Paramount+’s spy thriller The Department is starting to fill out its ranks.
The drama series, based on the French hit Le Bureau des Legendes, has tapped Joe Wright (Atonement, 2005’s Pride & Prejudice) as director of the first two episodes and Jez and John-Henry Butterworth (Ford v. Ferrari, Edge of Tomorrow) to write all 10 installments. The series, which comes from Showtime/MTV Entertainment Studios and 101 Studios, is aiming for a premiere date later this year on Paramount+ With Showtime.
The Department snagged a straight-to-series order in February 2023 at Showtime (shortly after Paramount Global announced the premium cabler would effectively be folded into Paramount+). At the time, George Clooney was announced as director, but he has ceded those duties to Wright. Clooney and producing partner Grant Heslov remain executive producers of the series, via their Smokehouse Pictures.
“Joe Wright is a visionary director with a gift of focusing on...
The drama series, based on the French hit Le Bureau des Legendes, has tapped Joe Wright (Atonement, 2005’s Pride & Prejudice) as director of the first two episodes and Jez and John-Henry Butterworth (Ford v. Ferrari, Edge of Tomorrow) to write all 10 installments. The series, which comes from Showtime/MTV Entertainment Studios and 101 Studios, is aiming for a premiere date later this year on Paramount+ With Showtime.
The Department snagged a straight-to-series order in February 2023 at Showtime (shortly after Paramount Global announced the premium cabler would effectively be folded into Paramount+). At the time, George Clooney was announced as director, but he has ceded those duties to Wright. Clooney and producing partner Grant Heslov remain executive producers of the series, via their Smokehouse Pictures.
“Joe Wright is a visionary director with a gift of focusing on...
- 3/5/2024
- by Rick Porter
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Director Joe Wright and writers Jez and John-Henry Butterworth have all boarded the upcoming Paramount+ series “The Department.”
The Showtime/MTV Entertainment Studios series, which was announced with a straight-to-series order in February 2023, is based on the French drama series “Le Bureau des Legendes” created by Eric Rochant. Wright will direct the first two episodes and executive produce, while the Butterworths will writer and executive produce all episodes. George Clooney was originally announced as directing the series. He and Grant Heslov remain onboard as executive producers via Smokehouse Pictures.
“Joe Wright is a visionary director with a gift of focusing on intricate details to craft immersive and visually striking stories,” said Chris McCarthy, President and CEO of Showtime/MTV Entertainment Studios. “And, Jez and John-Henry are masterful writers whose witty and emotionally charged language dives deep into their characters’ moral complexities, while simultaneously creating a propulsive narrative. Bringing these powerhouse...
The Showtime/MTV Entertainment Studios series, which was announced with a straight-to-series order in February 2023, is based on the French drama series “Le Bureau des Legendes” created by Eric Rochant. Wright will direct the first two episodes and executive produce, while the Butterworths will writer and executive produce all episodes. George Clooney was originally announced as directing the series. He and Grant Heslov remain onboard as executive producers via Smokehouse Pictures.
“Joe Wright is a visionary director with a gift of focusing on intricate details to craft immersive and visually striking stories,” said Chris McCarthy, President and CEO of Showtime/MTV Entertainment Studios. “And, Jez and John-Henry are masterful writers whose witty and emotionally charged language dives deep into their characters’ moral complexities, while simultaneously creating a propulsive narrative. Bringing these powerhouse...
- 3/5/2024
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Michael Fassbender has entered into talks to join the cast of the George Clooney espionage thriller series ‘The Department.’
Based on ‘The Bureau,’ the hit French spy show, the story centres on a member of a clandestine branch of the French Secret Services (Dgse) who returns to his home base after a six-year mission in Damascus. As he struggles to let go of his false identity and illicit affair with a Syrian woman, he finds himself playing a double game between the Dgse and the CIA.
Also in news – Tom Cruise in talks to join Alejandro González Iñárritu untitled project
Produced by MTV Entertainment Studios and 101 Studios, the series will be executive produced by Keith Cox and Nina L. Diaz of Mtve Studios; David Glasser, Ron Burkle, David Hutkin and Bob Yari of 101 Studios (“Yellowstone”); Alex Berger for The Originals Productions; and Ashley Stern and Pascal Breton for Federation Studios/Federation Entertainment of America.
Based on ‘The Bureau,’ the hit French spy show, the story centres on a member of a clandestine branch of the French Secret Services (Dgse) who returns to his home base after a six-year mission in Damascus. As he struggles to let go of his false identity and illicit affair with a Syrian woman, he finds himself playing a double game between the Dgse and the CIA.
Also in news – Tom Cruise in talks to join Alejandro González Iñárritu untitled project
Produced by MTV Entertainment Studios and 101 Studios, the series will be executive produced by Keith Cox and Nina L. Diaz of Mtve Studios; David Glasser, Ron Burkle, David Hutkin and Bob Yari of 101 Studios (“Yellowstone”); Alex Berger for The Originals Productions; and Ashley Stern and Pascal Breton for Federation Studios/Federation Entertainment of America.
- 2/28/2024
- by Zehra Phelan
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
Michael Fassbender is in negotiations to star in “The Department,” an espionage thriller series executive produced by George Clooney.
Set to start shooting in London this spring, “The Department” is based on “The Bureau,” the hit French spy show created, directed and produced by Eric Rochant. It has already been given a straight-to-series order by Showtime. The series is produced by Clooney and Grant Heslov’s Smokehouse Pictures, MTV Entertainment Studios and 101 Studios.
The original French show starred Matthieu Kassovitz as Guillaume Debailly — alias Paul Lefebvre, alias Malotru — a member of a clandestine branch of the French Secret Services (Dgse) who returns to his home base after a six-year mission in Damascus. As he struggles to let go of his false identity and illicit affair with a Syrian woman, he finds himself playing a double game between the Dgse and the CIA. The show was a smash hit on...
Set to start shooting in London this spring, “The Department” is based on “The Bureau,” the hit French spy show created, directed and produced by Eric Rochant. It has already been given a straight-to-series order by Showtime. The series is produced by Clooney and Grant Heslov’s Smokehouse Pictures, MTV Entertainment Studios and 101 Studios.
The original French show starred Matthieu Kassovitz as Guillaume Debailly — alias Paul Lefebvre, alias Malotru — a member of a clandestine branch of the French Secret Services (Dgse) who returns to his home base after a six-year mission in Damascus. As he struggles to let go of his false identity and illicit affair with a Syrian woman, he finds himself playing a double game between the Dgse and the CIA. The show was a smash hit on...
- 2/27/2024
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
Zurich Avenue, headed by producers and former Zurich Film Festival execs Karl Spoerri and Viviana Vezzani, has quickly amassed an impressive slate of projects since launching last year, including Annette Bening starrer “Nyad.”
Jimmy Chin and Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi’s film, which chronicles the attempt by 64-year-old swimmer Diana Nyad to swim from Cuba to Florida, unspools at the Zurich Film Festival. Zurich Avenue co-developed the Netflix film, which was produced by Black Bear Pictures and Mad Chance.
Part of financing group SPG3 Entertainment, likewise co-founded by Spoerri along with Urs Wietlisbach and Alfred Gantner in 2020, Zurich Avenue has provided the producers with a more hands-on approach, allowing them to create their own slate. The company’s recent films include Bill Pohlad’s critically-acclaimed “Dreamin’ Wild,” starring Casey Affleck and Zooey Deschanel; Coky Giedroyc’s Take That musical “Greatest Days”; and the forthcoming Josh Margolin action-comedy “Thelma,” starring June Squibb...
Jimmy Chin and Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi’s film, which chronicles the attempt by 64-year-old swimmer Diana Nyad to swim from Cuba to Florida, unspools at the Zurich Film Festival. Zurich Avenue co-developed the Netflix film, which was produced by Black Bear Pictures and Mad Chance.
Part of financing group SPG3 Entertainment, likewise co-founded by Spoerri along with Urs Wietlisbach and Alfred Gantner in 2020, Zurich Avenue has provided the producers with a more hands-on approach, allowing them to create their own slate. The company’s recent films include Bill Pohlad’s critically-acclaimed “Dreamin’ Wild,” starring Casey Affleck and Zooey Deschanel; Coky Giedroyc’s Take That musical “Greatest Days”; and the forthcoming Josh Margolin action-comedy “Thelma,” starring June Squibb...
