of our aspirations as a provider of content is to come to the market with a wide diversity of content to be able to satisfy most of our clients’ needs.” —Raphaëlle Mathieu

Kidoodle.TV Safe Streaming Since 2012, Kidoodle.TV has been leading the way in the AVOD space for kids by providing a Safe Streaming offering with age-appropriate content. The service boasts more than 30,000 episodes, with a weekly release schedule that debuts 10 to 20 new shows. Its programming is handpicked and human-vetted. “Every day, there is reinforcement in the press about the dangers that children face online, further elevating the need for the important work we do to keep kids Safe Streaming,” says Brenda Bisner, chief content officer at Kidoodle.TV.

“The AVOD space has been growing signiﬁcantly, and Kidoodle.TV has a major role to play in that happening.” —Brenda Bisner

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TV KIDS

Mattel He-Man and the Masters of the Universe / Deepa & Anoop / Thomas & Friends: All Engines Go Earlier this month, He-Man and the Masters of the Universe season two launched on Netflix. Meanwhile, Deepa & Anoop, which marks the first Mattel Television project based on all-new IP, is about a 7-year-old at her Indian family’s bed-andbreakfast. “Deepa & Anoop will give children all over the world the opportunity to experience South Asian culture in their very own homes on Netflix,” says Frederic Soulie, senior VP and general manager of Mattel Television. There is also a new season of Thomas & Friends: All Engines Go.

Deepa & Anoop

“The ethos of each of our brands is threaded throughout each piece of content we produce.” —Frederic Soulie

NBCUniversal Global Distribution Dragons: The Nine Realms / Take Note / Gabby’s Dollhouse Marking the next chapter in the DreamWorks Animation franchise, Dragons: The Nine Realms is a highlight of the NBCUniversal Global Distribution slate. It “has the same adventure and heart as the How to Train Your Dragon ﬁlms that fans know and love, but for the ﬁrst time, it’s set in modern times,” says Chloe Van den Berg, senior VP, head of kids and family entertainment at NBCUniversal Global Distribution. Further highlights include Take Note, a Peacock and Sky co-production, and Gabby’s Dollhouse, a mixedmedia series for preschoolers.

Take Note

“Our big, new focus is on live action.” —Chloe Van den Berg

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14 TV KIDS

TV Kids Pioneer Award K

PHILIPPE BO

Philippe Bony, general manager of thematic TV channels at M6 Group and president of Gulli, received the TV Kids Pioneer Award after speaking to delegates about the company’s winning combination of linear and digital platforms.

Read the recap here.

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TV KIDS

rd Keynote: M6’s

BONY

Now when you are launching a new show and start the first sentence on a white page, you know that you are working for the next generation. You need to be able to anticipate their behaviors, their tastes, their interests, which are changing so quickly. You know [it will be] several years before you can broadcast the show. So it is really exciting to work for children and try to help them discover this new world.

”

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16 TV KIDS

Keynote: DreamWorks A

PETER GAL

As the chief creative officer for television at DreamWorks Animation, Peter Gal discussed the studio’s approach to developing resonant, compelling content for Netflix, Apple TV+, Peacock, Prime Video, Hulu and other platforms worldwide. Stay tuned after Gal’s keynote for a sneak peek at a new show from NBCUniversal Global Distribution.

Read the recap here.

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ks Animation’s

We’re always looking for great partnerships globally. It’s more important than ever as a way to get top-quality work done. There’s more animation happening than ever. The market for talent in Los Angeles, as elsewhere, has gotten so competitive. We like to work with the best artists, wherever we can find them, and with the best studios. That has led to incredible co-production opportunities.

”

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18 TV KIDS

Keynote: Mattel’s

FRED SOULIE

Fred Soulie, senior VP and general manager of Mattel Television, discussed how the toy giant is expanding its content slate ahead of a screening of the brand-new Thomas & Friends: All Engines Go.

Read the recap here.

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TV KIDS

LIE 2021 was the biggest year on record for Mattel and Mattel Television on the content side. We debuted more than nine series and specials based on our iconic IPs. What we saw in 2021 were the results of the seeds we planted a couple of years prior. We have one of the largest libraries of IP at Mattel. Creating compelling content takes time. But we’ve been very busy the last few years, focused on becoming a highperforming, IP-driven toy company. 2022 will be even bigger.

