Television Asia Plus | May-June 2024

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Editor’s Note

Dear Reader,

Thank you for picking up the latest issue of Television Asia Plus!

One of the advantages of Asia’s entertainment industry over the likes in the West is that we don’t lack diversity in our projects. In fact, there’s so much content being made and produced that it’s about standing out and selling internationally.

But while everyone’s goal is to appear on the global stage, there are more and more multi-national projects happening to bring in multi-cultural experiences in shows.

On this issue’s cover & cover story we have one such project with Viu’s Secret Ingredient. We hear from Derek Wong, Vice President, Viu Originals, who gives us behind-the-scenes details and more.

For our first feature story, we have Celestial Tiger Entertainment’s launch of Hong Kong’s first ever Chinese movie channel called PopC, which will feature the rich and diverse Chinese content.

And our final feature story is all about production and distribution company Geophil as it invests in a range of diverse Turkish content for the Indian Market

Mathew Chan Editor

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Arjay Alivia Layout and Design OPERATIONS

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Wildbear Entertainment’s Wild Winter welcomed across Asia

All3Media International has announced two sales in Asia for Wildbear Entertainment’s Wild Winter, as the four-part natural history documentary travels to China and South Korea

Both acquiring channels are renowned for their libraries of top quality natural history programming and have reputations for premium content in this field.

In China, the series premiered exclusively on the leading VOD

outlet YOUKU (an Alibaba streaming platform), whilst in South Korea, the public broadcaster KBS will introduce the show to the country by March

Produced by Wildbear Entertainment for France Télévisions free-to-air public television channel France 5, Wild Winter takes audiences through breathtaking winter landscapes and their amazing animal inhabitants including polar residents such as the emperor penguin, artic fox, polar

bear and harp seal as well animals like the Australia’s common wombat, and Japan’s quirky snow monkeys, that also find themselves in cold climates.

Tony Ziran Tang, VP Asia at All3Media International, reflects on the series’ allure, remarking, “Wild Winter is a testament to the astonishing resilience and captivating survival stories of our planet’s diverse wildlife. With its timely release perfectly complementing late winter programming, I am thrilled to witness YOUKU and KBS embracing this series, promising to captivate and entertain audiences across China and South Korea.”

From the Polar North to the South Pole, landscapes that at first glance look uninhabitable are in fact home to many incredible animal species. Wild Winter examines the incredible adaptations, predatory behaviours, survival instincts, and breeding habits of the unique animals that call these spectacular locations home.

The sins of the city spill over in Gangnam B-Side a new Korean crime drama coming later this year exclusively on Disney+

After years of being shunned by his department, a detective will be forced back to the frontlines in Gangnam B-Side, an unmissable crime drama coming later this year, exclusively on Disney+.

Set deep amongst the shadows of the big city lights, Gangnam B-Side follows a pariah detective as he’s pulled back into a world of vice, drugs and corruption following the disappearance of his daughter’s friend. Compelled to do whatever it takes to rescue the latest in a long line of women to go missing in the city’s bustling Gangnam district, the detective will uncover a truth that threatens to topple some of the city’s wealthiest elite.

Starring Jo Woojin as elite officer and shunned detective Kang Dongwoo, as well as Ji Changwook

(The Worst of Evil, Backstreet Rookie) as back alley enforcer

Yoon Gilho, Gangnam B-Side is written by Joo Wongyu (Argon) and directed by Park Noori (Money)

Fans of unmissable Korean storytelling can sign up to Disney+ today to enjoy immediate access to other exciting Korean dramas including The Worst Of Evil, starring Ji Changwook as an

undercover detective who infiltrates a dangerous new gang; the awardwinning series Big Bet, starring legendary actor Choi Minsik as a serial entrepreneur who repeatedly crosses the line to help bolster his burgeoning casino business; and Moving, about a group of South Korean special agents working to protect their super-powered children from harm and exploitation.

Prime Video To Launch Season Two of Acclaimed Italian Original Series The Bad Guy, Starring Luigi Lo Cascio and Claudia Pandolfi

Prime Video announced the second season of Italian Original series The Bad Guy starring Luigi Lo Cascio and Claudia Pandolfi, with Stefano Accorsi joining the cast for this new season. Additional returning cast members include Selene Caramazza, Giulia Maenza and Antonio Catania. The shooting of season two took place on location in the regions of Lazio, Emilia Romagna and Sicily.

Season One of The Bad Guy was acclaimed by audiences and critics alike and told the incredible story of Nino Scotellaro (Lo Cascio), an incorruptible Sicilian public prosecutor who, after being convicted of Mafia, decides to pull off a Machiavellian revenge plan, becoming the “bad guy” he has been unjustly turned into. Season Two returns as a bridge between past and future, between the ghosts of regret and remorse and the desire for a new life no longer within his reach, in a story that mixes crime and dark comedy.

Season Two of The Bad Guy is directed by Giuseppe G. Stasi and Giancarlo Fontana, created by Ludovica Rampoldi, Davide Serino

and Giuseppe G. Stasi, and written by Fortunata Apicella, Giacomo Bendotti, Giordana Mari, Ludovica Rampoldi, Davide Serino and Giuseppe G. Stasi. The new season is produced by Nicola Giuliano, Francesca Cima, Carlotta Calori, Viola Prestieri at Indigo Film in a co-production with Amazon MGM Studios, in association with the global film and TV studio FIFTH SEASON and in collaboration with Rai Cinema, which will broadcast an original Prime Video series on linear television for the first time.

Season Two of The Bad Guy will be available on Prime Video in Italy in 2025, and later, on RAI, which will also broadcast the first season free-to-air. FIFTH SEASON will handle international sales of both seasons in all other territories

Fremantle acquires global production rights for original comedy Japanese format Freeze

Fremantle has announced it has acquired global production rights to the mega-hit original Japanese format, Freeze. Originally developed and produced by FANY Studio and Yoshimoto Kogyo for Amazon Prime Video, the unique high-energy comedic game show has been entertaining audiences for two seasons and is now ready to go global.

Freeze is a comedy entertainment game show, where contestants battle it out for a grand prize. In this unique show, the rules of the game are simple – players enter a closed room and simply must “freeze” until the presenter releases them. With traps and tricks along the way that provoke reaction from the players, such as flying mannequins and giant popping balloons, only those who remain still, will survive to battle it out for a place in the grand finale. Those who move, laugh, or react the most will be eliminated. The player who remains still for the longest time

throughout the game is crowned the winner and will receive a prize

Commenting on the deal, Vasha Wallace, EVP Global Acquisitions and Development at Fremantle said, “We premiered Freeze at London Screenings and it had an absolutely fantastic response, with interest from our international partners around the world. When the team at FANY Studio first showed us a clip of Freeze we all

thought it was hilarious and we knew this would resonate with audiences everywhere. We have really enjoyed collaborating with the teams at FANY Studio on this highly entertaining game show from Amazon Prime Japan. Freeze is all about having nerves of steel and a fun and unique mechanism that is bound to keep viewers of all ages entertained. We look forward to bringing the addictive and exceptional format to a global audience.”