- 9/30/2023
- by Ed Meza
- Variety Film + TV
“Charlie Harper,” starring Emilia Jones from Oscar-winning film “Coda,” has been sold to multiple international territories.
The film will be directed by Tom Dean and Mac Eldridge from a script written by Dean. Toby Wallace will star opposite Jones.
The film has been sold to Germany/Austria (Tobis), France (Snd), Japan (Kinoshita), Australia/New Zealand (Roadshow), Spain (TriPictures), Scandinavia (Sf Studios), Switzerland (Ascot Elite), Israel (Forum Film), South Africa (Empire), Latin America (Sun), Portugal (Nos), Greece (Odeon), Middle East (Front Row), Benelux (The Searchers), Baltics (Acme), and Eastern Europe (Unicorn).
“Charlie Harper” follows the journey of a young woman, Harper (Jones), and a young man, Charlie (Wallace), as they meet, leave their respective homes, and attempt to build a life together in a new city. But as the driven and ambitious Harper works to build a career as a chef, and the brilliant-yet-stuck Charlie struggles to get himself on track,...
The film will be directed by Tom Dean and Mac Eldridge from a script written by Dean. Toby Wallace will star opposite Jones.
The film has been sold to Germany/Austria (Tobis), France (Snd), Japan (Kinoshita), Australia/New Zealand (Roadshow), Spain (TriPictures), Scandinavia (Sf Studios), Switzerland (Ascot Elite), Israel (Forum Film), South Africa (Empire), Latin America (Sun), Portugal (Nos), Greece (Odeon), Middle East (Front Row), Benelux (The Searchers), Baltics (Acme), and Eastern Europe (Unicorn).
“Charlie Harper” follows the journey of a young woman, Harper (Jones), and a young man, Charlie (Wallace), as they meet, leave their respective homes, and attempt to build a life together in a new city. But as the driven and ambitious Harper works to build a career as a chef, and the brilliant-yet-stuck Charlie struggles to get himself on track,...
- 5/31/2023
- by Leo Barraclough
- Variety Film + TV
Picture Perfect Federation, Little Ray Media, Temple Hill Entertainment producing.
Patrick Wachsberger’s Picture Perfect Federation, Little Ray Media, and Temple Hill Entertainment have reported brisk international sales in Cannes on Charlie Harper starring Emilia Jones following her breakout role in the Oscar-winner Coda.
Cannes sales veteran Wachsberger, who produced Coda, closed a raft of deals on the Croisette led by France (Snd), Germany/Austria (Tobis), Latin America (Sun), Scandinavia (Sf Studios), and Middle East (Front Row).
Rights have also gone in Australia/New Zealand (Roadshow), Japan (Kinoshita), Benelux (The Searchers), Spain (Tripictures), Portugal (Nos Lusomundo), Eastern Europe (Unicorn), Switzerland...
Patrick Wachsberger’s Picture Perfect Federation, Little Ray Media, and Temple Hill Entertainment have reported brisk international sales in Cannes on Charlie Harper starring Emilia Jones following her breakout role in the Oscar-winner Coda.
Cannes sales veteran Wachsberger, who produced Coda, closed a raft of deals on the Croisette led by France (Snd), Germany/Austria (Tobis), Latin America (Sun), Scandinavia (Sf Studios), and Middle East (Front Row).
Rights have also gone in Australia/New Zealand (Roadshow), Japan (Kinoshita), Benelux (The Searchers), Spain (Tripictures), Portugal (Nos Lusomundo), Eastern Europe (Unicorn), Switzerland...
- 5/31/2023
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
The romance movie Charlie Harper, starring Coda breakout Emilia Jones and Toby Wallace (Babyteeth, FX’s Pistol), has sold to various international markets after being presented to buyers at the Cannes film market.
To be directed by Tom Dean and Mac Eldridge from a script written by Dean, the film will be produced by Picture Perfect Federation’s Patrick Wachsberger and Ashley Stern, Little Ray Media’s Mallory Edens and Temple Hill Entertainment’s Wyck Godfrey and Marty Bowen. Temple Hill’s Laura Quicksilver will executive produce.
Charlie Harper reunites Wachsberger with Temple Hill following their partnership on the Twilight franchise.
It follows a young woman, Harper (Jones), and a young man, Charlie (Wallace), as they meet, leave their respective homes and attempt to build a life together in a new city. “But as the driven and ambitious Harper works to build a career as a chef, and the brilliant-yet-stuck...
To be directed by Tom Dean and Mac Eldridge from a script written by Dean, the film will be produced by Picture Perfect Federation’s Patrick Wachsberger and Ashley Stern, Little Ray Media’s Mallory Edens and Temple Hill Entertainment’s Wyck Godfrey and Marty Bowen. Temple Hill’s Laura Quicksilver will executive produce.
Charlie Harper reunites Wachsberger with Temple Hill following their partnership on the Twilight franchise.
It follows a young woman, Harper (Jones), and a young man, Charlie (Wallace), as they meet, leave their respective homes and attempt to build a life together in a new city. “But as the driven and ambitious Harper works to build a career as a chef, and the brilliant-yet-stuck...
- 5/31/2023
- by Georg Szalai
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Romance pic Charlie Harper, starring Coda actor Emilia Jones alongside Toby Wallace (Babyteeth), has inked a series of international deals out of last week’s Cannes Market.
Reported deals include Switzerland (Ascot Elite), Israel (Forum Film), South Africa (Empire), Japan (Kinoshita), Latin America (Sun), Germany/Austria (Tobis), Scandinavia (Sf Studios), Portugal (Nos), France (Snd), Greece (Odeon), Middle East (Front Row), Benelux (The Searchers), Spain (Tripictures), Baltics (Acme), Eastern Europe (Unicorn), and Australia/New Zealand (Roadshow).
The project was brought to the market by Picture Perfect Federation, Little Ray Media, and Temple Hill Entertainment. UTA is co-representing domestic sales of the title.
Plot follows the journey of a young woman, Harper (Jones), and a young man, Charlie (Wallace), as they meet, leave their respective homes, and attempt to build a life together in a new city. As the driven and ambitious Harper works to build a career as a chef and...
Reported deals include Switzerland (Ascot Elite), Israel (Forum Film), South Africa (Empire), Japan (Kinoshita), Latin America (Sun), Germany/Austria (Tobis), Scandinavia (Sf Studios), Portugal (Nos), France (Snd), Greece (Odeon), Middle East (Front Row), Benelux (The Searchers), Spain (Tripictures), Baltics (Acme), Eastern Europe (Unicorn), and Australia/New Zealand (Roadshow).
The project was brought to the market by Picture Perfect Federation, Little Ray Media, and Temple Hill Entertainment. UTA is co-representing domestic sales of the title.
Plot follows the journey of a young woman, Harper (Jones), and a young man, Charlie (Wallace), as they meet, leave their respective homes, and attempt to build a life together in a new city. As the driven and ambitious Harper works to build a career as a chef and...
- 5/31/2023
- by Zac Ntim
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Coda star Emilia Jones is set to star in romance Charlie Harper, which Picture Perfect Federation is launching for sales at next week’s upcoming Cannes market.
The film will reunite former Lionsgate film co-chief Patrick Wachsberger with Twilight producers Temple Hill Entertainment. It also reunites Wachsberger with Jones after they collaborated on Oscar winner Coda.
Little Ray Media also produces the movie which has Toby Wallace (Babyteeth) in talks to join as co-lead. UTA is co-repping domestic.
Pic follows the journey of a young woman, Harper (Jones), and a young man, Charlie (Wallace), as they meet, leave their respective homes, and attempt to build a life together in a new city. As the driven and ambitious Harper works to build a career as a chef, and the brilliant-yet-stuck Charlie struggles to get himself on track, their relationship faces growing challenges. The movie “will include jumps in time and...
The film will reunite former Lionsgate film co-chief Patrick Wachsberger with Twilight producers Temple Hill Entertainment. It also reunites Wachsberger with Jones after they collaborated on Oscar winner Coda.
Little Ray Media also produces the movie which has Toby Wallace (Babyteeth) in talks to join as co-lead. UTA is co-repping domestic.
