Independent distributor All3Media International has finalised deals in the Americas, Europe and Australasia for “The Drowning,” a ratings-winning thriller from Noel Clarke and Jason Maza’s All3Media-backed Unstoppable Film & Television, produced in association with All3Media International for the UK’s Channel 5.
Starring Jill Halfpenny, Jonas Armstrong and Rupert Penry-Jones, four-part identity thriller “The Drowning” premiered to 2.8 million viewers on Channel 5 earlier this year, exceeding the channel’s slot average by 144%. All3Media International has now signed a new deal with AMC Networks’ Sundance Now and Acorn TV which will see the drama broadcasting simultaneously on both platforms across the United States and South America, beginning on Thursday, May 6. Acorn TV will offer the series in the United States, Canada and Latin America, while Sundance Now is available in the United States and Canada.
“The Drowning” features in a new All3Media International drama package acquisition by C More Entertainment. Rights to the thriller have been secured by C More for Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden, in a deal that also includes “The Deceived,” “Blood,” “Mrs Wilson,” “Strangers,” and “The Sounds”. Further signings include a digital rights acquisition by Sky Network Television for New Zealand and a TV/SVOD acquisition by Hellenic Telecommunications for Greece. Dazzler Media has also secured DVD rights for UK and Eire.
“‘The Drowning’ is attracting keen interest on the global stage with its combination of renowned talent on- and off-screen and gripping storyline. We’re delighted to see this buzz result in an initial round of deals in key territories, including a simultaneous Sundance Now/Acorn broadcast that will ensure the drama reaches the maximum number of viewers across their broad audience space. Channel 5 achieved impressive ratings when ‘The Drowning’ made its debut earlier this year and we’re looking forward to similar success as this intriguing thriller rolls out worldwide,” said Sally Habbershaw, EVP, Americas at All3Media International.
Matthew Graham, General Manager for Acorn TV and Sundance Now, added: “We’re excited to partner with frequent collaborator All3media International to bring both Acorn TV and Sundance Now subscribers another popular British drama. With a riveting script and top-notch ensemble, our subscribers across the US, Canada and Latin America are sure to be sucked into this addictive new thriller”.
In “The Drowning,” when Jodie catches sight of Daniel, a teenage boy, she is convinced she has found her missing son. Whether she is right or not, in that moment her spark of hope is ignited and she commits to a dangerous and transgressive path that will take her to the edge of reason. How far will she go? How far would any of us go to find a missing child?