”

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20 TV KIDS

Keynote: Studio 100’s

HANS BOURL

Studio 100, led by CEO and co-founder Hans Bourlon, operates across all segments of the kids’ business, from animation studios and a distribution arm to theme parks, TV channels and a successful L&M operation.

Read the recap here.

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RLON More than 3.5 million people every year visit our theme parks. In Poland, we’re creating two new theme parks. We’re looking at other territories. All are [connected to] our TV characters. We are convinced that Covid will be something that passes one day. That’s why we are still trying to expand and grow in this sector. Our group is unique in that we combine the production of live-action and animated series with the leisure business like theater shows and theme parks.

”

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22 TV KIDS

Keynote: WildBrain’s

JOSH SCHERB

Josh Scherba, the president of WildBrain, weighed in on how the kids and family giant is evolving amid changes in the market. Following the keynote conversation, stay tuned to watch episodes of Strawberry Shortcake: Berry in the Big City.

Read the recap here.

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TV KIDS

ERBA The global streamers are focused on global deals, where they are in most cases funding the entire production. It’s been a good [model] for the industry in a lot of ways. On the other hand, it does reduce the opportunities you have for distribution. We try to balance our slate between fully funded global streaming series along with series we put together through co-productions and partnerships.

”

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24 TV KIDS

Keynote: eOne’s

OLIVIER DUM

Olivier Dumont, president of eOne Family Brands, discussed the unit’s approach to developing new IP and managing known franchises from the extensive Hasbro portfolio.

Read the recap here.

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UMONT Our slate covers the full spectrum of demographics and genders, always with a strong commercial angle to them. We’re looking to develop properties with significant licensing and merchandising potential.

”

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26 TV KIDS

Creative Keynote: Aardma

NICK PARK

Four-time Oscar winner Nick Park, a co-director at Aardman, spoke about his journey as an animator and the enduring appeal of Wallace and Gromit and Shaun the Sheep.

Read the recap here.

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dman’s

The good animators do have an actor deep down inside them. The best animators tend to be good actors. Not all—a lot are very shy people! I do like getting in front of the video camera and acting out what I’m after. I often do that as a way of directing. I will become Gromit. It’s a good way of conveying exactly what you want to the animators.

”

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28 TV KIDS

Keynote: pocket.watch’s

CHRIS M. WIL

Chris M. Williams, the founder and CEO of pocket.watch, discussed the company’s approach to developing IP for a digital-first generation.

Read the recap here.

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ch’s

WILLIAMS We’ve had a tremendous amount of success taking YouTube content, repackaging it, reformatting it, upscaling it to more premium-feeling content, and then distributing it broadly across over 40 different platforms in 80 countries. Everywhere we put the content, it performs, always.

”

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30 TV KIDS

Creative Keynote: Bluey’s

JOE BRUMM

Joe Brumm, the creator of the global megahit preschool show Bluey, discussed the genesis of the Australian series and why it resonates so broadly with kids and parents alike.

Read the recap here.

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uey’s

Most of the stories are emotional arcs. I steer away from too much moralizing or teaching abstract things. It’s quite relatable because the little emotional lessons the kids learn are usually something you still use as an adult. When I can get a script right, it’s the little kid learning the seed of that thing, but we’re also seeing how the same emotional pattern still plays out 40 years later when you’re the parent.

”

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32 TV KIDS

Keynote: Common Sense

ERIC BERGER

Eric Berger, the CEO of Common Sense Networks, outlined the strategy for the recently launched AVOD service Sensical.

Read the recap here.

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ense Networks’

GER

We built the service from the ground up to meet kids where they are. It’s the shortform, creator-driven content that they’ve demonstrated they love. It’s learning-based. It’s ageappropriate. And it’s grounded from a content level to connect with the changing demographics you see in the market. We want the content we license and program to be a reflection [of diverse audiences], so kids can see themselves and others.

”

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34 TV KIDS

Behind the Scenes of

ALMA’S WAY

Sonia Manzano, best known for her long run on Sesame Street as Maria, and Ellen Doherty, the chief creative officer at Fred Rogers Productions, offered an inside look at the creation of the new PBS KIDS show Alma’s Way.

Read the recap here.

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WAY I want the legacy of Alma’s Way to be: After that show aired, there were a million shows about diverse people in the U.S. And not just people of color policing the content, but actually people of color creating the content.