Pic follows the journey of a young woman, Harper (Jones), and a young man, Charlie (Wallace), as they meet, leave their respective homes, and attempt to build a life together in a new city. As the driven and ambitious Harper works to build a career as a chef, and the brilliant-yet-stuck Charlie struggles to get himself on track, their relationship faces growing challenges. The movie “will include jumps in time and...
- 5/12/2023
- by Andreas Wiseman
- Deadline Film + TV
Benedict Wong, Bel-Air star Jabari Banks, and Callina Liang are set to star in the English-language remake of Thai hit Bad Genius.
Picturestart and Picture Perfect Federation are behind the project that will be directed by Jc Lee from a script he wrote with Julius Onah. Shooting is expected to begin this May.
The film’s synopsis describes it as “a high-stakes, high-octane thriller about a diverse group of young people who team up to fight the system of injustice and inequity and take down the rigged academic institutions around them.”
The original film, titled Chalard Games Goeng (Bad Genius), was written and directed by Nattawut Poonpiriya and produced by Thai film studio Gdh 559 Company Limited. Released in 2017, the film broke box office records in Thailand, including becoming the highest-grossing Thai film of the year.
Erik Feig and Jessica Switch will produce via the Picturestart with Picture Perfect Federation’s...
Picturestart and Picture Perfect Federation are behind the project that will be directed by Jc Lee from a script he wrote with Julius Onah. Shooting is expected to begin this May.
The film’s synopsis describes it as “a high-stakes, high-octane thriller about a diverse group of young people who team up to fight the system of injustice and inequity and take down the rigged academic institutions around them.”
The original film, titled Chalard Games Goeng (Bad Genius), was written and directed by Nattawut Poonpiriya and produced by Thai film studio Gdh 559 Company Limited. Released in 2017, the film broke box office records in Thailand, including becoming the highest-grossing Thai film of the year.
Erik Feig and Jessica Switch will produce via the Picturestart with Picture Perfect Federation’s...
- 3/23/2023
- by Mia Galuppo
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Major pre-sales closed ahead of scheduled May production start. Mallory Edens’ Little Ray Media financing.
Picturestart and Picture Perfect Federation have set Jc Lee to direct the English-language remake of Thai hit Bad Genius (Chalard Games Goeng) and have cast rising stars Callina Liang (Tell Me Everything) and Jabari Banks (Bel-Air) alongside Benedict Wong (Doctor Strange franchise).
Picture Perfect Federation has also announced a raft of pre-sales, closing deals for the UK (Studiocanal), Australia/ New Zealand (Roadshow), France (Metropolitan), Germany and Austria (Constantin), Italy (Leone), and Latin America (Sun).
Rights have also gone in Japan (Gaga), Benelux (Belga), Scandinavia (Nordisk...
Picturestart and Picture Perfect Federation have set Jc Lee to direct the English-language remake of Thai hit Bad Genius (Chalard Games Goeng) and have cast rising stars Callina Liang (Tell Me Everything) and Jabari Banks (Bel-Air) alongside Benedict Wong (Doctor Strange franchise).
Picture Perfect Federation has also announced a raft of pre-sales, closing deals for the UK (Studiocanal), Australia/ New Zealand (Roadshow), France (Metropolitan), Germany and Austria (Constantin), Italy (Leone), and Latin America (Sun).
Rights have also gone in Japan (Gaga), Benelux (Belga), Scandinavia (Nordisk...
- 3/23/2023
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
“Luce” writer Jc Lee is set to make his directorial debut with “Bad Genius,” the upcoming English-language remake of the 2017 hit Thai film “Chalard Games Goeng (Bad Genius).”
Picturestart and Picture Perfect Federation are producing the project, which will star Benedict Wong (“Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness”) alongside up-and-coming talent Callina Liang (“Tell Me Everything”) and Jabari Banks (“Bel-Air”). The film is financed by Mallory Edens’ Little Ray Media and will begin production in May.
The original film was written and directed by Nattawut Poonpiriya and produced by Thai film studio Gdh 559 Company Limited. The movie debuted at No. 1 at the Thai box office, quickly becoming the country’s highest-grossing Thai film of the year and, ultimately, the most internationally successful Thai film ever.
In addition to directing the remake, Lee reteams with “Luce” filmmaker Julius Onah to pen the script for “Bad Genius.” Their adaptation is described as “a high-stakes,...
Picturestart and Picture Perfect Federation are producing the project, which will star Benedict Wong (“Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness”) alongside up-and-coming talent Callina Liang (“Tell Me Everything”) and Jabari Banks (“Bel-Air”). The film is financed by Mallory Edens’ Little Ray Media and will begin production in May.
The original film was written and directed by Nattawut Poonpiriya and produced by Thai film studio Gdh 559 Company Limited. The movie debuted at No. 1 at the Thai box office, quickly becoming the country’s highest-grossing Thai film of the year and, ultimately, the most internationally successful Thai film ever.
In addition to directing the remake, Lee reteams with “Luce” filmmaker Julius Onah to pen the script for “Bad Genius.” Their adaptation is described as “a high-stakes,...
- 3/23/2023
- by Angelique Jackson
- Variety Film + TV
Picturestart and Picture Perfect Federation have set Jc Lee to direct the English-language remake of Thai hit Bad Genius and also announced key cast members as well as a raft of international presales.
Lee also takes co-writing credits for the English-language screenplay with Julius Onah, who was previously announced as the director. The pair previously collaborated on the Sundance 2019 title Luce, adapted from Lee’s original play of the same name.
Up-and-coming talents Callina Liang, star of Itvx teen drama Tell Me Everything, and Jabari Banks (Bel-Air) will star with veteran UK actor Benedict Wong (Doctor Stranger In The Multiverse Of Madness).
The English remake is billed as a high-stakes, high-octane thriller about a diverse group of young people who team up to fight the system of injustice and inequity and take down the rigged academic institutions around them.
It is produced by Erik Feig and Jessica Switch at Picturestart...
Lee also takes co-writing credits for the English-language screenplay with Julius Onah, who was previously announced as the director. The pair previously collaborated on the Sundance 2019 title Luce, adapted from Lee’s original play of the same name.
Up-and-coming talents Callina Liang, star of Itvx teen drama Tell Me Everything, and Jabari Banks (Bel-Air) will star with veteran UK actor Benedict Wong (Doctor Stranger In The Multiverse Of Madness).
The English remake is billed as a high-stakes, high-octane thriller about a diverse group of young people who team up to fight the system of injustice and inequity and take down the rigged academic institutions around them.
It is produced by Erik Feig and Jessica Switch at Picturestart...
- 3/23/2023
- by Melanie Goodfellow
- Deadline Film + TV
George Clooney will be venturing behind the camera once again to take the helm of Showtime’s political thriller series ‘The Department.’
Based on the series ‘The Bureau,’ “it will follow in the great tradition of ‘Homeland,’ one of the most successful and brand-defining shows at Showtime,” said Chris McCarthy, president and CEO of Showtime and Paramount Media. “Just as ‘Homeland’ elevated global espionage to new heights, ‘The Department’ will take viewers even deeper into a world of intrigue and subterfuge with complicated characters who struggle with their own demons as they fight existential threats to the nation and the world.”
The show centres on “the daily life and missions of agents within France’s principal external security service. It focuses on the ‘Bureau of Legends,’ responsible for training and handling deep-cover agents on long-term missions in areas with French interests. Living under false identities for years, these agents’ missions...
Based on the series ‘The Bureau,’ “it will follow in the great tradition of ‘Homeland,’ one of the most successful and brand-defining shows at Showtime,” said Chris McCarthy, president and CEO of Showtime and Paramount Media. “Just as ‘Homeland’ elevated global espionage to new heights, ‘The Department’ will take viewers even deeper into a world of intrigue and subterfuge with complicated characters who struggle with their own demons as they fight existential threats to the nation and the world.”
The show centres on “the daily life and missions of agents within France’s principal external security service. It focuses on the ‘Bureau of Legends,’ responsible for training and handling deep-cover agents on long-term missions in areas with French interests. Living under false identities for years, these agents’ missions...
- 2/8/2023
- by Zehra Phelan
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
Showtime is teaming up with George Clooney.
The cabler on Monday handed out a straight-to-series order for The Department (working title), an adaptation of Le Bureau des Legendes.