Nippon TV Announces New Large Scale Survival Drama Series ACMA:GAME

Nippon TV, Japan’s leading multiplatform entertainment powerhouse, announced today that Prime Video will distribute Nippon TV’s highly anticipated large scale survival action thriller series ACMA:GAME (“AK-muh” Game). The series will stream on Prime Video Japan starting April 7th, immediately after Nippon TV’s Sunday primetime air slot, with global streaming of the series to follow on all Prime Video

outlets on April 26th. Hulu Japan will also stream the series immediately after Nippon TV’s broadcast.

ACMA:GAME is based on the popular manga of the same name written by Meeb (Brave Bell) and illustrated by Koji Megumi (Bloody Monday), which was serialized on Kodansha’s Weekly Shonen Magazine from 2013 to 2017. ACMA:GAME takes place in a devil’s world where the challenge is to

conquer the world by collecting 99 devil’s keys. Players are forced to participate, and if they lose, they cannot refuse any orders. The protagonist challenges the game risking his life, along with the people who are being manipulated by the devil’s key. They must unravel the mystery hidden in the devil’s key in order to survive. The word ACMA is derived from the Japanese world akuma which means devil.

“Japan is known for exhilarating manga, but this one is exceptional. It’s a topnotch youth story, and above all, the game master is a devil,” commented Naoto Fujimura, Producer, Nippon TV

“We are honored to be able to stream ACMA:GAME on Prime Video, which will be broadcast on Nippon TV from April,” said Takashi Kodama, Country Director, Prime Video Japan

This deal was brokered by Keisuke Miyata, Head of Sales, Global Business, Nippon TV

Tiny Desk Concerts Come to NHK WORLD-JAPAN

JAPAN is set to produce and air tiny desk concerts featuring Japanese musicians. “tiny desk concerts JAPAN” will be an adaptation of the series originated by the American public broadcaster, NPR. Artists perform in an intimate setting with acoustics that match the atmosphere. Audiences around the world have embraced the format, which now attracts superstars such as Taylor Swift and BTS as well as up-and-coming entertainers.

With a platform license from NPR, NHK WORLD-JAPAN will introduce viewers to Japanese artists. The inaugural broadcast will feature Fujii Kaze, a performer who has been earning accolades domestically and abroad. People who haven’t heard him will get their first chance. Those who do know him will hear his music in a new way.

Viu Original Private Bodyguard and Viu Original Adaptation What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim dominate viewership in March 2024

Viu, PCCW’s leading pan-regional over-the-top (OTT) video streaming service, today announced the success of its latest Viu Original, Private Bodyguard, and Viu Original Adaptation, What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim, in Indonesia and the Philippines respectively. Both of these became the most watched shows on the platform within hours of being launched in their home markets. In addition, Private Bodyguard topped the chart in Malaysia while What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim became the second most watched series in

Singapore and Hong Kong on the platform on their launch day.

Derek Wong, Vice President, Viu Original, commented, “With Viu Originals, we aim to resonate with our consumers on a much deeper level, with characters and stories that reflect the lives of our viewers. Private Bodyguard and What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim are great examples of Viu’s commitment to being relevant to our consumers, as we made successes out of the respective adaptations of a popular online novel and a well-received Korea rom-com, not just in their home markets but also across the region.”

Viu Original Private Bodyguard is based on the story by the same name that was published on X. The series takes a fresh spin on the classic “poor girl falls in love with the handsome rich boy” angle. The anti-bullying stance and how the protagonist stands up against

all odds to the bullies in her high school have resonated well with Viuers. Private Bodyguard is produced in collaboration with Sinemart, which forms part of the Emtek media company, with over 20 years of experience in the formats of television, cinematic and, more recently, OTT.

Viu Original Adaptation What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim has created a buzz on social media since its announcement last quarter Momentum for the show continued to build which, as anticipated, quickly climbed the charts to the top position on Viu on launch day. In the lead roles are Kim Chiu, who has over 12.5 million followers on Instagram, and Paulo Avelino, a much soughtafter film and television actor in the Philippines, who play Secretary Kim and Mr Vice-Chairman respectively. Created in partnership with ABSCBN Entertainment and produced by Dreamscape, this is the third collaboration between the teams

Turkish daily drama series Redemption has been renewed for a third season by Kanal 7.

The series, produced by Karamel Yapim, has risen to become the top rated show for the broadcaster having debuted in November 2022, and has regularly outscored premium weekly fare from Turkey’s major linear channels.

“Redemption is a classic example of a series that succeeds because of great storytelling, and even though it has a more modest budget than some, the production is high quality, the perfomances from the cast are compelling and each episode is unmissable!” says Handan Özkubat, Director of

Turkish Drama at international distributor Eccho Rights

So far Eccho has licensed the title across a string of Eastern European territories, including Romania, Bulgaria, Israel, Georgia, Bosnia Herzegovina, North Macedonia, Serbia and Montenegro.

Season one of Redemption ran to 207 x 45 episodes, while season two is currently on air and in production until the summer, with a total of 273 episodes on order. The third season is set to premiere in September 2024, with 280 episodes commissioned

Korea’s Something Special Announces Sale of Two Format Options to Spain’s Mediawan

Something Special, Seoul-based #1 independent* international Format agency announced the licensing of two formats into Spain. Praise ChanMi Shin, Something Special’s Head of International Business will be at MIP to present a case study of Still Alive a mystery reality game show format which the company has created with top Korean Creator, Miyeon Kim and Bora Lee.

Spain’s Mediawan acquired two formats through its local production labels: Veranda took Something Special’s spooky format Still Alive while Boomerang took celebrity competition format Battle in the Box Something Special is also preparing for MIPFormats and will bring their hot new dating format: I AM SINGLE (aka I AM SOLO – KR title): In 2023, there were 43 dating shows

airing across different channels and platforms in Korea. Among them, this show has broken records as one of the most viewed non-scripted dating shows across three streaming platforms, including Netflix. This show has also been the most searched and viral TV show of 2023.

Jin Woo Hwang (Something Special President & Executive Producer) stated, “Something Special is pleased announce that Mediawan acquired our special formats for Spain Still Alive and Battle in the Box. We’re also excited to bring the freshest and the best Korean formats for the first time internationally during MIPTV and MIPFormats. Our head of International BusinessPraise, will be presenting a case study of Still Alive at MIPFormats which we are proudly representing.”

