PBS Distribution has acquired U.S. rights to Wildgaze Films’ love story “Trespasses” and Hera Pictures’ factual drama “I Fought the Law” from All3Media Intl.
“Trespasses” stars Lola Petticrew (“Say Nothing”), Tom Cullen (“The Gold”), and Emmy and Golden Globe winner Gillian Anderson (“Sex Education”).
The show tells the story of forbidden love set against the backdrop of the Troubles in 1970s Belfast.
The U.S. acquisition follows deals in Europe and Australia, and four nominations at the Irish Film and Television Awards.
“I Fought the Law”
Courtesy of Courtesy of All3Media Intl.
“Trespasses,” which was commissioned by the U.K.’s Channel 4, is from Wildgaze Films (“Brooklyn,” “An Education”), the independent production company run by Oscar-nominated producing duo Finola Dwyer and Amanda Posey.
It is directed by BAFTA winner Dawn Shadforth (“Mood,” “Adult Material”) and is based on Louise Kennedy’s debut novel, which was shortlisted for the Women’s Prize for Fiction and is adapted for television by rising talent Ailbhe Keogan (“Bad Sisters”) in her first lead writing credit.
“I Fought the Law,” starring BAFTA winner Sheridan Smith (“Cilla,” “Accused”), tells the real-life story of Ann Ming (Smith), a mother who, driven by unimaginable grief, challenged a centuries-old law to see her daughter’s murderer finally brought to justice.
The drama was created for ITV in the U.K. by Hera Pictures (“Hamnet,” “What It Feels Like for a Girl”), the independent production company founded by award-winning producer Liza Marshall (“Riviera,” “The State”).
“I Fought the Law,” written by Jamie Crichton (“All Creatures Great and Small”) and directed by Erik Richter Strand (“The Crown”), is based on Ann Ming’s book “For the Love of Julie.”
All3Media Intl. signed numerous deals for the drama ahead of its U.K. debut, including acquisitions in Europe, Asia and Australia.
Both shows are expected to launch this year.
Jennifer Askin, exec VP Americas at All3Media Intl., commented, “As the home of world-class drama, PBS is the perfect destination for ‘Trespasses’ and ‘I Fought the Law,’ and we’re delighted U.S. viewers will soon be able to immerse themselves in these powerful female-led stories. Featuring renowned on-screen talent alongside some of the industry’s best creative talents behind the camera, these unmissable dramas are proving a hit with critics and viewers alike, generating rave reviews and awards buzz, and it’s an honor to take them to a global audience through continued partnerships with leading broadcasters such as PBS.”