”

—Sonia Manzano

Sonia said, ‘I want kids to know they have a mind and can use it.’ That was a clear call to action for how to make this show and what we wanted to achieve with it.

”

—Ellen Doherty

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36 TV KIDS

The

KIDOODLE.TV

Brenda Bisner, the chief content officer at Kidoodle.TV, discussed working with programming partners, the Safe Streaming movement and more.

Read the recap here.

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TV KIDS

TV WAY As we look at the AVOD landscape, there is a need for a focus on differentiation, value-add and, of course, partnerships that are supportive. The focus for us is to keep growing and supporting families and kids globally while elevating our relevance in the AVOD space with our partnerships and brands.

”

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38 TV KIDS

Creative Keynote: Alice’s W

CHELSEA BE

Emmy-nominated writer and producer Chelsea Beyl took TV Kids Festival viewers behind the scenes of the brand-new Disney Junior series Alice’s Wonderland Bakery.

Read the recap here.

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e’s Wonderland Bakery’s

BEYL

Our show is about the power of food. Alice is a baker. She always says, ‘Where there’s a whisk, there’s a way! There’s a recipe for anything!’ Food can just bring a smile to someone’s face. Sometimes, all you have to do is sit down and share a meal with someone and a friendship forms. That is a huge theme of the show. Alice takes food and brings people together and makes friends. Also, food is a way to express yourself, to be creative, which is another core theme we wanted to express.

”

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The TV KIDS SUMMER FESTIVAL is a four-day must-attend virtual event taking place a week prior to Annecy/MIFA and a month before Kidscreen Summit. Taking place from June 7 to 10, 2022, the TV KIDS SUMMER FESTIVAL will feature keynotes and panels with leading executives and creatives discussing the major trends in the children’s programming business. It will be streamed live and available on-demand for two months on TVKidsSummerFestival.com. For sponsorship opportunities, please contact Ricardo Guise at rguise@worldscreen.com or Dana Mattison at dmattison@worldscreen.com.

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HIT SEEKERS

WarnerMedia Kids & Family’s Adina Pitt, KiKA’s Sebastian Debertin, M6 Group’s Maud Branly and CBC’s Marie McCann shared their strategies for finding the best properties the international market has to offer.

Read the recap here.

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We’re looking at specials, snackable series, serialized series. The portfolio of demos and genres we’re looking for has expanded.

”

–Adina Pitt

We use acquisitions strategically to bolster our offering, often to look for international brands that will attract audiences.

”

—Marie McCann

In the last year, we acquired more nonlinear rights. We started to make acquisitions for exclusive SVOD rights. That’s a big change.

”

—Maud Branly

Acquisitions enrich the view of our audience into this wonderful world.

”

—Sebastian Debertin

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Engaging Kids

TODAY

Deirdre Brennan, COO of WildBrain, and Frank Falcone, president and executive creative director at Guru Studio, participated in a candid conversation about navigating the complexities of the kids’ business today.

Read the recap here.

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If someone believes in it for a children’s audience, that’s going to be the greatest thing. It’s also: What do our clients want? What is the capability of production? What’s the financial viability? What’s the platform fit? Our role is to bring all of those factors into those decisions about what goes into development. It’s creativity as a business as well as that spark of, what is going to make a child smile?

”

–Deirdre Brennan

There’s always a constant push and pull between what we know works for children—and that can tend toward the pedantic and be obvious and insult a child’s intelligence—and moving toward something new. That involves risk, and it’s much harder to bring to market.

”

—Frank Falcone

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46 TV KIDS

Panel & Premiere:

THE MCFIRE

Pierre Sissmann, chairman and CEO of Cyber Group Studios, and Coralie Boitrelle-Laigle, head of content for M6 Group’s kids’ channels in France, gave a behind-the-scenes look at the animated series The McFire Family ahead of the premiere of the trailer for the show.

Read the recap here.

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RE FAMILY It has a lot of diversity. It’s a mixed family. And the kids are real kids. It’s a show that has a lot of comedy. Siblings arguing with each other, playing tricks on their parents. It’s all very friendly and very fun to watch.

”

—Pierre Sissmann

For a children’s channel, a fireman program is a must-have, and now we have ours. We are so proud of it. We would like to have a good balance between The Incredibles and a sitcom, the comedy and the real adventures. A family of firefighters is perfect for this.