Goalpost Pictures critically acclaimed crime drama Black Snow is back with a brand-new cold case

The first look images of Travis Fimmel (Vikings) and Jana McKinnon (Bad Behaviour) in the brand new season of Black Snow have been released. The series is currently filming in Queensland.

The brand new six-part mysterydrama produced by Goalpost Pictures and set in the Glasshouse Mountains sees Travis Fimmel reprise his role as Detective Cormack and joined by new cast members McKinnon, Megan Smart (Class of ‘07), Alana Mansour (Erotic Stories), Dan Spielman (Bad Behaviour, The Newsreader), Victoria Haralabidou (The Tourist) and Kat Stewart (Offspring)

In this returning season, Detective Cormack tackles two separate missing persons cases. One is professional, as he investigates the disappearance of Zoe Jacobs (McKinnon), who disappeared from her own 21st birthday party in 2003. And the other is personal, as Cormack searches desperately for his own younger brother, who went missing when they were children.

Stan Chief Content Officer Cailah Scobie said, “Following the enormous

success of the first season of Black Snow we are thrilled to be working with the team at Goalpost Pictures and the incredible cast, led by Travis, on another gripping season. We thank our partners at Screen NSW, Screen Queensland, the City of Gold Coast and All3Media and look forward to sharing the new season with audiences soon.”

The brand-new season of the Stan Original Series Black Snow is produced in association with All3Media International and AMC Networks Streamer Sundance Now and with financial support from Screen Queensland, Screen NSW and City of Gold Coas t. A Goalpost Television Production. Stan Executive Producers Cailah Scobie and Amanda Duthie. All3Media International handle global distribution.

Keshet International boards Elisa’s Valhalla Project

Global content distributor and producer Keshet International is partnering with Elisa to distribute the premium international mystery drama Valhalla Project (Operaatio Valhalla) worldwide

An Elisa Viihde original series produced by Snapper Films, the mystery thriller is one of 10 scripted series selected by a jury of TV executives for this year’s MIP Drama Showcase – the annual showcase that offers an exclusive early-

stage preview of high-end dramas to international TV buyers – last April. Valhalla Project explores the concept of parallel dimensions while also investigating relatable themes of humanity, identity, and the limitations of life across 6 episodes. Sara Soulié (Conflict, Hammarskjöld, The Man Who Died ) stars as climate researcher Alina Railo, who travels to Finnish Lapland with an international expedition to seek access to a parallel universe

with the hopes of finding a solution to the climate crisis – a parallel universe initially researched by her father, who disappeared in Lapland over 30 years ago.

Valhalla Project is a multilanguage drama featuring English, Finnish and Russian dialogue. In addition to starring Soulié in the lead role, the 6×60’ thriller features a stellar cast of internationally recognized actors, including Alistair Brammer (Les Misérables, Medieval), Iben Dorner (Borgen, Thin Ice), Joonas Saartamo (Silence, Utö) and Pääru Oja (Vikings: Valhalla, Cold Courage)

Valhalla Project is filmed in subzero locations in Helsinki, North Karelia and Lapland in Finland. The principal creatives are internationally recognised awardwinning filmmakers creator and writer Jari Olavi Rantala (Deadwind, The Unknown Soldier), and director and producer Juha Wuolijoki (King of Los Angeles, Christmas Story, Vinski and the Invisibility Powder)

Commissioned by Elisa and slated to premiere in Finland later this year, Valhalla Project is currently in post-production.

OUTtv Joins as Co-Producer of the Hit Make-Up Showdown Series

OUTtv, the world’s leading LGBTQ+ streaming service, has come on board as the new exclusive global SVOD rights holder, excluding the UK for the hit BBC series Glow Up: Britain’s Next Make Up Star

Originally a BBC Three and Netflix co-production, Glow Up has offered contestants career-making breaks in the make-up industry since its first season in 2019. The Competition Reality Series is the ultimate makeup showdown and for its fifth series welcomed brand-new host, Supermodel Leomie Anderson. In each season a new cast of aspiring make-up artists (MUAs) are tested in high-stakes professional assignments from TV special effects to digital fashion week, global beauty brand campaigns and red carpets. At Glow Up Studios the MUAs set out to impress Series Judges and industry legends Val Garland and Dominic Skinner with jaw dropping transformations.

Produced by Wall to Wall Media for the BBC, season six will launch on OUTtv channels and SVOD services in Spring 2024. The deal follows a number of recent successful coproductions for OUTtv with leading international broadcasters including House of Drag with TVNZ, The G-List with South Africa’s eMedia, Metro Sexual with Nine Network Australia and Shine True with Fuse Media.

Brad Danks, CEO of OUTtv, said, “Glow Up is an internationally renowned series that shines a spotlight on the incredible craft of make-up artistry in a thoroughly entertaining and dynamic way, and aligns perfectly with our other original programming such as Sew Fierce where fans have loved immersing themselves in the work behind the creation of iconic looks. We are delighted to be bringing the sixth season to our audiences later this year.”

Accedo acquires Easel TV, accelerates OTT product offering

Global video solutions provider, Accedo, announced that it has acquired Easel TV, the UK-based provider of advanced streaming technology and digital media solutions founded by well-known media executives Joe Foster and Bill Scott. Easel TV has a long track record of being a trusted technology partner of media companies and TV operators

The acquisition will bring the Easel TV SaaS platform and the Accedo award-winning Accedo One SaaS platform under one roof and further strengthen Accedo’s ability to deliver on customer requirements. The Easel TV team will immediately join Accedo’s existing London office, allowing Accedo to better serve customers, both in the UK and internationally.

Michael Lantz, CEO, Accedo, commented, “I’m thrilled to be joining forces with Easel TV. The team has done a fantastic job in establishing themselves on the market and they share Accedo’s core philosophy of customer centricity. We believe that we will be stronger together as we continue to innovate in this market.”

“We’ve known the Accedo team for a long time. It was the right time to join forces having proven out the technology on our latest generation

of product and were looking at significant investments to scale our business internationally. Accedo, with its strong brand, global scale and world class technical expertise, is the ideal partner for us and we look forward to continuing to grow together with the Accedo team” added Joe Foster, CEO, EaselTV

Easel TV’s brand name will gradually be phased out and will continue to be operated under the Accedo brand

Animax launches on Tata Play Binge;

With a Anime fans now have a new destination to access popular Japanese anime content with Tata Play Binge’s latest partnership with Asia’s leading Japanese anime network, Animax. This comes at an opportune time when India’s palette has been growing for anime content, where viewers are not only emerging as a vibrant fan community but are also showcasing increased interest in Japanese culture and cuisine. Tata Play Binge subscribers will now be enjoying anime content at the touch of a button, through this partnership.

