The independent film and television group Beta partners with British company Number 9 Films. Along with industry expert Kate Laffey, the collaboration aims to focus on high-end scripted television drama. With the joint venture, the profound international expertise of Number 9's creative team meets Beta's extensive experience in developing, financing and distributing film and television internationally.
Co-founded in 2002 by award-winning producers Elizabeth Karlsen and Stephen Woolley, Number 9 Films is responsible for some of the most celebrated independent films in the US and Europe, including Oscar nominated "Living" scripted by Kazuo Ishiguro starring Bill Nighy and Aimee Lou Wood, Oscar nominated "Carol" by Todd Haynes and Paolo Sorrentino’s multi-awarded "Youth" starring Michael Caine and Harvey Keitel. Intensifying production activities in the UK, Beta takes a stake in the London-based subsidiary, which expands Number 9 Films core business into series. Kate Laffey, formerly Head of Content UK & Europe at Paramount TV International Studios and Vice President of Acquisitions at Cineflix Rights, will serve as Head of TV.
Elizabeth Karlsen and Stephen Woolley, co-CEOs Number 9 Films described the scope of the agreement: “This opportunity that Beta have gifted us is perfect timing for Number 9 to fulfil our long felt passionate ambition to expand our creative ideas into producing longform stories. We are excited to welcome Kate into the team and look forward to combining our motion picture experience with her hands on understanding of the television production and coproduction universe. With the vast knowledge and support of Beta we are confident this will become a successful combination of talents and knowhow to make a lasting contribution to a constantly changing and vibrant industry," explained.
On her part, Kate Laffey, Head of TV Number 9 TV praised their partners: “I’m delighted to join such a prestigious company as Number 9 Films at such a critical time in our industry’s evolution. I am excited to accelerate their nascent TV slate and to work with Beta to deliver a pipeline of strong scripted originals that will appeal to the international market," stated.
Finally, Koby Gal Raday, Beta’s Chief Content Officer spoke of a great alignment of visions: “Elizabeth Karlsen and Stephen Woolley are exceptional producers with a distinctive taste and a clear artistic vision. Their award-wining productions discovered and championed some of the most exciting UK and international talents and keep winning audiences’ and critics’ hearts. We are so proud to partner with Number 9 as they venture into scripted series. Their DNA compliments our vision of being the ultimate European haven for A-list creatives. We heartly welcome Kate Laffey and look forward to working with this fabulous team," highlighted.