”

–Coralie Boitrelle-Laigle

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48 TV KIDS

LITTLE LEARN

Genevieve Dexter, founder and CEO of Serious Kids and Eye Present; Jetpack Distribution CEO Dominic Gardiner; Emmanuèle PétrySirvin, partner and producer at Dandelooo; and Daniel Bays, VP of development at CAKE, discussed the keys to appealing to preschool audiences.

Read the recap here.

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RNERS If you want your brand to succeed in the long term, you’ve got to be thinking about how it can work in different spaces.

”

—Dominic Gardiner

If [an idea] has a beating heart, it shows, and it’ll give it a strong foundation.

”

—Genevieve Dexter

The whole world has realized how important it is for the eyeballs to not just waste their time and be purely entertained.

”

—Emmanuèle Pétry-Sirvin

Kids nowadays are presented with a wall of content. It’s important to be visually distinctive.

”

–Daniel Bays

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50 TV KIDS

French

FLAIR

Raphaëlle Mathieu, senior VP of sales, acquisitions and new media at Cyber Group Studios; Corinne Kouper, senior VP of development and production, co-founder and executive producer at TeamTO; and David Sauerwein, producer and co-owner of Zephyr Animation, APC Kids’ production arm, discussed the latest developments in French animation.

Read the recap here.

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The models are evolving. There is cocommissioning between platforms and television. There is the model of global co-production. And there are the orders [for originals] from platforms. You want to live on creating IPs, owning IP.

”

–Raphaëlle Mathieu

We’ve had the tax credits and other tools to help us reinforce ourselves. In the last ten years, we have seen a huge increase in the number of talents, technicians and studios. We have a pool of dynamic producers. And it’s very efficient. There is no country doing the same kind of things the way we do.

”

–Corinne Kouper

People abroad think [France is] a haven of subsidies and tax credits, but it’s much more than that. Between the schools and the amazing studios—it’s an amazing ecosystem.

”

–David Sauerwein

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52 TV KIDS

The Thunderbird &

ATOMIC SPIR

Thunderbird Entertainment’s Jennifer Twiner McCarron, CEO; Matt Berkowitz, president and chief creative officer; and Richard Goldsmith, president of global distribution and consumer products, shared details on the company’s strategy to become a global studio.

Read the recap here.

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IRIT

We felt we were mature enough in terms of working on content that it was time to switch over and get into both revenue streams.

”

–Matt Berkowitz

There’s a huge appetite at the subscription platforms for highend series. At the same time, you have the new AVOD platforms coming up. Lastly, the traditional television networks all have to compete. Everybody needs content, more than ever. We think this boom will continue.

”

—Richard Goldsmith

One of the differentiators for us is making sure that content is diverse and inclusive. Our studio was awarded most diverse and inclusive company in British Columbia this year.

”

—Jennifer Twiner McCarron

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54 TV KIDS

That’s

A WRAP!

Anna Carugati, our group editorial director, offered up a closing message and checked in with a pair of delightful young ones in the extended TV Kids family about what they’re watching!

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TV KIDS

Thanks for tuning in! Join us for the TV Kids Summer Festival from June 7 to 10. More details here.

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56 TV KIDS

In-Demand: Korean Animatio Working with the Korea Creative Content Agency (KOCCA), TV Kids is putting the spotlight on the Korean animation business.

OYOYO Producer: Aurora World Corp. Distributor: Aurora World Corp. Description: (Kids 6-9 K-pop/cats/idols/fashion/school, 52x11 min.) Fifty percent kittens, 50 percent harmony, 100 percent adorable. Pitch Perfect: OYOYO takes its viewers on a journey through the ups and downs of becoming a celebrity through the lens of relatable (and adorable) characters. The story follows the members of the girl group OYOYO as they chase their dreams of becoming pop stars in the entertainmentcentric world of Catmia. Sales Contacts: Albert Lee, Celine Ahn.

Super 10 Commissioner: Young Toys Producers: Young Toys, Winsing Distributor: Young Toys Description: (Kids/boys action/adventure/fantasy, 104x11 min.) A fight through time and space to protect the Super Stone fragments and save the world. Pitch Perfect: Historical background, time travel and camaraderie. Sales Contact: Yohan Kim.