Animax is currently the #1 destination for the best anime

content from Japan and features world-class animated content including web series, movies, and much more for viewers to discover and explore. Animax will take viewers on an unparalleled journey into the world of anime with new and popular titles. Additionally, they will get to enjoy fan favorite anime blockbusters like Kuroko’s Basketball, Yashahime: Half Demon Princess, Black Clover, Naruto, Haikyu!! and others. Titles loved by Tweens like Y School Heroes will also be available to reach across different age groups.

Subscribers also get to explore exclusive titles like Fruits Basket, Rent-

a-Girlfriend, Orient, Black Clover, Naruto and numerous others. The platform will bring multiple hours of fresh programming to global anime enthusiasts’ providing access to the most exciting content.

Commenting on the new partnership, Tata Play’s Chief Commercial and Content Officer, Pallavi Puri, said, “The growing affinity of Indian viewers towards newer content genres, like K-dramas, sports, gaming and others is reassuring, as it opens up many opportunities for content curators like us. With Animax’s support, we are adding another genre to our growing bouquet of content spread – anime. Tata Play Binge viewers will now have a huge selection of popular anime content available to them at one place. With its vast mix of popular OTT apps and a wide range of content offerings, Tata Play Binge ensures that viewers derive maximum value from their subscription.”

ABS-CBN’s A Soldier’s Heart is first series chosen by streaming platforms in The Middle East

ABS-CBN, the Philippines’ leading content provider, marks another milestone by becoming the first to distribute an Arabicdubbed Filipino drama after forging an agreement with Rabee Alhajabed Art Production & Distribution FZE in tapping the rising video-on-demand platforms in the Middle East

The Philippine hit action-drama series “A Soldier’s Heart” is available in three streaming platforms: Maraya, Shofha, and Weyyak, covering Egypt, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and other Arabic-speaking territories

“A Soldier’s Heart” follows the powerful story of Alex, an IT expert who joins the army and crosses paths with a Muslim family whose identity makes him reconsider where his future might lie. Proving to be a stirring drama, its story made a lasting impact on the hearts of viewers, while also emphasizing the challenges and sacrifices military people face as they fulfil their oaths to their nation.

Similarly, a staple of Philippine popular culture, the action-fantasy drama

“Darna” will soon be available with its own Arabic-dubbed version. This Arabic-dubbing initiatives of ABS-CBN comes after the series of scripted format sales of “A Mother’s Guilt”, “Mea Culpa”, “The Good Son” and “Forevermore” in the region, further solidifying ABSCBN’s strength in creating deeplymoving stories that cross borders.

Selling over 50,000 hours of content to over 50 countries in Asia, Africa, Europe, and Latin America, ABS-CBN transitions from a Philippine broadcasting company to a global storytelling company that champions Filipino talent by showcasing world-class Filipino shows to diverse audiences across multiple platforms

QYOU Media India collaborates with Toonz Media to launch Q Toonz

In an endeavor to revolutionize the world of animation entertainment, QYOU Media India collaborates with Toonz Media, a renowned global animation creator, producer, and distributor to announce the launch of Q Toonz, a FAST animation channel. Currently live, across the Q Play+ app and over 130 smart TV brands, the channel will emerge as the ultimate destination for premium animation entertainment.

With a core messaging of ‘Unrivalled Animation, Timeless Entertainment’, Q Toonz boasts a content slate of over 2500 hours of high-quality, multigenre animated shows and films. Designed to captivate not only children but also young adults, Q Toonz ensures a comprehensive and engaging viewing experience for families. From action-packed adventures to heart-warming tales, and whimsical comedies to gripping dramas, Q Toonz curates the best of animated

content with high entertainment value. The channel offers nostalgia inducing classics such as The Raccoons, Wolverine and the X-Men, along with the latest animated sensations like GummyBear Show: GummyBear and Friends, Cat and Keet, Zoonicorn, Baby Einstein Classics and Sea Explorers, Pinocchio and Friends

Q Toonz stands as a testament to QYOU Media India’s commitment to recognizing the immense potential of animated entertainment. This collaboration with Toonz Media aims to create a channel that transcends age barriers, offering an immersive journey into a world of endless imagination, creativity, and excitement.

Toonz Media has also partnered with Warner Bros Discovery, Peacock, Media Corp., SVT, Sky Kids, TIM Vision, RTVE Clan TV, TV Azteca, Amazon, Netflix, Viacom18, Disney, and Marvel

BBC Studios launches ‘BBC

Kids’ as a monthly subscription service for the first time in Korea

BBC Studios announces that it will launch ‘BBC Kids’ in Korea as a monthly subscription service on Genie TV Kids Land, a dedicated IPTV service for young children, in collaboration with KT.

Through this partnership, BBC Studios Asia will be bringing a wide range of children’s content to Korean audiences, available in one place for the very first time The service will feature a mix of content in English language as well as a variety of popular titles dubbed into Korean for the very first time.

Korean audiences will be able to indulge in S1-4 of BAFTA and Emmy award-winning pre-school animation

series ‘HEY DUGGEE’, on Genie TV Kids Land among IPTVs with Series 4 being exclusive to this service in Korea. HEY DUGGEE is based around The Squirrel Club run by a big friendly dog called Duggee. It’s a place where children take part in all kinds of activities, have adventures

and earn activity badges along the way. Duggee teaches the Squirrels about being responsible, working as a team, taking acceptable risks and most importantly… having fun! More fan favorites will be available with ‘Andy’s Global Adventures’ exclusively premiering in Korea on Genie TV Kids Land IPTV, where audiences can accompany Andy Day as he goes on many adventures all around the world and meets all kinds of amazing creatures. Plus ‘Yakka Dee’, an engaging vocabularylearning series designed for children starting to learn English, as well as a variety of series covering diverse topics and genres, like ‘Go Jetters’, ‘Sarah & Duck’, ‘My World Kitchen’, and more.

OUTtv’s Froot.tv rebrands as OUTflix & continues European expansion with Allente

OUTtv, the world’s leading LGBTQ+ streaming service from OUT Media Group (OMG), is rebranding its UK and Ireland streaming service Froot.tv to OUTflix and launching a Directto-Consumer app offering for OUTflix across the region. In addition, OUTflix has launched across the Nordics through a deal with Allente which covers Sweden, Norway, Denmark and Finland.

Since launching in the UK in 2020 as a DTC offering, the service has grown its partnerships to include OUTtv Proud, a FAST channel now available via Channelbox on Freeview, Plex and Netgem.

OUTflix is also a commissioner of original UK content, recently greenlighting queer comedy series Stand Up Specials London (5 x 45’), featuring sets from emerging comedians including James Barr, Heleana Blackwell, David Ian, Kat Nip and Vix Leyton. Additional UK original content on the service includes “Live at the Queer Comedy Club”, and a series of short films from The Iris Prize festival selected titles. In addition, two projects developed through the documentary film financing fund for emerging British LGBTQ+ filmmakers that OUTtv funds alongside The Iris Prize and Aberystwth University are hosted on OUTflix: Somina Fombo’s Some Girls

Hate Dresses, which follows the lives of Black British tomboys from the 1990s, and the forthcoming Bender Defenders from director Ira Putilova, highlighting five queer, non-binary and transgender people at a queer Muay Thai club in East London talking about friendship, love, intimacy, queerness, London and bodies.