Clooney and Grant Heslov will executive produce through their Smokehouse Pictures, with MTV Entertainment Studios and 101 Studios set to produce.
"The Department, based on the riveting and brilliant series The Bureau, will follow in the great tradition of Homeland, one of the most successful and brand-defining shows at Showtime," said Chris McCarthy, President/CEO of Showtime and Paramount Media.
"Just as Homeland elevated global espionage to new heights, The Department will take viewers even deeper into a world of intrigue and subterfuge with complicated characters who struggle with their own demons as they fight existential threats to the nation and the world."
Le Bureau centers on the daily life and missions of agents within France's principal external security service.
It focuses on the "Bureau of Legends,...
The cabler on Monday handed out a straight-to-series order for The Department (working title), an adaptation of Le Bureau des Legendes.
Clooney and Grant Heslov will executive produce through their Smokehouse Pictures, with MTV Entertainment Studios and 101 Studios set to produce.
"The Department, based on the riveting and brilliant series The Bureau, will follow in the great tradition of Homeland, one of the most successful and brand-defining shows at Showtime," said Chris McCarthy, President/CEO of Showtime and Paramount Media.
"Just as Homeland elevated global espionage to new heights, The Department will take viewers even deeper into a world of intrigue and subterfuge with complicated characters who struggle with their own demons as they fight existential threats to the nation and the world."
Le Bureau centers on the daily life and missions of agents within France's principal external security service.
It focuses on the "Bureau of Legends,...
- 2/6/2023
- by Paul Dailly
- TVfanatic
George Clooney will direct and executive produce a political thriller series for Showtime called “The Department,” which has been given a straight-to-series order by the network. Clooney and Grant Heslov will executive produce through their Smokehouse Pictures with MTV Entertainment Studios and 101 Studios set to produce.
The show is based on the acclaimed French drama series “Le Bureau des Legendes,” and Showtime and Paramount Media President/CEO Chris McCarthy compared this American adaptation to the network’s Emmy-winning hit series “Homeland.”
“’The Department,’ based on the riveting and brilliant series ‘The Bureau,’ will follow in the great tradition of ‘Homeland’, one of the most successful and brand-defining shows at Showtime,” said McCarthy. “Just as ‘Homeland’ elevated global espionage to new heights, ‘The Department’ will take viewers even deeper into a world of intrigue and subterfuge with complicated characters who struggle with their own demons as they fight existential threats...
The show is based on the acclaimed French drama series “Le Bureau des Legendes,” and Showtime and Paramount Media President/CEO Chris McCarthy compared this American adaptation to the network’s Emmy-winning hit series “Homeland.”
“’The Department,’ based on the riveting and brilliant series ‘The Bureau,’ will follow in the great tradition of ‘Homeland’, one of the most successful and brand-defining shows at Showtime,” said McCarthy. “Just as ‘Homeland’ elevated global espionage to new heights, ‘The Department’ will take viewers even deeper into a world of intrigue and subterfuge with complicated characters who struggle with their own demons as they fight existential threats...
- 2/6/2023
- by Adam Chitwood
- The Wrap
Showtime has given a straight-to-series order to The Department (w/t) based on the acclaimed French espionage political thriller The Bureau, from George Clooney and Grant Heslov’s Smokehouse Pictures, MTV Entertainment Studios and 101 Studios. Clooney will direct the series and also executive produce with Heslov through their Smokehouse Pictures. Production is slated to begin later this year.
Created by Eric Rochant, Le Bureau centers on the daily life and missions of agents within France’s principal external security service. It focuses on the “Bureau of Legends,” responsible for training and handling deep-cover agents on long-term missions in areas with French interests. Living under false identities for years, these agents’ missions are to identify and recruit good intelligence sources.
The Department, based on the riveting and brilliant series The Bureau, will follow in the great tradition of Homeland, one of the most successful and brand-defining shows at Showtime,” said Chris McCarthy,...
Created by Eric Rochant, Le Bureau centers on the daily life and missions of agents within France’s principal external security service. It focuses on the “Bureau of Legends,” responsible for training and handling deep-cover agents on long-term missions in areas with French interests. Living under false identities for years, these agents’ missions are to identify and recruit good intelligence sources.
The Department, based on the riveting and brilliant series The Bureau, will follow in the great tradition of Homeland, one of the most successful and brand-defining shows at Showtime,” said Chris McCarthy,...
- 2/6/2023
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Showtime has given a straight-to-series order to the political thriller series “The Department,” with George Clooney attached to direct.
Clooney and Grant Heslov will also serve as executive producers via Smokehouse Pictures. The show is based on the French series “Le Bureau des Legendes.” Production is slated to start later this year.
“‘The Department,’ based on the riveting and brilliant series ‘The Bureau,’ will follow in the great tradition of ‘Homeland,’ one of the most successful and brand-defining shows at Showtime,” said Chris McCarthy, president and CEO of Showtime and Paramount Media. “Just as ‘Homeland’ elevated global espionage to new heights, ‘The Department’ will take viewers even deeper into a world of intrigue and subterfuge with complicated characters who struggle with their own demons as they fight existential threats to the nation and the world.”
Per the official logline, the original show centers on “the daily life and missions of...
Clooney and Grant Heslov will also serve as executive producers via Smokehouse Pictures. The show is based on the French series “Le Bureau des Legendes.” Production is slated to start later this year.
“‘The Department,’ based on the riveting and brilliant series ‘The Bureau,’ will follow in the great tradition of ‘Homeland,’ one of the most successful and brand-defining shows at Showtime,” said Chris McCarthy, president and CEO of Showtime and Paramount Media. “Just as ‘Homeland’ elevated global espionage to new heights, ‘The Department’ will take viewers even deeper into a world of intrigue and subterfuge with complicated characters who struggle with their own demons as they fight existential threats to the nation and the world.”
Per the official logline, the original show centers on “the daily life and missions of...
- 2/6/2023
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Picture Perfect Federation and Zurich Avenue have teamed to acquire Jeneva Rose’s bestselling psychological thriller debut novel The Perfect Marriage. The film will be directed by Sigal Avin (Losing Alice), and the script is by Oscar-nominated scribe William Broyles (Apollo 13 and Cast Away).
The film will be produced by Patrick Wachsberger, who’s coming off Best Picture for Coda, and Ashley Stern for Picture Perfect Federation. Zurich Avenue’s Karl Spoerri and Viviana Vezzani are exec producing alongside Broyles and Lenore Entertainment Group’s Adam Berkowitz, Avin’s manager. Olivia Wachsberger is co-executive producer.
Sarah Morgan is a successful defense attorney whose life gets flipped upside down when her husband is accused of murdering his mistress. She decides to take her husband’s case and at trial, the couple is pulled into a twisted game of cat and mouse as they re-examine their relationship while dealing with life-changing consequences.
The film will be produced by Patrick Wachsberger, who’s coming off Best Picture for Coda, and Ashley Stern for Picture Perfect Federation. Zurich Avenue’s Karl Spoerri and Viviana Vezzani are exec producing alongside Broyles and Lenore Entertainment Group’s Adam Berkowitz, Avin’s manager. Olivia Wachsberger is co-executive producer.
Sarah Morgan is a successful defense attorney whose life gets flipped upside down when her husband is accused of murdering his mistress. She decides to take her husband’s case and at trial, the couple is pulled into a twisted game of cat and mouse as they re-examine their relationship while dealing with life-changing consequences.
- 10/20/2022
- by Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline Film + TV
The Independent Film & Television Alliance today unveiled new details, as to the programming and speakers to be featured at this year’s American Film Market.
The AFM Sessions put on at the Loews Beach Hotel in Santa Monica as part of the 43rd edition of the industry’s only independently produced sales market will consist of 30+ panels bringing together over 100 speakers from November 2-5, including film industry thought leaders Howard Cohen (Roadside Attractions), Ashley Stern (Picture Perfect Federation), Martin Moszkowicz (Constantin Film), Jeff Annison (Legion M), Jeffrey Greenstein (Millennium Media) and George Hamilton (Protagonist Pictures). Programming highlights include:
Finance: Strategies for Today’s VOD Dominated World
Maxime Cottray, XYZ Films, Peter Graham, 120 dB Films (Principal), Deirdre Owens, Cast & Crew and Jeremy Kay, Screen International (Americas Editor).
