|
MUMBAI:
UK independent producer Hardy and Sons, is to re-launch as
a new production outfit in partnership with Left Bank Pictures
and BBC Worldwide.
The
three parties have agreed terms in which BBC Worldwide and
Left Bank will each hold a 15 per cent stake in the new venture,
with the majority 70 per cent stake held by Hardy and Sons
owner and its creative director, Justin Hardy.
The
new venture is yet to be named but will focus on drama and
documentary production, drawing on Left Bank's leadership
in contemporary drama and film, and Hardy and Sons award-winning
forte for historical drama and documentary.
BBC
Worldwide will be the distributor for the joint venture, using
its global sales network and co production relationships to
secure commercial revenues.
Hardy
and Sons creative director Justin Hardy said, "A partnership
with Andy makes a lot of sense. We both have experience in
factual drama.
"In
the case of The Deal, The Queen and Longford,
they are the finest factual dramas in the world. We are privileged
to sit in such company. As for Wayne at BBC Worldwide, television
distribution has found the kind of entrepreneur it needs."
Left
Bank Pictures MD, Andy Harries says, "We want to be in
business with Justin because he has an fantastic track record
for bringing history into focus for a prime time modern audience.
"He
is a kind of magician and makes, bold, imaginative and original
drama series on budgets that would leave most drama companies
terrified!
"His
sensibility, ambition ,energy and experience will make a great
fit with Left Bank and we will work closely together as we
plan for the future. Left bank is growing its domestic and
international business through key investments and creative
alliances with 'must have' talent like him. There is much
more to follow."
BBC
Worldwide director of independents, Helen Jackson says, "In
just two years, Hardy and Sons has become a UK leader in historical
productions and we are very excited to be part of this new
partnership.
"Combining
the formidable talents of Justin Hardy and Andy Harries will
create a force to be reckoned with in British television that
we look forward to showcasing around the world."
Hardy
and Sons was established in 2005 by producer Justin Hardy.
Its focus lies in bringing history to life through drama and
documentaries.
BBC
Worldwide's Indie Unit was launched in 2000, and is charged
with the specific task of building partnerships with the UK's
Independent production sector. The unit currently has day-to-day
relationships with more than 40 of the UK's top Independent
production companies.
Left
Bank Pictures was launched in July 2007 by Andy Harries with
Jenny Borgas as head Of film, Francis Hopkinson as head of
television and Marigo Kehoe as head of production.
|
