BBC Making Sarah Everard Documentary
The BBC is making a documentary about the investigation into the tragic murder of Sarah Everard, which led to a major reckoning over misogyny and bad behavior in London’s Metropolitan police force. Sarah Everard: The Search For Justice looks into Everard’s murder, how the devastating crime unfolded and its impact. Everard was killed by a serving police officer, Wayne Couzens, who abducted her as she walked home in March 2021, and this became a watershed moment for the nation. There were mass protests against male violence towards women and the narrative of ‘one bad apple’ in the police force was destroyed. The force was placed in special measures and a major review of the Met Police found a culture of denial, widespread bullying, discrimination, institutional homophobia, misogyny and racism. BBC Studios is behind the single doc, which is being EP-d by Emily Lawson and Kirsty Cunningham. “The murder of Sarah Everard sent shock waves across the country and ignited an urgent conversation about police failings and violence against women and girls,” said the BBC commissioner, Emma Loach. “This is an important and timely film and we, like Sarah’s family, hope it will contribute to the ongoing dialogue around the issues raised.”
‘Grand Tour’ & ‘Clarkson’s Farm’ Sells In Europe
Prime Video’s Grand Tour and Clarkson’s Farm have sold to networks in Poland and Italy. Older seasons of the two smash hits are being shopped by Amazon MGM Studios Distribution for the first time and Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) has picked them up for DMAX in Italy and TVN in Poland. WBD has taken seasons one and two. The deal prolongs an Amazon-WBD relationship in Europe that began with a major content deal in France that saw HBO content plus 12 channels made available on the Amazon platform in the nation. WBD acquired eight series in all for its European networks including The Repair Shop Australia and Teen First Dates.
Adrian Walters Joins ‘It Comes in Waves’ — EFM
Actor Adrian Walters (The Handmaid’s Tale, Star Trek: Discovery) has been cast as lead in the feature film It Comes in Waves From director Fitch Jean. The film was written by Sammy Mohammed and produced by Amir Zagara of Zagara Productions. Executive producers include Weggon Allen and Fitch Jean of Lenz Films, Lovell Adams-Gray, Adrian Walters and Franck Fon of BDB Productions, and Kerbens Boisette of One True Studio. Also joining the cast are Ryan Rosery (Mayor of Kingstown), Brandon McKnight (The Flash), McKenzie Small (A New Diva’s Christmas Carol), and Emmanuel Kabongo (Simulant, Sway) The pic is described as a “poignant and emotionally resonant film” that delves into the profound struggles of Akai (Walters), a teenage boy burdened with caring for his younger sister, Zera (Lewars,) after their mother’s tragic death. The film is now in post-production and is at the EFM.
TrustNordisk Boards Petra Volpe’s Hospital Drama ‘Heldin’
TrustNordisk has boarded international sales rights on hospital drama Heldin, directed and scripted by Petra Volpe. The film began production in January in Switzerland and is expected to have its local release in 2025. The film’s synopsis reads: “Floria, a dedicated nurse, navigates the relentless pace of a surgical ward with unwavering dedication, infusing humanity and warmth into her patient care even though the shift is understaffed. As the day intensifies, Heldin transforms into a gripping race against time, culminating in a riveting climax.” The film will be distributed by TOBIS in Germany and Austria and by Filmcoopi Zürich in Switzerland. “After the great cooperation on The Divine Order, we are thrilled to be reunited with Petra Volpe and the Zodiac team on this strong and captivating project, which we believe has a strong international potential,” said Susan Wendt, Managing Director of TrustNordisk.
‘Peaky Blinders‘ Restaurant Unveiled
A Peaky Blinders bar and restaurant has opened in Manchester. As the franchise continues to expand with a movie and ballet in the works, the venue situated in the heart of the city is inspired by the 1920s and has themed cocktails such as Monaghan Boy, Solomon’s Silence and Sweet Ada. Steven Knight’s BBC drama is set in Birmingham but parts of it were filmed in Manchester. The franchise has been developing since the TV series ended after six seasons in 2022. Banijay licensed the restaurant.
