The era of big-budget television shows with endless series orders and massive budgets may be a thing of the past, but the demand for high-quality scripted dramas remains strong in the ever-expanding global streaming market. As the industry gears up for MIPCOM Cannes, the leading global television market, the supply side of scripted content is looking robust, offering a diverse range of shows from period pieces to gritty urban dramas.
Despite budget constraints leading to fewer extravagant deals at this year’s MIPCOM, procedural dramas, thrillers, and star-driven projects are expected to have an edge over riskier niche-focused content. Producers who can navigate the financial aspects of production will still find opportunities to strike deals and create compelling content.
The Hollywood Reporter has compiled a list of the top 15 scripted shows to watch out for at MIPCOM Cannes, showcasing a variety of genres and themes. These shows cater to different audiences and platforms, from public broadcasters to streaming services, offering something for everyone.
One standout show is “World Divided,” a historical drama that weaves together rare colorized archival footage with the lives of six key figures from WWII to the 1960s, shedding light on the divisions that shaped the post-war world. This series is a must-watch for viewers interested in historical events and political narratives.
Another intriguing show is “Suits: L.A.,” a spin-off of the popular legal drama that follows a former prosecutor’s transformation into a powerful Los Angeles lawyer. With a star-studded cast and a focus on criminal and entertainment law, this series is sure to attract broadcast buyers looking for engaging content.
For fans of high-concept comedy, “The Sanctuary” offers a unique storyline about an eccentric tech billionaire who goes into hiding in New Zealand, blending humor with intrigue. This series has the potential to appeal to streamers and niche networks looking for fresh and inventive content.
In addition to these highlights, there are shows like “Icebreaker,” a Finnish supernatural thriller, “Outrageous,” a BBC drama based on historical events, and “Saint-Pierre,” a police procedural set on French islands, each offering a unique perspective and narrative style for viewers to enjoy.
As the scripted content market continues to evolve, MIPCOM Cannes presents an exciting opportunity for producers, buyers, and audiences to explore new and captivating stories from around the world. With a diverse array of shows on offer, there is something for everyone to enjoy, from historical epics to contemporary thrillers, ensuring that the demand for top-notch drama is met with creativity and innovation.