Brad Danks, CEO of OMG and OUTtv, said, “OUTtv has always been a trailblazing platform, recognizing that queer audiences and allies are a significant segment of the viewer population and offering them both original and acquired content –ranging from overlooked stories from the past like Some Girls Hate Dresses, to bubbly and authentic dating series like Stormy Daniels-fronted “For the Love of DILFS”. We are unifying the brand as we expand across Europe and beyond, so we’re thrilled to be launching OUTflix alongside our partnership with Allente across the Nordics – and look forward to many more viewers discovering the treasure trove of LGBTQI+ content we continue to grow.”

KC Global Media brings more anime to fans in India with launch of Animax on Samsung TV Plus

Anime fans in India now have another platform to enjoy epic battles, heartwarming stories as Asia’s leading entertainment network, KC Global Media, launched its leading Japanese anime channel, Animax, onto regional OTT TV and streaming service provider, Samsung TV Plus, making it the third streaming platform after Amazon Prime and JioTV to offer Animax to its viewers in India. Anime fans can now binge-watch their favourite anime and dive into endless hours of non-stop anime entertainment, while exploring and discovering

popular titles and cult classics across a wide range of genres.

George Chien, Co-Founder, President, and CEO of KC Global Media said, “We are ecstatic to launch Animax on Samsung TV Plus and bring more entertainment to anime fans here in India! Now, with just a few clicks, more viewers can immerse themselves in a world of captivating stories and dynamic characters, all from the comfort of their own homes and mobile devices. This strategic partnership allows us to reach a wider audience and continue building a vibrant anime community on

Samsung TV Plus, united by a love for anime favourites and popular classics available on Animax.”

As the leading anime channel in Asia, Animax continues to be the leading destination for anime across a variety of genres, home to the latest blockbuster anime as well as well-loved classics. Popular anime hit series include TSUKIMICHI -Moonlit Fantasy, The Faraway Paladin, Parallel World Pharmacy, Y School Heroes, My Next Life As a Villainess: All Routes Lead To Doom!, ORIENT, Naruto and many more.

Studio 100 Media Evolves Into Studio 100 International

Studio 100 Media, a renowned key player in children’s and family entertainment based in Munich, has announced its rebranding to Studio 100 International. The new company name reflects its expanding role as the pivotal international distribution entity of the Studio 100 Group, producing and delivering high-quality films and series to global markets, as well as engaging in worldwide brand rights licensing. With Studio Isar Animation, Studio 100 International owns a stateof-the-art animation production studio in Munich, producing top

class content for the global family and kids’ audience. In addition, Studio 100 International brings along an excellent track record in comprehensive financial engineering for both its own and third-party films and series. Recently, the company has forged strategic partnerships with 3 Doubles Producciones and Gaumont Animation and collaborates with industry leaders to produce and distribute content globally.

The new branding includes a redesigned company logo symbolizing Studio 100

International’s commitment to innovation and creativity. Furthermore, the Munich production and distribution company is launching its new website providing access to its extensive portfolio of popular brands and productions

Martin Krieger, CEO of Studio 100 International, expresses his enthusiasm for this essential evolution,“The transition to Studio 100 International marks a significant milestone in our journey and reflects our ambitions to consolidate the company’s position among the leading players in the media industry.”

Titan Content and The Gurin Company forge creative K-Pop Partnership;

Los Angeles-based The Gurin Company has announced a ground-breaking creative collaboration with Titan Content, the first US-headquartered K-pop company launched by K-Pop visionary Nikki Semin Han.

The first project to be announced under the new alliance is K-Pop Dreams (WT) which sets out to turn the world’s growing fascination with all thing’s ‘K’ into a 10-episode non-conventional talent search format aimed at making “American K-pop dreams come true”.

This first of a kind series offers a

real and relatable experience in the world of K-Pop with the journey to open doors for undiscovered K-Pop talent across cities in the US.

Viewers will be granted an exclusive backstage pass, immersing them in a comprehensive journey that unfolds every aspect, from initial discovery and planning sessions to the meticulous development and shaping of a captivating K-pop spectacle. This transformative series serves as a detailed narrative, encapsulating the entirety of the process, offering unparalleled insights from discovery

to the debut show of the new group, all set to take place in the US.

The partnership married and packaged through United Talent Agency (UTA), will see the two companies collaborate on this innovative show inspired by the K-Pop music and lifestyle phenomenon, which is fast becoming a mainstream cultural movement in the US. The Gurin Company will produce the series and TGC Global Entertainment (TGC GE) — Gurin’s year-old international distribution company — will also represent the finished show and format on the global market

TAICCA promotes Taiwanese series content and talent at Series Mania

Series Mania, Europe’s biggest series festival, commenced in Lille last March 15, “Three Tears in Borneo,” a period drama from Taiwan Public Television Series, marks the first Taiwanese series selected for its International Panorama. As an official partner with Series Mania following an MOU in 2022, Taiwan Creative Content Agency (TAICCA) will host multiple industry events to spotlight Taiwan’s talent and content, including the Taiwan Spotlight pitching event, “Shoot The Book” expert talk, and the Serial Bridges international series development workshop. Set against the backdrop of World War II, “Three Tears in Borneo” portrays the perspective of a

Taiwanese monitor of POWs, debuting alongside 11 other international series contending for awards. Winners will be announced at the closing event.

Additionally, five other Taiwanese series will pitch to international industry delegates at Taiwan Spotlight with TAICCA, including “Maid of Revenge,” a gripping revenge narrative with a strong female lead, which received the Series Mania Award and Chunghwa Telecom Award at the Taiwan Creative Content Fest (TCCF) last November. “Age of Flora,” a coming-of-age story from director Angel Teng I-han, whose previous series “Fragrance of the First Flower” was included in the Series Mania Short Form Competition in 2021.

“Our Quiet Days,” a suspenseful crime drama exploring the intricate family relationships of a female forensic pathologist. “No Hero,” set in the Japanese colonial period, follows a Taiwanese soldier’s mission to rescue prisoners of war. Lastly, “Seven Sins: Greed Kills” links the fates of seven unrelated individuals following an explosion.TAICCA has reinforced its partnership with France’s Centre national du cinéma et de l’image animée (CNC) since last year, aiming to promote Taiwan’s audiovisual and animation content in Europe. Homme Tsai, TAICCA’s chairman, emphasizes these partnerships as vital for Taiwanese content makers to connect with the international industry

Panoramic Pictures Launches a New Mainstream Theatrical Label in Hong Kong

Pinnacle Peak Pictures has announced that they have launched a mainstream theatrical division, Panoramic Pictures with veteran film executive Ron Gell, as Vice President of International Sales heading the company. Its first film is the horror comedy Dear Camp ‘86. In Hong Kong, Panoramic will be selling worldwide rights to Dear Camp ‘86, with a US Summer 2024 release set. Gell can be found at the Hong Kong Mart 1D-C28 starting today.