Forecasting the Future for Independent Film
David Fannon, Chicken Soup for the Soul Entertainment / Screen Media Ventures, Martin Moszkowicz, Constantin Film (President and Chairman), Ashley Stern, Picture Perfect Federation / Federation Entertainment of America (President) and Patrick Frater, Variety (Asia Editor).
Theatrical Marketplace Recovery for Independent Films
Howard Cohen, Roadside Attractions (Co-President & Co-Founder), Jeffrey Greenstein, Millennium Media (President), Scott Shooman, IFC Entertainment and Diana Lodderhose, Deadline, (International Features Editor).
Demystifying the Global VOD Landscape
Nick Isaak, Gravitas Ventures (VP of Sales), Peter Jarowey, Vertical Entertainment (Partner / CEO), Jason Pfardrescher, Well Go USA (EVP Digital Distribution), Kent Sanderson, Bleecker Street/ Decal and Stephanie Prange, Media Play News (Editor in Chief).
Inspiration is Everywhere: Accessing & Adapting Existing IP for the Screen
Margaret Boykin, Ubisoft Film & Television, Charles Hopkins, Concord Originals (Director of Development & Production) and James Vanderbilt, Project X Entertainment (Cco).
Independent Features with Big Profit Potential
Miranda Bailey, Cold Iron Pictures (CEO), Brian Beckmann, Arclight Films (CFO), George Hamilton, Protagonist Pictures (Cco), and Pip Ngo, XYZ Films (SVP of Sales & Acquisitions).
The Producer / Sales Agent Dynamic
Clay Epstein, Film Mode Entertainment (President), Delphine Perrier, Highland Film Group (COO), Mary Jane Skalski, Echo Lake Entertainment (President of Production / Producer), and Mimi Steinbaur, Radiant Films International (President & CEO).
The Innovators
Jeff Annison, Legion M (Co-Founder & President), Lindsey Ramey, Wattpad Webtoon Studios (Head of Global Film), Richard Botto, Stage 32 (Founder) and Alex Ferrari, Indie Film Hustle (Founder).
AFM’s programming will kick off the morning of November 2nd with the Finance Conference “The Risk Takers”, featuring Jason Cloth (Creative Wealth Media/Bron), Basil Iwanyk (Thunder Road Pictures), Laura Lewis (Rebelle Media), Milan Popelka (FilmNation), and Erich Schartzel (The Wall Street Journal), as previously announced.
Attendees will also be able to connect with Film Commissions, Government Agencies and Production Service Companies from more than 30 countries, who collectively are offering millions of dollars in production incentives, via AFM’s LocationEXPO. Exhibitors and LocationEXPO partners putting on presentations for participants include The Italian Trade Agency, The Polish Film Institute, The North Finland Film Commission and the Louisiana Office of Entertainment Industry Development.
This year’s installment of AFM will take place at the Loews Hotel and theatres throughout the city from November 1-6. More information on AFM’s current schedule and speakers, as well as its exhibitor list, can be found here and here, respectively. Check out the official poster for AFM 2022 above.
The AFM Sessions put on at the Loews Beach Hotel in Santa Monica as part of the 43rd edition of the industry’s only independently produced sales market will consist of 30+ panels bringing together over 100 speakers from November 2-5, including film industry thought leaders Howard Cohen (Roadside Attractions), Ashley Stern (Picture Perfect Federation), Martin Moszkowicz (Constantin Film), Jeff Annison (Legion M), Jeffrey Greenstein (Millennium Media) and George Hamilton (Protagonist Pictures). Programming highlights include:
Finance: Strategies for Today’s VOD Dominated World
Maxime Cottray, XYZ Films, Peter Graham, 120 dB Films (Principal), Deirdre Owens, Cast & Crew and Jeremy Kay, Screen International (Americas Editor).
Forecasting the Future for Independent Film
David Fannon, Chicken Soup for the Soul Entertainment / Screen Media Ventures, Martin Moszkowicz, Constantin Film (President and Chairman), Ashley Stern, Picture Perfect Federation / Federation Entertainment of America (President) and Patrick Frater, Variety (Asia Editor).
Theatrical Marketplace Recovery for Independent Films
Howard Cohen, Roadside Attractions (Co-President & Co-Founder), Jeffrey Greenstein, Millennium Media (President), Scott Shooman, IFC Entertainment and Diana Lodderhose, Deadline, (International Features Editor).
Demystifying the Global VOD Landscape
Nick Isaak, Gravitas Ventures (VP of Sales), Peter Jarowey, Vertical Entertainment (Partner / CEO), Jason Pfardrescher, Well Go USA (EVP Digital Distribution), Kent Sanderson, Bleecker Street/ Decal and Stephanie Prange, Media Play News (Editor in Chief).
Inspiration is Everywhere: Accessing & Adapting Existing IP for the Screen
Margaret Boykin, Ubisoft Film & Television, Charles Hopkins, Concord Originals (Director of Development & Production) and James Vanderbilt, Project X Entertainment (Cco).
Independent Features with Big Profit Potential
Miranda Bailey, Cold Iron Pictures (CEO), Brian Beckmann, Arclight Films (CFO), George Hamilton, Protagonist Pictures (Cco), and Pip Ngo, XYZ Films (SVP of Sales & Acquisitions).
The Producer / Sales Agent Dynamic
Clay Epstein, Film Mode Entertainment (President), Delphine Perrier, Highland Film Group (COO), Mary Jane Skalski, Echo Lake Entertainment (President of Production / Producer), and Mimi Steinbaur, Radiant Films International (President & CEO).
The Innovators
Jeff Annison, Legion M (Co-Founder & President), Lindsey Ramey, Wattpad Webtoon Studios (Head of Global Film), Richard Botto, Stage 32 (Founder) and Alex Ferrari, Indie Film Hustle (Founder).
AFM’s programming will kick off the morning of November 2nd with the Finance Conference “The Risk Takers”, featuring Jason Cloth (Creative Wealth Media/Bron), Basil Iwanyk (Thunder Road Pictures), Laura Lewis (Rebelle Media), Milan Popelka (FilmNation), and Erich Schartzel (The Wall Street Journal), as previously announced.
Attendees will also be able to connect with Film Commissions, Government Agencies and Production Service Companies from more than 30 countries, who collectively are offering millions of dollars in production incentives, via AFM’s LocationEXPO. Exhibitors and LocationEXPO partners putting on presentations for participants include The Italian Trade Agency, The Polish Film Institute, The North Finland Film Commission and the Louisiana Office of Entertainment Industry Development.
This year’s installment of AFM will take place at the Loews Hotel and theatres throughout the city from November 1-6. More information on AFM’s current schedule and speakers, as well as its exhibitor list, can be found here and here, respectively. Check out the official poster for AFM 2022 above.
- 10/14/2022
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
The American Film Market has announced more speakers set to descend on Santa Monica in early November for its first in-person event since 2019.
The latest panelists for Nov. 2 to 5 appearances include Howard Cohen, co-president of Roadside Attractions; Ashley Stern of the Picture Perfect Federation banner; Constantin Film CEO Martin Moszkowicz; Legion M co-founder Jeff Annison; Jeffrey Greenstein, president of Millennium Media; and George Hamilton, chief commercial officer at Protagonist Pictures.
AFM’s 43rd edition will take place at the Loews Beach Hotel and theaters across Santa Monica from Nov. 1 to 6. The Independent Film & Television Alliance has confirmed around 100 speakers for panels on film finance, the future of indie film producers, the recovery in the theatrical marketplace, and the global streaming space.
There’s also a panel on adapting IP for cross-platform screens, to include Margaret Boykin, vp of development at Ubisoft Film & Television,...
The American Film Market has announced more speakers set to descend on Santa Monica in early November for its first in-person event since 2019.
The latest panelists for Nov. 2 to 5 appearances include Howard Cohen, co-president of Roadside Attractions; Ashley Stern of the Picture Perfect Federation banner; Constantin Film CEO Martin Moszkowicz; Legion M co-founder Jeff Annison; Jeffrey Greenstein, president of Millennium Media; and George Hamilton, chief commercial officer at Protagonist Pictures.
