‘Unique and Bold Choices’ Reigned Supreme at Berlinale’s Co-Pro Series: ‘This Should Attract Buyers and Co-producers Now’
21.02.2024 - 13:15
/ variety.com
Marta Balaga From Namibian western to animated revenge thriller, from Bosnian family saga to a lesbian vampire breakup story, 10 upscale scripted TV projects were spotlighted at the Berlinale Series Market’s Co-Pro Series on Tuesday morning, representing “unique and bold choices with regard to genre and perspective, on top of great storytelling,” Martina Bleis, Head of the Berlinale Co-Production Market, observed before the presentation.. “This should attract buyers and co-producers now, and will surely convince discerning audiences once they have been made,” With Oscar winner Simon Beaufoy joining climate change satire “S.O.L.,” created by late Ruth McCance, or Cannes-awarded director Aida Begić now focusing on “Mirrors,” it was a high-profile affair.
“This female family chronicle serves as a bridge between two centuries, two eras and two societies, shedding light on the hidden lives of Balkan women. Female secrets touch on taboos such as sexuality, violence and mental health.
What would happen if all these secrets were not secrets at all?,” Begić told Variety. “Series selections at the Berlinale have always been about highlighting exciting, cinematic series.
Those that you would also enjoy watching on the big screen, with company around you. Very often, these are series by filmmakers and producers who have made highly acclaimed films selected in ours, or in other major festivals before,” pointed out Bleis.
New shows by Katrin Gebbe – “Sissi” and “Pelican Blood” – Elina Psykou, behind “The Eternal Return of Antonis Paraskevas” and “Piggy” director Carlota Pereda, now taking on heartbroken bloodsuckers in “Death to Love,” are intriguing as well. “Vampires are my favorite monsters for their wild instincts, forbidden
.