Dear Camp ’86 stars Noah LaLonde ( Netflix hit series My

Life with the Walter Boys), Brian Michael Raetz, Jay J. Bidwell, Arthur Cartwright, Josh Dominguez, David Lautman, Tina Joy, Paul Wilson, takes place in 1986 when six friends from Detroit travel north to partake in the annual tradition of deer hunting. But something horrific has been awakened and the hunters become the hunted. An ancient spirit seeks vengeance for the death of yet another Native American girl whose gone missing or been murdered. In an ironic twist, the hunters have become the hunted!

Written

by Bob Hansen and Riley Taurus, Produced by Riley Taurus

and Bo Hansen, Executive Produced by Fausto Torres, Stephen Afendoulis, Don Schneider and Tony Morris with music composed by Will Musser

Gell stated, “Excited to take a brand new film to Hong Kong. Perfect place to launch an exciting mainstream label. Panoramic Pictures will be a new label pushing the envelope from horror, to sci-fi, to comedy and drama. We all feel it’s the perfect time to launch a new label for an underserved market.”

BBC Strikes Deal with Amazon Music to Bring BBC Podcasts to Amazon Music Listeners Globally for the First Time

BBC – creator, producer and distributor of distinct British content globally – announced a new deal with Amazon Music that will make BBC podcasts available on the streaming service for the first time outside the UK

Subscribers to Prime and Amazon Music Unlimited services can now exclusively access a curated suite of over 50 of the BBC’s most popular podcasts ad-free, including notable BBC titles such as Americast, BBC Global News Podcast, Dua Lipa: At Your Service, The Global Story,

Infinite Monkey Cage, Planet Premier League, and World of Secrets.

Additionally, the deal will also unlock ad-supported listening for the BBC’s complete catalogue from across BBC Studios, BBC Public Service, and the BBC World Service for Amazon Music users on the streaming services’ ad-supported free tier.

Louise la Grange, SVP Audio, Digital News & Streaming, BBC Studios said, “Whether it’s a rundown of today’s headlines for the morning commute or a dose of true crime for a long road trip, we have something for everyone. Audio storytelling has long been our strength as a

global content producer, and with this partnership, we are thrilled to bring our BBC podcasts to even wider audiences. We invite Amazon Music listeners to explore the BBC’s premium audio storytelling and discover their new favorite podcast with us.”

“Amazon Music is thrilled to offer our global listeners the full catalogue of BBC podcasts outside of the UK,” said Shea Simpson, Head of Podcast Business, Amazon Music. “BBC’s premium British programmes are a fan-favorite, and we’re exicted to make 50 of their top titles available ad-free for Prime members and Amazon Music Unlimited subscribers.”

Phil Hardman, SVP and General Manager, BBC Studios Asia said, “We have over 100 years of history of producing world-class audio content and BBC Podcasts reflects the range of storytelling that is synonymous with the BBC and our mission to inform, educate and entertain audiences. This expansion of BBC Podcasts to Amazon Music deepens our well established relationship in Asia that already brings the BBC News channel to audiences in Japan, the best of on demand British content with BBC Player on Amazon Prime Video in India”

Hyeo Jin Moon Joins Dandelooo As International Sales & Acquisitions Manager

Emmy Award-winning French animation production and distribution company Dandelooo is delighted to announce the appointment of Hyeo Jin Moon as International Sales & Acquisitions Manager.

Hyeo Jin Moon will join the company with immediate effect and be responsible for acquisitions and all global distribution activities for Latin America, Asia, and Spain. She reports to Emmanuèle Petry, Producer and Head of International.

With experience in business development and digital marketing Hyeo Jin recently worked at French webtoon platform Delitoon (Paris) as Marketing & Editorial Team Leader and was responsible for partnership development and sales and rights management. Prior to joining Delitoon she was Deputy Director at Korea Creative Content Agency (KOCCA) and Marketing Manager at Kotra (Paris).

Commenting on the appointment Emmanuèle Petry, Producer and Head of International said, “I am so happy to welcome Hyeo Jin to our talented sales team. She brings her multicultural experience and boundless energy to promote the company’s growth and help our programs span screens globally”.

Hyeo Jin Moon added, “I am thrilled to embark on this exciting journey with Dandelooo. With a passion for fostering global connections and a commitment to delivering captivating content, I am eager to contribute to the dynamic world of children’s entertainment. Together with Dandelooo, I look forward to helping in creating imaginative and enriching experiences that will resonate with young audiences worldwide”.

Hyeo Jin Moon, International Sales & Acquisitions Manager, Dandelooo

AIB members elect new Executive Committee

In a significant reshaping of the global media landscape, the Association for International Broadcasting (AIB) has announced the election of its Executive Committee for the 2024-2026 term, comprising a diverse and experienced group of leaders from some of the world’s most significant broadcasting organisations. The newly elected members are set to steer the AIB through a period of rapid change and challenges in international broadcasting.

Members from across the AIB voted, with a 71% turnout, in an online election that had 12 nominees standing. Those elected are:

Nesryn Bouziane, currently serving as Manager of ABC International Services at the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, brings a wealth of experience in managing international broadcasting services and will play an important role in sharing knowledge of media markets both in the Asia-Pacific region and globally.

Craig Dale, the Deputy Chief Editor overseeing international news and business at CNA (Mediacorp), will bring his editorial expertise and contribute significantly to the committee’s strategic planning and content development initiatives.

The BBC World Service’s Director of Distribution, Nigel Fry, has extensive background in global broadcasting distribution and continues as a longstanding member of the AIB Executive Committee.

Meanwhile, Carlson Huang, Manager of the International Language Division at Radio Taiwan International, and another long-standing AIB Executive Committee member, brings invaluable insights into broadcasting in multiple languages, essential for the AIB’s efforts in promoting global communication and understanding.

John Lippman, the Acting Director of Voice of America, who joined the Executive Committee in 2023, has extensive experience in U.S. and international media that will enhance the collective impact of the AIB’s work worldwide.

Serge Schick, Director of International Development and Commercial Resources at France Médias Monde, continues as a member of the Executive Committee, bringing his expertise in international development and commercial strategies that will be instrumental in driving the AIB’s strategic growth.

Lastly, Ömer Faruk Tanrıverdi, the Deputy Director General of TRT, brings a unique perspective from Turkey’s broadcasting scene, further diversifying the committee’s expertise and helping to foster cultural and informational collaboration between the East and West.