AFM’s 43rd edition will take place at the Loews Beach Hotel and theaters across Santa Monica from Nov. 1 to 6. The Independent Film & Television Alliance has confirmed around 100 speakers for panels on film finance, the future of indie film producers, the recovery in the theatrical marketplace, and the global streaming space.
There’s also a panel on adapting IP for cross-platform screens, to include Margaret Boykin, vp of development at Ubisoft Film & Television,...
- 10/14/2022
- by Etan Vlessing
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Finance Conference runs November 2-5; AFM runs November 1-6.
Top executives from Constantin Film, Thunder Road, FilmNation, Millennium Media, and Protagonist Pictures will take part in 2022 AFM’s sessions, market heads said on Friday (October 14) as they also highlighted LocationEXPO.
The in-person 43rd edition of AFM in Santa Monica will host more than 30 sessions featuring more than 100 speakers from November 2-5 at the Loews Hotel. Market heads have brought the Finance Conference sessions back to the AFM hub after staging them at Fairmont Miramar for some years prior to the pandemic.
As previously announced, AFM programming will kick off with...
Top executives from Constantin Film, Thunder Road, FilmNation, Millennium Media, and Protagonist Pictures will take part in 2022 AFM’s sessions, market heads said on Friday (October 14) as they also highlighted LocationEXPO.
The in-person 43rd edition of AFM in Santa Monica will host more than 30 sessions featuring more than 100 speakers from November 2-5 at the Loews Hotel. Market heads have brought the Finance Conference sessions back to the AFM hub after staging them at Fairmont Miramar for some years prior to the pandemic.
As previously announced, AFM programming will kick off with...
- 10/14/2022
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Exclusive: Erik Feig’s Picturestart and Patrick Wachsberger’s Picture Perfect Federation have set Luce and Cloverfield Paradox filmmaker Julius Onah to direct their college admissions thriller Bad Genius, which is gearing up for a summer shoot.
Luce scribe J.C. Lee, whose credits as a writer and co-producer also include series such as How To Get Away With Murder and Looking, has scripted the feature with Onah.
As previously announced, the film is an English-language remake of the hit 2017 Thai film by Nattawut Poonpiriya. The US-set adaptation is being described as a high-octane thriller about a group of entrepreneurial high school seniors who team up to take down a rigged college admissions system. Casting discussions are underway.
Former Lionsgate film chiefs Wachsberger and Feig are producing and will be overseeing sales and finance in coming weeks. International distributors are expected to be a key part of the finance.
Both execs...
Luce scribe J.C. Lee, whose credits as a writer and co-producer also include series such as How To Get Away With Murder and Looking, has scripted the feature with Onah.
As previously announced, the film is an English-language remake of the hit 2017 Thai film by Nattawut Poonpiriya. The US-set adaptation is being described as a high-octane thriller about a group of entrepreneurial high school seniors who team up to take down a rigged college admissions system. Casting discussions are underway.
Former Lionsgate film chiefs Wachsberger and Feig are producing and will be overseeing sales and finance in coming weeks. International distributors are expected to be a key part of the finance.
Both execs...
- 2/4/2022
- by Andreas Wiseman
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Picture Perfect Federation, which recently tapped Coda filmmaker Siân Heder to write and direct a feature adaptation of Sarah Lotz’s novel Impossible, is getting into the scripted podcast business.
The company, which is a joint venture between Picture Perfect Entertainment and Federation Entertainment, has struck a first-look deal with podcast platform PodcastOne to develop scripted audio series.
The multi-year deal will see Picture Perfect Entertainment’s Patrick Wachsberger and his team, including Ashley Stern, President of Federation Entertainment of America, and Sera Tabb, Vice President of Development for Picture Perfect Federation launch new series.
The aim is create scripted content across multiple genres with an eye to package the resulting audio IP for television, film and streaming platforms as co-productions between Picture Perfect Federation and the LiveXLive Media-owned company.
PodcastOne is the company behind A&e’s Cold Case Files, The Adam Carolla Show and Hotboxin with Mike Tyson.
The company, which is a joint venture between Picture Perfect Entertainment and Federation Entertainment, has struck a first-look deal with podcast platform PodcastOne to develop scripted audio series.
The multi-year deal will see Picture Perfect Entertainment’s Patrick Wachsberger and his team, including Ashley Stern, President of Federation Entertainment of America, and Sera Tabb, Vice President of Development for Picture Perfect Federation launch new series.
The aim is create scripted content across multiple genres with an eye to package the resulting audio IP for television, film and streaming platforms as co-productions between Picture Perfect Federation and the LiveXLive Media-owned company.
PodcastOne is the company behind A&e’s Cold Case Files, The Adam Carolla Show and Hotboxin with Mike Tyson.
- 5/5/2021
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Filmmaker Siân Heder, whose Sundance hit Coda was recently sold to Apple for a festival record of $25M, is set to direct and write a feature take of Sarah Lotz’s upcoming 2022 novel Impossible.
The Penguin Group Berkley Books novel tells the story of Nick, a ghostwriter who is a disappointment to himself and his soon-to-be-ex-wife, and Bee, a commitment-phobe content on repurposing wedding dresses rather than finding a reason to wear one herself. The two are meant to be together, but fate has other plans. They have an instant connection after a misdirected email lands in Bee’s inbox, and over time they develop real feelings for each other. Eventually, Nick and Bee come to the conclusion that they have to meet in person, yet when they both arrive at their planned destination, they discover it’s love at the right time, but in the completely wrong place.
Patrick Wachsberger...
The Penguin Group Berkley Books novel tells the story of Nick, a ghostwriter who is a disappointment to himself and his soon-to-be-ex-wife, and Bee, a commitment-phobe content on repurposing wedding dresses rather than finding a reason to wear one herself. The two are meant to be together, but fate has other plans. They have an instant connection after a misdirected email lands in Bee’s inbox, and over time they develop real feelings for each other. Eventually, Nick and Bee come to the conclusion that they have to meet in person, yet when they both arrive at their planned destination, they discover it’s love at the right time, but in the completely wrong place.
Patrick Wachsberger...
- 4/29/2021
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Following the success of Sundance-winning “Coda,” Patrick Wachsberger’s Picture Perfect Federation is reteaming with up-and-coming writer-helmer Siân Heder on her next directorial outing, “Impossible.” Picture Perfect Federation is developing the contemporary romantic comedy with Black Label Media.
“Impossible” is based on a novel of the same title written by Sarah Lotz, and is being produced by Wachsberger and Ashley Stern via Picture Perfect Federation; Molly Smith, Trent Luckinbill and Thad Luckinbill via Black Label Media; and Sherry Marsh via Marsh Entertainment.
“Impossible” tells the story of Nick, a ghostwriter who is a disappointment to himself and his soon-to-be ex-wife, and Bee, a commitment-phobe content on repurposing wedding dresses rather than finding a reason to wear one herself. The two are meant to be together, but fate has other plans.
“I am pleased to once again work with the incredibly talented Siân Heder, one of the world’s most promising writer/directors,...
“Impossible” is based on a novel of the same title written by Sarah Lotz, and is being produced by Wachsberger and Ashley Stern via Picture Perfect Federation; Molly Smith, Trent Luckinbill and Thad Luckinbill via Black Label Media; and Sherry Marsh via Marsh Entertainment.
“Impossible” tells the story of Nick, a ghostwriter who is a disappointment to himself and his soon-to-be ex-wife, and Bee, a commitment-phobe content on repurposing wedding dresses rather than finding a reason to wear one herself. The two are meant to be together, but fate has other plans.
“I am pleased to once again work with the incredibly talented Siân Heder, one of the world’s most promising writer/directors,...
- 4/29/2021
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
Heder wrote and will direct project based on Sarah Lotz’s forthcoming novel of same name.
Patrick Wachsberger and writer-director Siân Heder are reuniting following their Sundance sensation Coda, with Wachsberger’s Picture Perfect Federation teaming with Black Label Media and Marsh Entertainment to develop the rom-com feature Impossible.
Heder wrote and will direct the project based on Sarah Lotz’s forthcoming novel of the same name about Nick, a ghostwriter who is a disappointment to himself and his soon-to-be-ex-wife, and Bee, a commitment-phobe content on repurposing wedding dresses rather than finding a reason to wear one herself.
The two are meant to be together,...
