CANNES: National Geographic Channels International (NGCI), along with independent production and distribution company, Off the Fence (OTF) and the Media Development Authority of Singapore (MDA) have announced a partnership initiative. They will commission 15 one-hour original documentary programmes in high-definition (HD) to encourage Singaporean filmmaking talents.
The multi-million dollar partnership will enable the production of 15 titles over the next three years. National Geographic Channels International and Off the Fence will share their experience and skills with a range of Singapore producers to develop high-quality, globally-appealing documentaries designed to meet the growing requirement for HD programming worldwide.
These programmes will premiere on NGCI to 190 million homes in 165 countries. Off the Fence will retain all rights in Germany, France and the US outright and will distribute the programming worldwide. The first three projects in the first year have been awarded to Singapore production companies Beach House Production Pictures, The Moving Visual Co. and Right Angle Media.
NGCI executive VP content Sydney Suissa says, "National Geographic Channels International is pleased to partner with leading production companies like Off the Fence and the MDA. By providing resources and creating more opportunities for international exposure, we hope it will empower local filmmakers to create high-quality work for an international audience".
Off the Fence MD Ellen Windemuth says, "This is a significant step forward in our ongoing global production strategy, fulfilling our key aim of blending our experience in producing programming for an international audience with the unique skills and talents available in the local regions.
" With National Geographic Channels International and MDA onboard, who are both equally passionate in supporting local talent, we are confident in producing a range of titles that will offer huge appeal to buyers and audiences worldwide."
MDA CEO Dr Christopher Chia says, "Singapore companies have proven that they have what it takes to be a key contributor to the factual programming content market. This initiative will provide international audiences with more quality Made-by-Singapore HD content."
