Fremantle and IBI Investment House have collaborated to launch a €150M ($162.7M) Scripted Fund, aiming to support high-end TV and film projects. This fund will be spearheaded by Guy Hameiri, CEO of Abot Hameiri, a company owned by Fremantle. The Israeli investor, IBI, will work closely with Fremantle to facilitate the production of each project and ensure the best route to market. Notably, the fund’s first projects include a biopic about Maria Callas, starring the talented Angelina Jolie and directed by Pablo Larraín, alongside other exciting TV development projects.
For IBI, this collaboration signifies its entry into the international entertainment market, providing its investors with a unique opportunity to participate in funding international productions with renowned talents for the first time. This strategic move demonstrates IBI’s ambition to tap into the growing global entertainment industry and diversify its portfolio. With Fremantle’s expertise and IBI’s financial support, the Scripted Fund becomes a highly competitive player in the market.
The collaboration not only aims to accelerate the production of projects but also empowers world-class creatives and talent, granting them control in an ever-changing industry. The partnership between Fremantle and IBI ensures that creative professionals have the resources and support necessary to bring their visions to life while maintaining artistic integrity and control over their projects. This commitment to creative empowerment sets the Scripted Fund apart and positions it as an attractive option for both established and emerging talents.
One of the most highly anticipated projects to emerge from the Scripted Fund is the Maria Callas biopic, directed by Pablo Larraín and written by Steven Knight. The esteemed Angelina Jolie will portray the legendary opera singer in this compelling film. Produced by Lorenzo Mieli’s The Apartment Pictures, in collaboration with Fremantle’s Fabula Pictures and Komplizen Film, this biopic promises to captivate audiences with its exploration of Callas’ life and legacy.
In addition to the Maria Callas biopic, the Scripted Fund has unveiled two new exciting TV development projects. Sarah Dollard, known for her work on Bridgerton, is penning the mystery thriller Generation Loss. Based on Elizabeth Hand’s novel, this thrilling series is set to intrigue and immerse viewers in a world of mystery and suspense. Furthermore, Jim Keeble and Dudi Appleton, in collaboration with Guy Hameiri, are creating Shelter, a gripping six-part revenge drama. Directed by Jeremy Webb, acclaimed for his work on The Last of Us, Shelter promises to deliver intense and emotional storytelling.
Fremantle has been strategically expanding its presence in the entertainment industry through acquisitions and partnerships. Over the past few years, the company has acquired various production companies, including Element Pictures and Lux Vide, to strengthen its capabilities and broaden its content offerings. Additionally, Fremantle has secured deals with high-profile talents like Angelina Jolie and Edward Berger, solidifying its position as a major player in the industry.
Fremantle’s ambitious investment strategy aligns with its revenue target of €3B by 2025. The company’s substantial investment of approximately €250M over two years demonstrates its commitment to growth and success in the global market. Through strategic collaborations and financial support from partners like IBI, Fremantle aims to achieve its revenue goals while delivering exceptional content for audiences worldwide.
The partnership between Fremantle and IBI was developed with the support and collaboration of key executives from both companies. Seb Shorr, Bob McCourt, Gabriella Carriere, and Dan Gadher from Fremantle worked alongside Dave Lubetzky, Oren Cohen, Oren Ofek, and Lee Fischer from IBI to establish the Scripted Fund. Legal aspects of the deal were handled by Kirsten Edwards, Fran Denny, and their respective legal teams, together with external legal advisors from Wiggin, S. Horowitz & Co., and Sheridans.
The collaboration between Fremantle and IBI Investment House’s Scripted Fund marks an exciting milestone in the entertainment industry. With a focus on empowering creatives and accelerating project production, this partnership ensures that innovative and captivating content reaches audiences worldwide. The emergence of projects such as the Maria Callas biopic and the new TV development projects demonstrate the Scripted Fund’s commitment to quality storytelling and its potential to reshape the global entertainment landscape.