Blue Ant Studios is heading to MIPCOM this year with a wide-ranging slate of new unscripted programming from genres such as crime, history, nature, wildlife and environment, factual entertainment, and formats. The line-up features more than 20 new series, documentaries, and numerous popular returning series produced both in-house and by some of the world’s leading independent producers.
Mark Bishop, Co-President, Blue Ant Studios briefly described the slate."Our latest unscripted slate is a culmination of our efforts to bring the best content to global buyers from both our talented in-house development teams and our brilliant third-party production partners. 'Northwoods Survival,' a Blue Ant Studios' original series, and Jupiter Entertainment’s 'The Killer You Know' are just two of the new series we're thrilled to launch this MIPCOM, alongside other high-profile launches and returning series across crime, history, mystery, wildlife, lifestyle, and docs," commented. Let's now review the titles in question.
In the realm of true crime, Blue Ant Studios presents several gripping new series."The Killer You Know" (20 x 60, Jupiter Entertainment) marks the studio’s first collaboration with Jupiter Entertainment, one of the U.S.'s leading producers of true crime programming. Each episode tells the chilling story of a murder committed by someone close to the victim—whether a family member, co-worker, or ex-lover. Through dramatic reenactments and interviews with law enforcement, victims' loved ones, and criminologists, the series delves into some of the most shocking murders and the ultimate betrayals. "The Eunuch Maker" (2 x 60 & 1 x 60 presenterless version, Future Studios and Krempelwood) follows journalist Marcel Theroux as he investigates the disturbing world of a voluntary castration cult. "The Jury: Death on the Staircase" (5 x 60, Northern Pictures) is the first adaptation of the successful format "The Jury." This Australian series explores a real criminal case through the eyes of 12 ordinary citizens tasked with determining the defendant’s guilt or innocence. The format, launched by Blue Ant Studios at London Screenings 2024, has been licensed in multiple territories and offers a unique look at the Australian legal system.
In terms of factual entertainment, Blue Ant Studios offers an exciting array of new series. "Northwoods Survival" (8 x 60, Blue Ant Studios) follows a diverse group of individuals as they embark on a four-season mission to build a life in Canada’s rugged northern wilderness. The series captures their struggles as they attempt to live entirely off the land in one of the most unforgiving landscapes on earth.
For history enthusiasts, Blue Ant Studios brings a variety of fascinating historical narratives. "Emperor: The Rise and Fall of a Dynasty" (3 x 60, October Films & GroupM Motion) explores the dramatic stories of five Roman emperors—Augustus, Tiberius, Caligula, Claudius, and Nero—each of whom fought for supremacy through power, sex, and violence. The series is told from the perspective of Livia, the matriarch of the imperial family. "Hitler’s British Island" (2 x 60, Blink) reveals previously untold stories of Nazi atrocities during the occupation of Alderney, a British island in the English Channel, during World War II. "Bettany Hughes’ Lost Worlds: The Nabataeans" (3 x 60, Sandstone Global) takes viewers on an epic journey as historian Bettany Hughes traces the trade routes of the Nabataeans, revealing the importance of this ancient kingdom and its capital, Petra. "Atlantis: The Lost City Unearthed" (3 x 60 or 1 x 60, Canales Media) follows a team of researchers who may have discovered the legendary city of Atlantis. The series uncovers secrets from this lost civilization, which once thrived on a majestic island in the Atlantic Ocean. "Battle of the Atlantic" (3 x 60, October Films & GroupM Motion) takes a close look at the brutal and bloody conflict that claimed over 100,000 lives in World War II. Engineer Rob Bell and ex-marine Arthur Williams explore the U-Boats and warships that shaped this pivotal battle.
Following in the lifestyle genre, Blue Ant Studios introduces two new shows. "Tom Kerridge: Secrets of the Pub Kitchen" (10 x 30, Bone Soup Productions) takes viewers behind the scenes with British chef Tom Kerridge as he strives for a Michelin star by elevating pub classics. The series is packed with tips and recipes for viewers to try at home. "Kitchen Glow Up" (8 x 30, Intuitive Content) features professional chef Ellen Bennett as she transforms homeowners’ kitchens, reimagining their cooking spaces with practical and creative solutions that don’t break the bank.
In the world of nature and wildlife, Blue Ant Studios brings awe-inspiring stories from across the globe."Survival of the Beast" (6 x 60, Beach House Pictures) follows adventurer Max Djenohan as he travels the world learning survival skills from some of the planet's most charismatic animals. "Pride Rules" (5 x 60, Lion Mountain Media) offers a close look at the politics, survival strategies, and territorial struggles within lion prides."Shared Planet" (4 x 60, River Road Films) combines stunning cinematography and incredible animal action to reveal the intricate relationships between people and wildlife. "Wings Over Water" (1 x 60, Dorsey Pictures), narrated by Michael Keaton, highlights the captivating behaviors of three bird species—Sandhill Cranes, Yellow Warblers, and Mallard Ducks—whose survival depends on North America’s wetlands. "Boss Shark" (1 x 60, WildBear Entertainment) captures never-before-seen behavior of great white sharks as they compete for dominance and mating rights. "Planet Weird" (6 x 60, WildBear Entertainment) takes viewers on a journey to discover some of the world’s most unusual creatures and survival strategies. "Wild Sky" (4 x 60, WildBear Entertainment) documents extreme weather events across four continents, revealing how animals adapt to tornadoes, droughts, and blizzards. "Cub Camp" (6 x 60, Merit Motion Pictures) visits Black Bear Rescue Manitoba, where orphaned cubs are rehabilitated and prepared to return to the wild. "The Secret Life of the Hermit Crab" (1 x 60, Featuristic Films) follows the epic migration of hermit crabs in Guadeloupe. "Hope for Wildlife: The Next Generation" (8 x 60, Arcadia Entertainment) explores the next generation of animal carers working at wildlife rehabilitation centers. "399: Queen of the Tetons" (1 x 90 or 1 x 60, Lucky 8) follows the life of a famous grizzly bear, featuring commentary from nature photographer Thomas Mangelsen and activist Dr. Jane Goodall.
In terms of documentaries, Blue Ant Studios presents powerful films exploring diverse issues. "The 'A' Word: America’s War on Women" (1 x 60, The Independent) examines the ongoing battle over abortion rights in the U.S., two years after the Supreme Court’s pivotal decision. The film highlights the stories of those most affected by the ban, including vulnerable individuals, medics, and abortion providers."Warship: Life in the Royal Navy" (3 x 60, True North) offers an unprecedented look behind the scenes of the Royal Navy, tracing the history of Britain’s oldest fighting force. "Renee Gracie: Fireproof" (1 x 90, Rush Films) tells the story of Renee Gracie, a young motorsports star turned OnlyFans sensation after sexism drove her out of racing.
In the paranormal genre, Blue Ant Studios introduces a new series."My Haunted Hometown" (8 x 60, Blue Ant Studios for T+E & Haunt TV) takes viewers on a haunting road trip across North America, revisiting the terrifying experiences of three paranormal witnesses in each episode. The series explores how past events can still haunt these seemingly peaceful towns.
Finally, Blue Ant Studios announced the return of several popular series, including "Mysteries from Above" Season 4, "Race Against the Tide" Season 4, "Big Little Crimes" Season 2, "Gone Fishing" Season 7, "Great Australian Walks" Season 2, "Money for Nothing" Season 17, "Wildlife ER" Season 3, and "Neu Earth" Season 2.