Patrick Wachsberger and writer-director Siân Heder are reuniting following their Sundance sensation Coda, with Wachsberger’s Picture Perfect Federation teaming with Black Label Media and Marsh Entertainment to develop the rom-com feature Impossible.
Heder wrote and will direct the project based on Sarah Lotz’s forthcoming novel of the same name about Nick, a ghostwriter who is a disappointment to himself and his soon-to-be-ex-wife, and Bee, a commitment-phobe content on repurposing wedding dresses rather than finding a reason to wear one herself.
The two are meant to be together,...
- 4/29/2021
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Film is based on the novel of the same name by Sarah Lotz
“Coda” director Sian Heder is reuniting with the film’s producer Patrick Wachsberger and his Picture Perfect Federation to develop a feature film titled “Impossible.”
Heder will write and directed the project, based on a novel of the same name written by Sarah Lotz. Ashley Stern is also producing via Picture Perfect Federation, alongside Molly Smith, Trent Luckinbill and Thad Luckinbill for Black Label Media, as well as Sherry Marsh for Marsh Entertainment.
“Impossible” tells the story of Nick, a ghostwriter who is disappointed in himself, and Bee, his soon-to-be ex-wife. Their relationships starts over a misdirected email that lands in Bee’s inbox, and they develop feelings for each other over time. However, when they meet in person, they realize it’s love at the right time, but at not the wrong place.
“‘Impossible’ takes an...
“Coda” director Sian Heder is reuniting with the film’s producer Patrick Wachsberger and his Picture Perfect Federation to develop a feature film titled “Impossible.”
Heder will write and directed the project, based on a novel of the same name written by Sarah Lotz. Ashley Stern is also producing via Picture Perfect Federation, alongside Molly Smith, Trent Luckinbill and Thad Luckinbill for Black Label Media, as well as Sherry Marsh for Marsh Entertainment.
“Impossible” tells the story of Nick, a ghostwriter who is disappointed in himself, and Bee, his soon-to-be ex-wife. Their relationships starts over a misdirected email that lands in Bee’s inbox, and they develop feelings for each other over time. However, when they meet in person, they realize it’s love at the right time, but at not the wrong place.
“‘Impossible’ takes an...
- 4/29/2021
- by Beatrice Verhoeven
- The Wrap
Heder wrote and will direct project based on Sarah Lotz’s forthcoming novel of same name.
Patrick Wachsberger and writer-director Siân Heder are reuniting following their Sundance sensation Coda, with Wachsberger’s Picture Perfect Federation teaming with Black Label Media and Marsh Entertainment to develop the feature Impossible.
Heder wrote and will direct the project based on Sarah Lotz’s forthcoming novel of the same name about Nick, a ghostwriter who is a disappointment to himself and his soon-to-be-ex-wife, and Bee, a commitment-phobe content on repurposing wedding dresses rather than finding a reason to wear one herself.
The two are meant to be together,...
Patrick Wachsberger and writer-director Siân Heder are reuniting following their Sundance sensation Coda, with Wachsberger’s Picture Perfect Federation teaming with Black Label Media and Marsh Entertainment to develop the feature Impossible.
Heder wrote and will direct the project based on Sarah Lotz’s forthcoming novel of the same name about Nick, a ghostwriter who is a disappointment to himself and his soon-to-be-ex-wife, and Bee, a commitment-phobe content on repurposing wedding dresses rather than finding a reason to wear one herself.
The two are meant to be together,...
- 4/29/2021
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Amy Jenkins, the creator and showrunner of the BBC series “This Life” and writer on Netflix’s “The Crown,” is set to adapt Allison Pataki’s “Sisi” novels, which are based on the life of Empress Elisabeth of Austria.
The female-driven period TV series is being developed by Picture Perfect Federation, the joint venture between former Lionsgate honcho Patrick Wachsberger and Federation Entertainment’s Pascal Breton, as well as Michael Shamberg’s (“Erin Brockovich”) Mas Production.
Based on Pataki’s two bestselling novels, “The Accidental Empress” and “Sisi: Empress on Her Own,” the modern series will tell the journey of a strong-willed woman who learns to accept and embrace her power in a male dominated world. Shedding light on one of Europe’s most powerful royal families, the series will span the period from 1853 up until the start of World War I.
“Sisi was an extraordinary young empress,” Jenkins said.
The female-driven period TV series is being developed by Picture Perfect Federation, the joint venture between former Lionsgate honcho Patrick Wachsberger and Federation Entertainment’s Pascal Breton, as well as Michael Shamberg’s (“Erin Brockovich”) Mas Production.
Based on Pataki’s two bestselling novels, “The Accidental Empress” and “Sisi: Empress on Her Own,” the modern series will tell the journey of a strong-willed woman who learns to accept and embrace her power in a male dominated world. Shedding light on one of Europe’s most powerful royal families, the series will span the period from 1853 up until the start of World War I.
“Sisi was an extraordinary young empress,” Jenkins said.
- 10/10/2019
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
Alec Bojalad Jul 27, 2019
Amazon Prime has ordered The Banker's Wife, an adaptation of the best-selling adventure novel, to series.
Thanks to the John Krasinski-starring Tom Clancy's Jack Ryan, Amazon Prime knows what kind of success a good old-fashioned action novel adaptation can bring. Now they want to try it out again.
Amazon has ordered an adaptation of best-selling thriller novel, The Banker's Wife, to series. Jennifer Salke, Head of Amazon Studios, made the announcement during the streamer's Summer 2019 TCA press tour appearance.
The Banker's Wife adaptation for Amazon Prime will feature eight episodes. Meredith Stiehm (Homeland) will write all eight episodes. Lesli Linka Glatter will direct all eight episodes. The project will be produced by Amazon Studios and Federation Entertainment. Steihm and Glatter will serve as executive producers alongside Sherry Marsh of Marsh Entertainment (Emmy-nominated Pose), and Ashley Stern and Pascal Breton.
further reading: The Top 25 Secret Agents...
Amazon Prime has ordered The Banker's Wife, an adaptation of the best-selling adventure novel, to series.
Thanks to the John Krasinski-starring Tom Clancy's Jack Ryan, Amazon Prime knows what kind of success a good old-fashioned action novel adaptation can bring. Now they want to try it out again.
Amazon has ordered an adaptation of best-selling thriller novel, The Banker's Wife, to series. Jennifer Salke, Head of Amazon Studios, made the announcement during the streamer's Summer 2019 TCA press tour appearance.
The Banker's Wife adaptation for Amazon Prime will feature eight episodes. Meredith Stiehm (Homeland) will write all eight episodes. Lesli Linka Glatter will direct all eight episodes. The project will be produced by Amazon Studios and Federation Entertainment. Steihm and Glatter will serve as executive producers alongside Sherry Marsh of Marsh Entertainment (Emmy-nominated Pose), and Ashley Stern and Pascal Breton.
further reading: The Top 25 Secret Agents...
- 7/27/2019
- Den of Geek
Indie veteran will continue to develop film projects through his Picture Perfect.
Indie sales veteran and former Lionsgate film co-chairman Patrick Wachsberger is getting into television, forming a Los Angeles-based joint venture with France’s Federation Entertainment to develop and produce premium TV series for the Us and international co-production.
Wachsberger will work on the joint venture, labeled Picture Perfect Federation and expected to focus mainly on English-language projects, with Ashley Stern, head of Us television for Paris-based Federation, best known as producer of French-language Netflix drama series Marseille.
Wachsberger is reportedly in the process of optioning a series of...
Indie sales veteran and former Lionsgate film co-chairman Patrick Wachsberger is getting into television, forming a Los Angeles-based joint venture with France’s Federation Entertainment to develop and produce premium TV series for the Us and international co-production.
Wachsberger will work on the joint venture, labeled Picture Perfect Federation and expected to focus mainly on English-language projects, with Ashley Stern, head of Us television for Paris-based Federation, best known as producer of French-language Netflix drama series Marseille.
Wachsberger is reportedly in the process of optioning a series of...
- 1/24/2019
- by John Hazelton
- ScreenDaily
Patrick Wachsberger, the former co-chairman of Lionsgate who recently created Picture Perfect Entertainment, is joining forces with France’s Federation Entertainment to launch a new TV production company called Picture Perfect Federation.