Dinosally Producer: Mostapes Distributor: Mostapes Description: (Preschool, 78x5 min.) In Dino Town, everything is awesome! A pink young dinosaur named Sally goes on adventures every day in Dino Town with her friends. Pitch Perfect: A peppy, plucky dinosaur named Sally and her besties, Blambi and Tibo, see an exciting opportunity for fun in Dino Town and Dino School. Sally is roaring fun whether in class or out on a field trip. Spectacular things will happen if she has friends to stomp along with! Sales Contact: Lucy Park.

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mation Virtual Guardians Commissioners: KBS, SBA, SK Broadband Producers: LUX Studio, Bamhaneul Studio, Pixtrend Distributor: Pixtrend Description: (Kids 7-11 action/adventure, 26x11 min.) Doctor Gang, the developer of the Gaia World, selected five genius boys and girls and a clever puppy as the so-called “Guardians” to defend against the threat of the AI. Will they be able to win the virtual battle with the AI? Pitch Perfect: Virtual Guardians need to save the world from the AI, which calls itself God reigning over mankind, dominates the virtual world and eventually attempts to expand its reach to the reality of mankind! Sales Contacts: Do Young Yim, Jane Lee.

Tomon Car Commissioners: MBC, Tooniverse, JEI, Bravokids, Btv, KT, U plus, YouTube, Wavve, Watcha, TV Chosun, JTBC, MBN Producers: Studio Gale, CJ ENM, YUJIN Media Distributor: Studio Gale Description: (Kids edutainment, 60x3 min.) Characters full of diverse personalities that reflect the trend of global automobile toys. Pitch Perfect: Characters designed based on toy cars that children of ages 3 to 5 are attracted to. An equal ratio between genders is intended to conform to trends in preschool content. Sales Contact: Tom Yoo.

Tayo, the Little Bus 6 Commissioner: Iconix Producer: Iconix Distributor: Iconix Description: (Preschool, 26x11 min.) Tayo and the other city buses live together in a home that has been refurnished. What else will happen in the second-floor garage? Pitch Perfect: Tayo, the Little Bus is a South Korean animation series, depicting the stories of a variety of transportation characters living in harmony. The series deals with core values such as friendship, adherence to traffic rules, respect and consideration for others. Sales Contacts: Jungeun Kim, Sunghee Park.

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58 TV KIDS

In-Demand: Diversity & Inclusion

Scream Street Commissioners: CBBC, ZDF Enterprises Produced By: Coolabi Productions, Factory, Nau Productions, Porcelain Pig Television Distributor: ZDF Enterprises (worldwide rights outside CBBC territory) Description: (Kids 6-10, 78x11 min. & 1x22 min. Christmas special) Scream Street is a fast-paced, stylish, comedy-horror extravaganza, based on the hit book series by Tommy Donbavand, following Luke Watson: a regular teen— apart from the werewolf gene! Pitch Perfect: With plenty of action as well as sharp and witty dialogue, the series captures the challenges of teen friendship groups. A recurring narrative is the importance of being who you are, but the themes and messages are delivered with plenty of humor, wit—and some kick-ass moves too! Slot Winner: Following the successful launch on CBBC (U.K.), this series is also a ratings winner wherever it has been broadcast across Latin America, Europe and Australia. Sales Contact: Peter Lang, VP ZDFE.junior.

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Big Blue Commissioners: CBC, SRC Produced By: Guru Studio Distributor: Worldwide content and L&M rights from Guru Studio. Description: (Kids 5-9 comedy, 52x11 min.) Siblings Lettie and Lemo lead their quirky submarine crew to solve the ocean’s mysteries and find the origins of a new magical recruit named Bacon Berry. Pitch Perfect: Big Blue drops young viewers deep into a wacky world of comic adventure, while helping to redefine what a family means. The series underscores the timely message of how caring for our planet and each other is the most important thing of all. Slot Winner: Big Blue is coming off an incredible launch on CBC Kids, SRC and Nicktoons (U.K.). Soon to launch are ABC (Australia), EBS (South Korea), NRK (Norway) and Boing (France, Africa and Israel). The series is created by Ghanaian Canadian Gyimah Gariba, who was praised by Forbes magazine as one of 15 Young African Creatives Rebranding Africa. Sales Contacts: L&M: Jonathan Abraham, VP, Sales & Business Development; Content: Corey Caplan, Director, International Sales.

