In preparation for MIPCOM, we’re running a series of brief interviews with leading executives. We chatted with Lionsgate’s president, International Television and Digital Distribution, Peter Iacono about the Santa Monica-based company’s plans for the upcoming market.
VideoAge: Do you expect this MIPCOM to be different from last year’s in terms of a) results, b) number of buyers you’ll meet with and c) activities around the market (parties/events/etc)?
Peter Iacono: Lionsgate has an exceptionally strong and varied portfolio of new programming and ratings-winning returning series to offer our many clients across a broad spectrum of platforms. We’re looking forward to seeing all our clients in Cannes.
VA: Are you bringing new shows? What are they?
PI: Graves, a single camera tells the story of President Richard Graves (Nick Nolte), a former two-term President of the United States as he embarks on a Don Quixote-like quest to right the wrongs of his administration and reclaim his legacy 25 years after leaving the White House. Kicking and Screaming is a new competition series that teams 10 expert survivalists with pampered partners to face the toughest challenges of their lives. Nightcap is an edgy comedy that takes the viewer behind-the-scenes and into the fast paced and high stakes world of a fictitious late night talk show. Of course we are very proud of our returning series such as The Royals, which was the first scripted commission for E!, and Golden Globe nominated, endearing comedy Casual. We also have blockbuster series, such as Orange is the New Black, which has been hugely successful with international broadcasters and is now available for additional sales.
VA: Which territories are emerging for you?
PI: At Lionsgate we are constantly expanding our reach around the world. Our premium scripted and reality content is able to engage audiences via the growing number of newly emerging platforms, as well as through traditional broadcasters, in all parts of the world. With such a broad portfolio of high-quality programming we have a compelling and diverse offering to benefit all types of distribution outlets wherever they may be.
VA: Which window is increasing in sales? (FTA, SVOD, etc)
PI: There is a continued trend for channel defining programming across all windows. Having a constant flow of strong and varied content means we can access numerous opportunities. Our sales teams at Lionsgate have a strong grasp of the constantly shifting television landscape – working closely with new and emerging platforms. We are able to respond quickly and smoothly to meet the needs of our broadcast partners and to create innovative business models that work across multiple platforms and territories.
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