“I’m delighted that we have such a wide range of members of the new AIB Executive Committee,” commented AIB chief executive Simon Spanswick. “As a truly global organisation, it’s fitting that media leaders from seven countries in Europe, North America, Asia, and the Pacific have been selected by our membership to represent them and provide leadership in the AIB. My colleagues and I at the AIB Secretariat are looking forward to working with this new Executive Committee.”

This diverse mix of media leaders from across the globe will help the AIB as it navigates the complex challenges of modern broadcasting, including areas such as artificial intelligence, sustainability, digital transition, regulatory environments, media freedom and the ongoing need for credible, impartial news for audiences worldwide.

With this new Executive Committee, the AIB aims to strengthen its role as a pivotal platform for international broadcasters, fostering collaboration and innovation to better serve audiences worldwide.

Chris Brearton Named Partner at AGBO

AGBO, the artist-led media company helmed by co-founders and award-winning directors Anthony and Joe Russo and Partner Donald Mustard, announced that Chris Brearton will join the Company as Partner. Brearton will oversee all aspects of the Company’s business strategy, operations and growth moving forward.

A highly recognized industry vet, Brearton brings over 25 years of experience in business strategy and operations, specializing in mergers and acquisitions, film and television financing, licensing, cultivating some of the industry’s premiere creatives, and joint ventures. Most recently, Brearton served as Vice President of Corporate Strategy at Amazon MGM Studios, where he shepherded Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer’s (MGM) integration into Prime Video and Amazon Studios and led corporate strategy for Prime Video Studios. He also launched MGM+ as a global streaming service and oversaw MGM’s Television business. Previously, Brearton was Chief Operating Officer of MGM, reporting directly to the Board Chairman, overseeing the studio’s global operations and strategic growth initiatives, including the sale to Amazon for $8.5 billion. Prior to MGM, he was Managing Partner of the global law firm Latham & Watkins and led the Century City office.

Brearton joins a growing team that includes Donald Mustard, the creative visionary behind some of the most profitable gaming franchises in history, including the Fortnite franchise and Shadow Complex, who joined AGBO as Partner in November 2023. Previously, Mustard served as the Chief Creative Officer at Epic Games and the co-founder of ChAIR Entertainment, which became an acquired subsidiary of Epic Games in 2008. During his tenure at Epic Games, Mustard helped build Fortnite into a global video game juggernaut that currently boasts hundreds of millions of players, generating tens of billions

of dollars in revenue. Currently, Mustard oversees AGBO’s expansion of community-driven interactive and immersive experiences in games and virtual worlds.

“Donald’s groundbreaking creative approach transforms games into cultural phenomena and record-breaking successes,” added co-founder Joe Russo. “As veterans in their respective fields, Donald and Chris embrace both the complexity and opportunity presented by ever-evolving technologies and modes of storytelling. With their expertise, we will leverage our creative machinery to champion best-in-class world-building while concurrently developing, producing, and releasing expressions across multiple types of media.”

“Anthony, Joe, and Donald are pioneers in this industry, and AGBO stands at the vanguard of the new media frontier as a trailblazing studio,” said Brearton. “I am excited to work with this innovative team as they turn their ambitious and creative vision to accelerate transformational world-building and global franchises across all media platforms into a reality.”

Partners Brearton, Mustard, the Russos and Chief Creative Officer Angela Russo-Otstot further strengthen AGBO’s leadership across key business, storytelling, and technology verticals, advancing the Company’s mission to become the premier destination for creative collaboration and universe-building.

“The team we’re assembling across AGBO gives storytellers and talent access to the sharpest array of tools and techniques to engage audiences around the world,” said co-founders Anthony and Joe Russo. “We look forward to collaborating with this world-class team to create significant growth opportunities and build for the future.”

L to R- Joe Russo, Donald Mustard, Chris Brearton, Anthony Russo, Angela Russo-Otstot | Courtesy of AGBO | Photo Credit Paul Abell

Ricky Ow Joins Viddsee’s Board of Directors, Enhancing the Entertainment Platform’s Strategic Vision

In a move to bolster its platforms, Viddsee, the leader in digital storytelling and independent filmmaking, is thrilled to welcome media veteran Ricky Ow to its Board of Directors. Ow, whose illustrious career spans numerous successful stints WarnerMedia, Turner and Sony Pictures, brings to Viddsee a deep understanding of the media landscape, particularly in areas of market development, content production and IP investment.

Ricky Ow joins Viddsee’s Board of Directors to steer its transformation into a dynamic entertainment hub that nurtures and promotes impactful creative content. His extensive experience in media and leadership in Web3 companies will be crucial in guiding Viddsee and in driving new initiatives under ‘Candee Labs’, Viddsee’s innovation venture into the Web3, AI space.

Viddsee has evolved from a platform primarily focused on showcasing short form content with a network of storytellers, to placing a stronger emphasis on the production of award-winning original content and expansive brand campaigns. This pivot leverages its network of over 5,000 creators to not only expand in size but also enhance the quality and scope of its content offerings. Additionally, Viddsee is refining its creator scouting processes to identify and nurture next-generation regional talent more effectively. Leveraging on Ow’s expertise, Viddsee aims to maneuver through the complexities of the media landscape to solidify Viddsee’s position as a leading hub for creative content across Asia.

Ricky Ow stated, “I look forward to guiding and supporting Viddsee’s journey at this transformative phase as we strengthen the platform and empower regional talent, setting new benchmarks in the creative industry.”

Ho Jia Jian, Viddsee’s Founder and CEO, also remarked on this appointment, stating, “We are incredibly privileged to welcome Ricky to our board. His extensive experience and deep industry insights will be crucial as we advance in innovation and leadership, particularly through challenging yet promising environments.”

Ricky Ow’s addition to Viddsee marks a significant milestone as the platform continues to lead and innovate in digital content, promising exciting new developments for brands, streamers and entertainment partners.

Ricky Ow , Board of Directors, Viddsee

A Deep Dive Into Viu’s Latest Original Secret Ingredient

By Mathew Chan

Viu’s latest buzzy series, Secret Ingredient, and is making waves. It came about through a partnership with Unilever Nutrition SEA. What started out as a means to push content marketing to the next step slowly developed around a series with the food at the center.

Television Asia Plus had the opportunity to pick the brains of Derek Wong, the Vice President for Viu Originals and learn more about the origins of the series, what inspired it, the challenges of making something of this scale as well as the possibility or more Secret Ingredient and other shows like it.