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60 TV KIDS

In-Demand: Diversity & Inclusion

FriendZSpace Produced By: T&B Media Global, Flying Bark Productions Distributor: Studio 100 Media has all rights worldwide, excluding Thailand, Australia and New Zealand. Description: (Kids 5-9 comedy adventure, 52x11 min.) Meet three best friends, Alice, Leo and Kim—seemingly regular human kids, but behind their normal facade, they are risk-taking, deep-space friend makers! Each episode follows the three kids as they jet into space in their unpredictable star cruiser, “The Dart.” Accompanied by BotDog, their mission is simple and wonderfully weird: locate planets, find alien kids, introduce themselves and make friends. Pitch Perfect: “The idea of FriendZSpace is: Different is good! The core messages are about friendship, inclusion and welcoming diversity with open arms. The goal with this series is to create a rich immersive world of fresh characters for a universal community of kids.” —Dorian Bühr, Head, Global Distribution Slot Winner: International/Australian TV premiere on ABC Kids. Available on iView from January 25, 2022, daily (episodes 1-20). Sales Contacts: Dorian Bühr, Tanja Aichberger-Schaetzle, Fabrice Laventure.

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Tilly, The Power Within Produced By: DeAPlaneta Entertainment, Lion Forge Animation, MOBO Digital Factory Distributor: DeAPlaneta Entertainment manages the series’ worldwide rights, excluding the U.S. and Canada, which are managed by Lion Forge Animation. Description: (Bridge 4-7 adventure/emotional intelligence, 52x11 min.) With the help of Tilly, their power within, 6-year-old stepsiblings Gem and Joe learn to face the challenges that come with exploring the world around them. Pitch Perfect: Stepsiblings Gem and Joe are discovering the world, facing new challenges every day. Tilly is a soft plush that comes to life to help the children find confidence in unfamiliar situations. The show celebrates diversity through inclusive storytelling that embraces building new habits while celebrating customs and traditions. Created by award-winning writer Lina Foti, an executive producer at Lion Forge. Sales Contacts: Judit Foz, Lucia Vismara.

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62 TV KIDS

In-Demand: Diversity & Inclusion

Li’l Doc Produced By: GALA Prod Distributor: All rights available from CBC & Radio-Canada Distribution. Description: (Kids 6-9 edutainment, 52x2.5 min.) Li’l Doc seeks to demystify and de-dramatize, in a humorous way, a whole range of medical topics that children may encounter. The episodes feature Li’l Doc, an empathetic female doctor and friend to kids, who explains diseases and their symptoms, and her funny and lovable assistant, Li’l Munchkin, a hypochondriac chameleon! Pitch Perfect: We at CBC/SRC Distribution are so proud to represent Li’l Doc. This series keeps traveling around the world and continues to be a top performer. It is entertaining, inclusive, diverse and delivers humor and topics that matter to kids, especially during Covid-19. Slot Winner: The series has performed well on Hopster, Canal+, YLE, TVP and ERR, among others. Sales Contacts: Mia Desroches, Sandrine Pechels de Saint Sardos.

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64 TV KIDS

In-Demand: Girl Power

Heirs of the Night Commissioners: NRK, AVROTROS, NDR, ZDF Enterprises Produced By: Lemming Film, Hamster Film, Maze Pictures, Maipo Film, ZDF Enterprises Distributor: ZDF Enterprises worldwide, excluding co-pro partners’ territories. Description: (Kids 10+/family, 26x26 min.) Set in 1889, tells the story of the five remaining vampire clans in Europe and their young ones, “the Heirs.” In their midst is Alisa, 14, who has the power to choose between eternal life as a vampire or for all vampires to become humans once again. Pitch Perfect: The never-ending clan wars and the threat of vampire hunters have forced the vampires to retreat into isolation to protect their heirs. They realize that they need to come out of hiding and unite their powers if they want to survive. An epic adventure for tweens, teens and families, filmed on location all over Europe. This is a fantastical coming-of-age saga with international appeal, an incredible cinematographic look and outstanding production values. Sales Contacts: Arne Lohmann, VP ZDFE.junior; Katharina Pietzsch, Director ZDFE.junior; Jan-Frederik Maul, Director ZDFE.junior; Marei Bruckmann, Director ZDFE.junior.

