French deal for Eyeworks gameshow

Pubcaster France 2 has commissioned a local production of gameshow Anno Domini, developed by Eyeworks and produced by Sony Pictures TV International.

After a licence deal with UK distributor Eyeworks Distribution, the network is launching the 28×45′ series tomorrow, stripped in the 17.00 slot and given the local title Carbonne 14.

The show, which challenges contestants to put key historical events in date order, was originally developed by Eyeworks Germany and is based on a board game of the same name.

Yvonne Pilkington, Eyeworks Distribution’s MD, said the deal continued the format’s success with state-run European channels, having been produced for a daily slot in Italy (Magnolia for Rai-2) in 2004, and also for a weekly slot in Belgium (VRT) and Norway (NRK).

“The central proposition of Anno Domini is fun but intelligent, which suits France 2’s profile perfectly, and they have also been reassured by its considerable track record on other state channels,” said Pilkington.

“All the talk right now is of gameshows coming back but this one has never gone away.”