1. How did the concept of Secret Ingredient come about? Since it’s a big collab with Unilever, who approached who?

The whole concept came about as the partnership with Unilever Nutrition SEA and Indonesia and Viu began to grow. Unilever Nutrition SEA and Indonesia were seeking an organic way to incorporate their awardwinning brands, such as Royco, Knorr, Bango, Lady’s Choice, Sariwangi and Buavita into a series, given that consumers are spending hours immersing themselves watching content. At Viu, we understand how our consumers prefer to interact with brands within shows. We conceptualized a story that seamlessly brought together our Viu-ers love for K-dramas and the Southeast Asian elements through the Unilever Nutrition brands. The result was the collaboration between a Korean writer, a Korean director, a Korean actor, an Indonesian actor, a Filipina actress, and a Filipino production crew.

2. How long was the series in development and how was it different or similar to how Viu develops its other series?

The series took about half a year of development. This timeframe wasn’t typical for K-dramas, which often require more time for writing, but we did have a starting point and the terrific writing team led by our Korean writer, Baek Dong-hoon, along with our script development executives Katherine Visconti and Lea Dizon helped expedite the process.

Derek Wong Vice President for Viu

3. What were some of the biggest challenges doing something on this scale?

The biggest challenge was ensuring cultural authenticity. We needed to portray three cultures—Korea, Indonesia, and the Philippines—as accurately and beautifully as possible. Additionally, we had to deal with language barriers during both scriptwriting and shooting.

4. Is Secret Ingredient envisioned to be a one-off or is there any possibility of it getting future seasons?

Our Viu Originals are produced with the vision of producing future seasons. Our focus is to be relevant to our Viu-ers and hence we take the feedback we get through our shows to further fine tune our approach. Keeping this in mind the next season may not necessarily be a continuation of the previous season, it could be a whole new story with a similar structure and collaboration model targeting it as a regional project. However for now we hope the fans of K-dramas will enjoy the series.

5. Is Viu in development of other shows in collaboration with other brands? If not, is it something that Viu wants to do again or explore more?

This is definitely something we are open to and when there is the right opportunity you will certainly know about it. We enjoy working and collaborating with various brands to bring quality content to our audience. We are not limited to collaborating only on scripted content, even if it were non - scripted and a fit with our target audience we would be open to explore.

6. What is something about the series you think is original and would want to highlight?

Food shows are always a crowd favorite, as they tap into a universal theme that everyone can relate

to. Viewers appreciate how these shows connect food to emotions and memories that are dear to us. What makes this series special is the cross-cultural collaboration between countries, with each element representing the best of what each country has to offer and how this is all brought together in a story that we hope will touch the hearts of our Viu-ers.

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Celestial Tiger Entertainment Launches brand new PopC channel on myTV SUPER in Hong Kong

Celestial Tiger Entertainment (CTE), operator of the largest bouquet of pan-Asian channels dedicated to Asian entertainment, and myTV SUPER, the OTT platform of Television Broadcasts Limited (TVB), Hong Kong’s largest television broadcasting company, jointly announced about the recently launch of a brand new Chinese Online Movie channel, PopC, on myTV SUPER in Hong Kong. PopC launched on myTV SUPER last May 1, 2024.

Movie fans can catch China’s finest online movies first time on TV, all in one place, as PopC offers a curation of the most popular and high hit rate online titles, all produced in exceptionally high quality by China’s leading online entertainment platform, iQIYI. These movies span across all genres such as Fantasy, Action, Suspense/Thriller and Comedy, with new titles premiering all year round.

“We are delighted to be launching PopC with myTV SUPER in Hong Kong, which is our first carriage deal globally. The idea of PopC first came about when we saw the amount of great, high quality movies that were being produced for the online space in China. The domestic reception and online hit rates for these movies are just phenomenal, and we want to bring them to an international audience outside of China by curating them all in one great channel.” said Ofanny Choi, CEO of Celestial Tiger Entertainment. “We believe PopC will be the home of this new wave of Chinese content, and that it will appeal to all young, and young-at-heart movie lovers everywhere.”

“By introducing PopC, we are expanding our diverse portfolio on myTV SUPER. This new channel will showcase top-notch Chinese online movies, enhancing our commitment to bringing a variety of

premium content to our viewers. It’s about offering more choices and new experiences every day.” said Rex Ching, President of MyTV Super Limited.

Starting this May, PopC will introduce its viewers to the world of Chinese online movies with different themes every night at 9pm HKT. Each night from Mondays to Saturdays will feature movies from a different genre, for eg. “Fantasy Adventure” on Saturdays, with titles such as The Love of Immortal, Monster Hunt in Kaifeng, Vanquishing The Demon, and Monkey King: The One

and Only. Friday nights are when the “Chinese Heroes Assemble”, with modern take on well-known Chinese heroes such as Mulan, Chen Zheng and Zhang San Feng.

The movie excitement cumulates on Sundays with “Sunday Poplight” featuring a selection of the best titles across genres. In May, the spotlight will be on movies starring well-known Hong Kong stars such as Michael Tse, Lam Suet and Jeana Ho (in 72 Hour Golden Operation); Gillian Cheung and Sammy Sum (in The Queen); and Bobby Au-Yeung (in Song Ci).

Geophil Invests in Diverse Multiple Turkish Drama Series for

Indian Market

Geophil, the global co-production and distribution studio based in Dubai and headed up by Managing Director Robin Philip, announced the acquisition of multiple Turkish drama series for distribution in India from major Turkish producers including Calinos Entertainment, Inter Medya, and MediaHub.

Notable titles acquired include popular Turkish digital series Ilk Ve Son (English title: Deeply) from Calinos Entertainment (romantic drama focusing on the relationship of a young couple through their divorce a decade later), Aşk Laftan Anlamaz (English title: Love Doesn’t Understand Words) from Inter Medya (workplace romance between the owner’s son of a large fashion company and an employee) and Kirik Hayatlar (English title: Broken Lives) from MediaHub (romantic drama focusing on the sacrifices

a couple make to stay together in spite of a mother willing to do anything for power). Additional titles acquired include Broken Destiny, Last Summer, and Aziz.

Over the last year, Geophil has become a leading destination for premium Turkish content for Indian broadcasters. With their unique expertise in Turkish entertainment, Geophil has been able to source the most relevant and exciting content to audiences across the region, with more deals to be announced in the coming weeks.

“Geophil is committed to working with the best Turkish distributors and studios to source series that captivate Indian audiences. Leveraging our content expertise in Turkiye, MENA, and Asia, we carefully select shows we believe will succeed, especially as certain themes in Turkish programming strongly resonate with Indian viewers. As we further expand our global coproduction efforts, we’re proud to serve as a leading hub for Turkish content consumption throughout India” stated Robin Philip Managing Director of Geophil.

In addition to their distribution business, Geophil recently announced GlobalSphere Studios, a joint venture with Turkish media company MediaHub, focused on co-producing premium Turkish drama series. Alaca, the first series under the GlobalSphere brand, premiered to international buyers at MIPCOM 2023.