The banner will be dedicated to the development and production of premium TV series for the U.S., as well as international co-productions. Wachsberger and Ashley Stern, Federation’s head of U.S. television, will be based in Los Angeles representing the newly formed venture.
“Patrick Wachsberger has long been a game-changer in the market. And we at Federation have also intensely ‘disrupted’ the status quo by attracting and associating the best European talent to our independent studio,” said Pascal Breton, the founder of Federation Entertainment.
Federation is the producer of “Marseille,” “The Bureau” and “The Collection,” among other series.
Wachsberger said that “after starting the original Summit in 1993 and its ultimate sale to Lionsgate in 2012,” he had...
The banner will be dedicated to the development and production of premium TV series for the U.S., as well as international co-productions. Wachsberger and Ashley Stern, Federation’s head of U.S. television, will be based in Los Angeles representing the newly formed venture.
“Patrick Wachsberger has long been a game-changer in the market. And we at Federation have also intensely ‘disrupted’ the status quo by attracting and associating the best European talent to our independent studio,” said Pascal Breton, the founder of Federation Entertainment.
Federation is the producer of “Marseille,” “The Bureau” and “The Collection,” among other series.
Wachsberger said that “after starting the original Summit in 1993 and its ultimate sale to Lionsgate in 2012,” he had...
- 1/23/2019
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Patrick Wachsberger, former Co-Chairman of the Lionsgate Motion Picture Group and the man behind the international success of features such as Twilight, La La Land and John Wick, is moving into TV after teaming with Marseille producer Federation Entertainment.
Wachsberger’s Picture Perfect Entertainment has entered into a joint venture with Pascal Breton and Lionel Uzan’s studio Federation to create Picture Perfect Federation. The company will develop and produce premium TV series for U.S. broadcasters and streaming service and international co-productions.
“I’ve been really attracted by the quality of programming on television and decided that I wanted to get into it as well as movies. I really wanted to explore the possibilities of doing co-productions and looking at the world, not just the U.S. market,” Wachsberger told Deadline.
Picture Perfect Federation is on the brink of optioning a series of novels that will be one of its first development projects.
Wachsberger’s Picture Perfect Entertainment has entered into a joint venture with Pascal Breton and Lionel Uzan’s studio Federation to create Picture Perfect Federation. The company will develop and produce premium TV series for U.S. broadcasters and streaming service and international co-productions.
“I’ve been really attracted by the quality of programming on television and decided that I wanted to get into it as well as movies. I really wanted to explore the possibilities of doing co-productions and looking at the world, not just the U.S. market,” Wachsberger told Deadline.
Picture Perfect Federation is on the brink of optioning a series of novels that will be one of its first development projects.
- 1/23/2019
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Oscar nominee Rosamund Pike (Gone Girl) is set to star in and executive produce The Banker’s Wife, a high stakes international thriller drama series based on Cristina Alger’s book. The project, from Federation Entertainment (Marseille) and producer Sherry Marsh (Pose), also has brought on board top TV writer-creator Meredith Stiehm and top TV director Lesli Linka Glatter.
Stiehm will adapt the novel and executive produce, Glatter will direct and executive produce. The two reunite after working together on Showtime’s Homeland where Stiehm was an executive producer and Glatter is currently an executive producer.
Federation Entertainment, based in the U.S. and France, recently optioned The Banker’s Wife, which was released in early July by Putnam, and teamed with Pose and Vikings exec producer Marsh to develop a drama based on the novel.
Federation Entertainment’s boss Pascal Breton and U.S. chief Ashley Stern will...
Stiehm will adapt the novel and executive produce, Glatter will direct and executive produce. The two reunite after working together on Showtime’s Homeland where Stiehm was an executive producer and Glatter is currently an executive producer.
Federation Entertainment, based in the U.S. and France, recently optioned The Banker’s Wife, which was released in early July by Putnam, and teamed with Pose and Vikings exec producer Marsh to develop a drama based on the novel.
Federation Entertainment’s boss Pascal Breton and U.S. chief Ashley Stern will...
- 9/11/2018
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Streaming services have opened the door for multilingual series like worldwide Netflix hit “Narcos,” but dramas in English still dominate TV’s Golden Age, travel the most widely and draw the biggest distribution deals. International companies are scrambling for a piece of the action — including, perhaps surprisingly, producers in France, despite the country’s perceived snobbery about other languages.
Federation Entertainment, the 5-year-old firm behind Netflix’s first French show, “Marseille,” and Canal Plus spy show “The Bureau,” is the latest French player to step into the competitive U.S. market, with nearly a dozen English-language projects in the pipeline. Unlike outfits such as Gaumont or EuropaCorp, Federation is one of the few sizable, fully independent TV outfits left in France, and not only has opened an office in L.A. but is also developing projects with Paramount TV and other American companies.
Even so, breaking into the U.S.
Federation Entertainment, the 5-year-old firm behind Netflix’s first French show, “Marseille,” and Canal Plus spy show “The Bureau,” is the latest French player to step into the competitive U.S. market, with nearly a dozen English-language projects in the pipeline. Unlike outfits such as Gaumont or EuropaCorp, Federation is one of the few sizable, fully independent TV outfits left in France, and not only has opened an office in L.A. but is also developing projects with Paramount TV and other American companies.
Even so, breaking into the U.S.
- 7/19/2018
- by Elsa Keslassy
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Pose and Vikings exec producer Sherry Marsh has teamed up with Federation Entertainment, the producer of Netflix’s Gérard Depardieu-fronted original Marseille, to develop a drama based on Cristina Alger’s forthcoming novel The Banker’s Wife.
The company, which has bases in the U.S. and France, has optioned the thriller novel, which was released at the start of this month by Putnam.
The Banker’s Wife is a “high stakes” international thriller set in the world of global finance about two women racing for answers when a mysterious plane crash sets them off on parallel pursuits of truth.
It follows a couple who board a private plane bound for Geneva, flying into a storm. Soon after, it simply drops off the radar, and its wreckage is later uncovered in the Alps. Among the disappeared is Matthew Werner, a banking insider at Swiss United, a powerful offshore bank.
The company, which has bases in the U.S. and France, has optioned the thriller novel, which was released at the start of this month by Putnam.
The Banker’s Wife is a “high stakes” international thriller set in the world of global finance about two women racing for answers when a mysterious plane crash sets them off on parallel pursuits of truth.
It follows a couple who board a private plane bound for Geneva, flying into a storm. Soon after, it simply drops off the radar, and its wreckage is later uncovered in the Alps. Among the disappeared is Matthew Werner, a banking insider at Swiss United, a powerful offshore bank.
- 7/12/2018
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Heading into Mipcom, French television executive Pascal Breton has partnered with a group of film and television producers and showrunners to launch Federation Entertainment.
Based in Paris with development and marketing offices in Los Angeles, Federation Entertainment will be led by head of worldwide distribution Jean-Michel Ciszewski.
One of its debut commissions is Netflix’s previously-announced first French original series Marseille, a political drama due to hit screens at the end of 2015.
The creation of Federation Entertainment is a sign that traditional TV production practices are changing in France.
“Federation Entertainment is a new kind of company to meet the demands of a new era in entertainment,” said Breton.
“Federation Entertainment is an industry game-changer, offering producers and showrunners unique partnership opportunities and offering programmers worldwide an unprecedented wealth of major creative talent.”
Breton was the head of Marathon Entertainment, the French production company group behind series such as Dolmen and Saint-Tropez.
His new executive...
Based in Paris with development and marketing offices in Los Angeles, Federation Entertainment will be led by head of worldwide distribution Jean-Michel Ciszewski.
One of its debut commissions is Netflix’s previously-announced first French original series Marseille, a political drama due to hit screens at the end of 2015.
The creation of Federation Entertainment is a sign that traditional TV production practices are changing in France.
“Federation Entertainment is a new kind of company to meet the demands of a new era in entertainment,” said Breton.
“Federation Entertainment is an industry game-changer, offering producers and showrunners unique partnership opportunities and offering programmers worldwide an unprecedented wealth of major creative talent.”
Breton was the head of Marathon Entertainment, the French production company group behind series such as Dolmen and Saint-Tropez.
His new executive...
- 9/23/2014
- by jeremykay67@gmail.com (Jeremy Kay)
- ScreenDaily
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