Formats: Aquisition Strategies

Nina Richardson Acquisitions Manager Distraction Formats Canada

What are our acquisition strategies?

There are a few formats that we have our eyes on for distribution and I'm keen to be active in pursuing those particular acquisitions. At the same time, I'm also aware that an open door policy is key, as I want to make sure producers feel comfortable and at ease when approaching us to discuss development and distribution of their formats.

What formats are we looking for?

There is currently a bit of a trend for "hybrid" formats which together with the "positive programming" spin cater for both the brain and soul, so I'm on the look out for more of these. Similarly, the increasing awareness for a "greener environment" means that Distraction is keen to expand our successful "Environmental»-programming programming genre. Distraction is recognized as a leader in Scripted Format distribution and so we're always seeking good quality sitcoms and dramas. We are also always looking out for new entertaining clips to add to our already extensive, Funny Home Video collection.

What are the most successful titles we've acquired in 2006/ 2007?

"Guess Who?" (original title "Cultura Moderna") from Mediaset, Italy is the brainchild of renowned host and creator Mr. Antonio Ricci.  Mixing contestants and VIPs, "Guess Who?" is the hybrid game show incorporating an entertaining mix of talent show and guess who. Having aired last Summer on Canale 5, it reached a market share of over 31% despite being scheduled against The World Cup and has already been picked up by Telecinco in Spain. "Guess Who?" also featured in The Wit presentation of "hot new international formats" at MIPCOM 2006. "The Big Experiment" from Rogue Productions (TVNZ) only launched at MIPCOM 2006 and has been signed in Italy, Belgium and most recently in France for TF1. This high-concept reality series explores hot-button issues including race, sexuality, beauty and disability through a radical hands-on approach. With a powerful impact on its viewers which is reflected in its market share ratings of over 24%, "The Big Experiment" is designed to test people's limits. It is a social experiment that radically changes people's identities, and gives them the opportunity to walk a day in someone else's shoes.

What formats you expect will be in demand at MIPTV?

We are predicting there will be the usual hunt for the perfect Saturday night primetime format along with "Green" programming such as Distractions "EcoHouse: The Challenge" format. There also continues to be a demand for classic game shows that can stand the test of time. It is a genre that just doesn't want to go away and simply continues to rise above fads and trends. Scripted formats are coming of age now and in the wake of various recent international telenovelas and sitcoms hits we anticipate increased demand for these.