ZDF Studios and BlackBox Multimedia have announced the development of a light romantic drama, “The Little Italian Hotel” (6x60’), based on the book by best-selling author Phaedra Patrick and adapted for TV by writer Kay Stonham (“Millie Inbetween,” “Life of Riley,” “My Family”). The development deal was brokered by ZDF Studios’ Director Drama Yi Qiao and Blackbox Multimedia’s Managing Director Chiara Cardoso. The filming rights were negotiated by Sheila David at Catapult Rights Limited acting in conjunction with Phaedra Patrick’s literary agent Clare Wallace at Darley Anderson & Associates Limited.
A feel-good romantic comedy, “The Little Italian Hotel” is set in the idyllic Italian region of Umbria. Ginny Splinters is 50 and at the top of her game. Her advice show “Ginny Listens” is vying for the No.1 slot on the UK’s premier radio station and she has a self-help book about to be published. Her private life is equally glittering and to prove it, she’s booked a luxurious anniversary celebration in Italy with her husband, Adrian. But, during a live phone-in, a caller throws doubt on Adrian’s faithfulness and her perfect life comes crashing down. Accompanied not by her husband but by five equally heart-broken listeners, whose problems she has rashly vowed to solve, Ginny goes on a journey of self-discovery and learns that not all heartaches can be easily healed.
“The Little Italian Hotel” was published in the UK and U.S. last year to rave reviews and has since sold in Bulgaria, Czech Republic and Lithuania. Phaedra Patrick’s books have been translated into 25 languages worldwide with four of her titles becoming USA TODAY’s bestsellers. Her second novel, “Rise and Shine Benedict Stone,” was made into a movie in 2021.
Yi Qiao, Director Drama, ZDF Studios said: “We are delighted to partner with BlackBox Multimedia to bring this story to life for the small screen. Romance, comedy, endearing characters and a beautiful setting, interspersed with insightful life lessons, combine to make this an ideal primetime series for family audiences.”
Chiara Cardoso, Managing Director, BlackBox Multimedia added: “When we came across ‘The Little Italian Hotel,’ we knew instantly that this would make a great TV series. There are so many layers to this uplifting, warm-hearted romantic comedy with its realistic undertone and satirical twist. It brings a refreshing comic framing to the personal growth/holiday-romance drama by challenging the notion that maintaining a high-flying career and a glossy image are the keys to happiness. Add to that, its travel brochure nostalgic appeal and you have a captivating story that transports you to a sunnier world.”
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