23 September, 2010
Fireworks International, the television and digital distribution arm of ContentFilm plc, and Michael Eisner’s leading US-based independent studio Vuguru are partnering in a significant output deal which will see the distributor acquiring a minimum of ten multi-platform projects from the company over two years.
As part of the new two-year agreement, Fireworks International will be granted a first-look opportunity to acquire international multi-platform distribution rights, excluding US and Canada, for all Vuguru’s new productions. The first project signed in the deal is the young-adult drama Pretty Tough, which is delivered as 18 x 5-7 minute episodes and as a 90-minute feature, launching at MIPCOM 2010.
Based on the popular novel by Liz Tigelaar (Dawson’s Creek, Brothers & Sisters, Life Unexpected) and set in the picturesque world of Malibu, California, Pretty Tough centers on two teenage sisters at opposite ends of the popularity spectrum, whose tumultuous relationship faces the ultimate test when they are forced to compete together on the soccer field at their privileged high school.
Jonathan Ford, Executive Vice-President, Digital Acquisitions and Distribution at Fireworks International said, “Partnering with Vuguru, a company which pioneers the development of content for delivery across global broadcast, internet, mobile and portable device platforms, will give us fantastic access to the latest and most sought after properties in the digital arena. This is a landmark collaboration for Fireworks International and a fantastic example of our ongoing strategy to be the premier destination for multi-platform properties in the international market.”
“Fireworks International is a global market leader in distributing innovative content suitable for multi-platform delivery”, added Larry Tanz, President of Vuguru. “Fireworks’ financial commitment demonstrates the appetite that exists among distributors for premium content. We are very pleased to cement our strong relationship with this exciting new deal and look forward to seeing Vuguru properties available to audiences on all platforms throughout the world.”
The deal follows Fireworks International and Vuguru’s recent collaboration on international distribution of the highly-anticipated multi-platform psychological thriller The Booth at the End. The 62-part series, created by writer Christopher Kubasik and helmed by veteran television director Jessica Landaw, stars Xander Berkeley (Nikita, 24, CSI, Kick-Ass, Terminator 2: Judgment Day) as a mysterious character who sits in the back of a diner, granting wishes to visitors as long as they, in turn, perform tasks for him.
About Fireworks International
Fireworks International is ContentFilm’s international television and digital distribution division with over 3,000 hours of high-quality and commercially appealing programming including an extensive slate of major drama series, non-fiction entertainment, kids live action comedy and drama series, TV movies, mini-series and special event programming. Recent additions include detective drama series, REPUBLIC OF DOYLE, primetime drama series, THE BORDER and heart-warming family drama series, HEARTLAND; non-fiction primetime documentary specials HUNTING THE LOST SYMBOL and I KNOW WHAT I SAW; U.S. tween comedy THE ASSISTANTS; high definition multi-platform thriller series VALEMONT; children’s programmes HALF MOON INVESTIGATIONS and FAMILY BIZ as well as the classic anime series, ROBOTECH; plus over 200 U.S. network mini-series and TV movies; and specials including the Annual U.S. PRIMETIME EMMY AWARDS show. This new product is combined with the large and valuable Fireworks library catalogue which is complemented by a raft of formidable television shows including Gene Roddenberry’s ANDROMEDA, MUTANT X and RELIC HUNTER.
About Vuguru LLC
Vuguru LLC is an independent studio that develops and finances scripted, story-driven content for digital and international platforms. Founded by Michael Eisner’s Tornante Company and recently backed by Canada’s Rogers Media, the studio brings premium content opportunities to advertisers and distribution partners, enabling them to connect with target audiences. Vuguru’s inaugural series Prom Queen pioneered the online serial space with its unique format and distribution. Follow-up series have included Prom Queen: Summer Heat, Sam Has 7 Friends, The All-For-Nots, Foreign Body and two seasons of the Emmy-nominated Back on Topps. Vuguru programming has been distributed in over 40 countries around the world.
For further information contact:Debbie LawrenceThe Lippin Company
Tel: + 44 (0) 20 3008 5406
Adam SchiffDan Klores Communications
Tel: +1 (212) 981 5216
Eva RossDan Klores Communications
Tel: +1 (212) 981 5218
Courtney GreenbergDan Klores Communications
Tel: +1 (212) 981 5108