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Glowbies Commissioner: Developed and acquired by CBC Kids. Produced By: Gallus Entertainment Distributor: Worldwide rights available except Canada from CBC & Radio-Canada Distribution. Description: (Preschool comedy, 38x12.5 min.) Like any preschoolers, Jelly, Randy, Alby and Poppy go through emotions that light them up bright. It is OK to show your emotions when having fun, facing problems, or being sad or frustrated. Even though Jelly, Randy, Alby and Poppy’s personalities are very different, they always remain the best of friends, no matter what the situation or conflict is. Pitch Perfect: Jelly is the unofficial leader of the gang. She plays the big sister to Poppy, Alby and Randy, taking on a protective role. Jelly is the mechanicalminded one willing to attempt to fix things and has the ideas. Jelly is also the sports lover of the group, while Poppy is a strong-minded, straight-talking, genuinely talented girl with a desire to do things. Girl power all over! Slot Winner: CBC Kids and CBC Gem Sales Contacts: Mia Desroches, Sandrine Pechels de Saint Sardos.

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66 TV KIDS

In-Demand: Girl Power

Gabby’s Dollhouse Commissioners: Netflix, NBCUniversal Global Distribution Produced By: DreamWorks Animation Distributor: NBCUniversal Global Distribution is offering up linear rights with catch-up VOD. Description: (Kids 3-6 animation/live action, S1: 25x30 min., S2: 15x30 min.) Join Gabby in her fantastical animated world full of adventure and adorable cat friends. Pitch Perfect: Gabby takes us on magical adventures where we’ll learn, laugh and play alongside her adorable kitty friends. The series embraces a unique growth mindset curriculum encouraging cognitive skill development, and Gabby’s positivity and determination make her an incredible, strong role model for boys and girls. Slot Winner: 327 million-plus Netflix U.S. streams since launch; number one global kids’ series (during season one and two launches); top ten kids’ show in 47 countries; 370 million-plus global YouTube content views. Sales Contact: Chloe Van den Berg, SVP, Head, Kids & Family Entertainment, NBCUniversal Global Distribution.

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Girls of Olympus Commissioner: RAI for RaiPlay and Rai Gulp Produced By: The Animation Band Distributor: Serious Kids represents all rights available outside of Italianspeaking markets. Description: (Kids 8-12 fantasy adventure, 26x24 min.) Three high school girls discover their true identities as reincarnations of Athena, Aphrodite and Artemis. Embracing their supernatural talents, they move between reality and fantasy worlds. Fighting mythological creatures and maintaining school grades, they divert adult suspicions and go after Ares, the God of War. Based on the books by Elena Kedros. Pitch Perfect: The data so far suggests an interesting split of 65 percent girls and 35 percent boys, with the most successful age group being kids aged 8 to 14, followed by 4- to 7-year-olds. Girls of Olympus appeals to a wide age group and would therefore be a very appealing proposition for our partners. Slot Winner: Broadcast daily three times a day, at 8:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. Sales Contact: sales@seriouskids.com

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68 TV KIDS

In-Demand: STEM/STEAM

Earth to Luna! Commissioner: Discovery Kids Produced By: Pinguim Content Distributor: Monster Entertainment Description: (Kids 3-6 educational, S1-7: 182x26 min.) Luna is a 6-yearold girl who is passionate about one thing: science! For Luna, the Earth is a giant laboratory she explores with energy and enthusiasm. Pitch Perfect: Earth to Luna! is a series that uses boundless humor and unforgettable characters to explore the world around us! There is nothing that Luna and her friends won’t do or imagine to answer their scientific questions. Every episode is based around the investigation of a natural phenomenon, presented in a simple manner that is easy to follow. This is the perfect tool to help younger viewers nurture their curiosity, and it encourages them to think creatively about things they encounter every day. Slot Winner: Broadcast in 120 countries. Sales highlights include Sky, Discovery Kids, Kids Central, RTHK, Česká televize, TG4, Minika and Hopster. Sales Contacts: Andrew Fitzpatrick, Ania Rozenszprung-Clinton, Ben Murphy.

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Space Nova Commissioners: Super RTL, ABC ME, 9Network Produced By: SLR Productions Distributor: ZDF Enterprises worldwide, excluding Australia and New Zealand. Description: (Kids 6-10, 26x24 min.) Set in 2162, it stars tween siblings Jet and Adelaide, who live not-so-ordinary lives on an international space station with their astronaut parents and schoolmates. Pitch Perfect: Space and understanding Earth’s place in the universe are major areas in the science education curriculum. The episodes in Space Nova use real science throughout the series that can be used as educational tools to discuss a scientific concept, aspects of space exploration, aeronautical technology we need to get us there and the astrophysics related to space itself. We explore ideas of alien planets and potential alien life as we take real science and expand into new ideas. Sales Contacts: Arne Lohmann, VP ZDFE.junior; Katharina Pietzsch, Director ZDFE.junior; Jan-Frederik Maul, Director ZDFE.junior; Marei Bruckmann, Director ZDFE.junior.

