"Chiko’s Challenge"
The distribution companies Lineup Industries and NHK Enterprises (the distribution arm of Japanese broadcaster NHK) are partnering to drive the global exploitation of NHK’s slate of prize-winning formats. Lineup Industries will use its specialist insights and deep knowledge of the global market to advise on and bring the Japanese public broadcaster’s formats to Western territories with a focus on Europe, North America, Australia, and New Zealand. The first formats to headline the new partnership are "The Late Night Show with Nitty & Gritty"; "72 Hours" and "Chiko’s Challenge".
NHK/NHK Enterprises and Lineup Industries originally began collaborating with the hugely successful Japanese adaptation of "Radio Gaga", a uniquely touching format which follows a hyper-local, intimate radio station, now in its third season on NHK.
Ed Louwerse and Julian Curtis, co-founders of Lineup Industries, said: “Although many Japanese formats can seem puzzling to audiences outside of Asia, they are often only a few small tweaks away from captivating Western viewers. NHK has an extensive library of standout, innovative formats that we believe can be successfully adapted for local markets, while still respecting and retaining the core creative elements that made the original so special. We look forward to working with the talented team at NHK and NHK Enterprises to maximise the international potential of their formats, building on our successful partnership on 'Radio Gaga'.”
Junko Ogawa, Executive Controller-General, Content Distribution Department of NHK Enterprises adds: “We are absolutely excited to be able to team up with Lineup Industries. The adaptation of 'Radio Gaga' has not only been a great hit for NHK but has helped us offer warmth, compassion, and laughter to NHK’s audience, which is an important element for its factual entertainment. We believe Lineup Industries and NHK share similar sensibilities and, we hope the partnership will let us connect with more companies that may take interest in our wonderful content.”
THE THREE FIRST BETS
Going into its fifth season on NHK and causing significant social media buzz with each episode, "The Late Night Show with Nitty & Gritty" celebrates the underground and little-known-but-rumored ways of life through a candid talk show…using puppets.
"72 Hours" is a compelling, authentic documentary format that captures the real stories of ordinary people who come and go at a specific location during a 72-hour period. Since its first broadcast on NHK’s main channel in 2006, the series now runs weekly with almost 300 episodes filmed. Tencent has successfully posted a Chinese version gaining nearly 300 million views.
"Chiko’s Challenge" is a co-viewing comedy show which challenges celebrities with child-like questions which are often surprisingly difficult to answer.