Banijay U.K. Partners with Ellie Wood for Development Deal
Banijay U.K. has formalized a new development agreement with Ellie Wood, a notable producer known for her work on The Dig for Netflix and Stonehouse for ITV, alongside her company, Clearwood Films. This strategic move is aimed at enhancing the production landscape within the UK entertainment industry.
This latest deal succeeds a first-look arrangement established in 2019 between Banijay Rights, the distribution arm of Banijay Entertainment, and Clearwood Films. Under this partnership, Banijay Rights will continue to handle the distribution of projects produced by Clearwood.
Exciting New Projects Ahead
The initial project under this new agreement involves securing the rights to Barbara Pym’s Excellent Women, a title celebrated as one of Pym’s most impactful works. There is also a provision to explore adaptations of additional novels by the author.
Clearwood Films will receive financial support to develop concepts and treatments, along with access to essential resources from Banijay U.K., covering finance, legal matters, and business affairs. Following approval of the ideas, Clearwood may collaborate with other Banijay U.K. companies for co-production opportunities.
Insights from the Leaders
Patrick Holland, CEO of Banijay U.K., praised Wood, stating, “Ellie is a brilliant producer with an established reputation for creating standout, high-quality drama. Banijay Rights have had a successful first look deal in place with Clearwood. We are delighted to support her vision moving forward.”
Wood expressed enthusiasm about this collaboration, mentioning, “I’m thrilled to be working with Patrick and continuing Clearwood Films’ partnership with the wider Banijay family. I am particularly excited to be developing the novels of one of my favourite authors, the inimitable Barbara Pym. Just as Jilly Cooper’s Rivals gave us a ‘Cooperverse’, I look forward to creating a ‘Pymverse’ that showcases this author’s uniquely British tales of comic observation and unrequited love to a broader television audience.”
Looking to the Future
Upcoming projects from Clearwood Films include a still-unnamed single scripted project intended for a linear broadcaster. Furthermore, Wood is serving as the executive producer for the adaptation of Deborah Levy’s novel Hot Milk, featuring talents such as Emma Mackey, Fiona Shaw, and Vicky Krieps, which has made its debut at the Berlinale.
In addition to these projects, a political drama titled 49 Days, penned by acclaimed writer John Preston and inspired by the brief premiership of Liz Truss, is also in the developmental stage with Banijay backing.