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In-Demand: STEM/STEAM

That’s Cool! Commissioner: Radio-Canada Produced By: Toast Studio Distributor: Worldwide rights are available from CBC & Radio-Canada Distribution. Description: (Kids 6-9 edutainment, 120x3 min.) Does the human body really contain gold? Can eating spinach truly make us stronger? A series of edutainment capsules, That’s Cool! asks questions like these and answers them in a straightforward and entertaining way. Astonishing but true facts are analyzed and secrets of the animal world revealed, using a simple and effective format that is both engaging and amusing. Pitch Perfect: This series is traveling so well! The audience is learning with fun and amazing facts. With a STEAM curriculum for each episode, the 6- to 9-year-olds are engaged and excited. The series is effective at getting their attention. Slot Winner: Broadcast partners include TF1, Da Vinci Kids, Hopster, ERR, EBS, TV5 and more. Sales Contacts: Mia Desroches, Sandrine Pechels de Saint Sardos.

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Polkaroo Counts! Commissioner: TVOkids Produced By: GAPC Entertainment Distributor: All digital and TV rights, excluding Canada, from Distribution360. Description: (Preschool 2-5, 30x2.5 min.) A fun live-action series that supports numeracy learning and foundational math concepts. Along with their kangaroo friend, Polkaroo, preschoolers quickly see how their day-to-day activities involve counting and how learning can be fun. Pitch Perfect: “The series captures the important notion that when it comes to mathematics, play is the engine of learning. Polkaroo Counts! was developed with an early math education specialist and uses tangible materials to teach children to think about numbers and how they are made. Featuring a diverse local cast of kids learning for the first time, each 2.5-minute episode incorporates easy-to-understand language and explains relatable mistakes, encouraging viewers to reach new milestones in math learning.” —Diane Rankin, SVP, Rights, Distribution360 Sales Contacts: Diane Rankin, SVP, Rights; Smiljka Baljozovic, Director, Sales; Joanna Rowley, Sales Consultant.

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In-Demand: STEM/STEAM

Numberblocks Commissioner: CBeebies Produced By: Alphablocks, Blue Zoo Animation Studio Distributor: Aardman Animations globally, except North America, China, the U.K., France and Germany and global SVOD, which Blue Zoo Rights represent. Description: (Preschool edutainment, S1-4: 120x5 min. & 1x20 min., 3x10 min. specials) BAFTA-winning series engages children with songs and silliness while helping them understand numbers by visually making sense of how they work. Pitch Perfect: Numberblocks celebrates numbers and learning, helping children master key math skills with every adventure. It’s a story about a group of friends who can always count on each other but, most importantly, Numberblocks is about having fun with numbers! Slot Winner: Numberblocks is a global series airing on multiple channels and platforms, including CBeebies, Netflix, Noggin in the U.S., ABC Australia, RTP Portugal and TVO Canada. This BAFTA-winning series regularly achieves the top position on kids’ platforms and comes with a huge YouTube following with over 3.4 billion views to date. Sales Contacts: Aardman: Alison Taylor, Miguel Mestre; Blue Zoo: Alison Warner.

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Trending On The most-viewed clips on our video portals in the last month.

Strawberry Shortcake: Berry in the Big City (Preschool, 80x4 min. & 4x44 min. CG specials) Strawberry Shortcake travels to Big Apple City. Distributor: WildBrain

50/50 Heroes (Kids 2D/CGI comedy/adventure, 52x11 min.) Half-siblings discover they have inherited superpowers—that must be shared down the middle. Distributor: Cyber Group Studios

White Night (Drama, 12x60 min.) A family struggles to cope with an imbalance of power wielded by a person who is no longer alive. Distributor: ZDF Enterprises

The Traitors (Ent./reality format, 60 min. eps.) Contestants work as a team to complete a series of challenging missions to earn a cash prize. Distributor: All3Media International

Dinosally (Preschool, 78x5 min.) A pink young dinosaur named Sally goes on adventures every day in Dino Town with her friends. Distributor: Mostapes 110 WORLD SCREEN 3/22

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