Please wait...
Please wait...

Foxtel adapts novel, grows HBO deal

Game of Thrones

Foxtel’s deal with HBO includes such shows as Game of Thrones

Australian pay TV platform Foxtel is working on a six-part drama series based on an iconic novel and has expanded its deal with HBO in the US.

Picnic at Hanging Rock (6×60′) is based on the book of the same name, which was released in 1967 and turned into a hugely successful feature film eight years later.

The TV version is currently in pre-production locally with FremantleMedia after the production company secured investment from Screen Australia.

The drama will plunge viewers into the mysterious disappearances of three schoolgirls and their governess on Valentine’s Day 1900 and the far-reaching aftermath.

The series will be distributed by FremantleMedia International and is due to air on Foxtel in 2017.

Foxtel head of drama Penny Win said: “Like many others, I am a fan of the 1975 Australian film which was pivotal in establishing the modern Australian film industry. This series, based on the classic novel, will take viewers on a new and in-depth journey into this incredibly iconic Australian story.”

In related news, Foxtel has expanded its licensing agreement with HBO, giving it access to more of the US cablenet’s dramas, comedies and documentaries.

The new agreement now includes comprehensive on-demand rights that remove any prior programming ‘rest periods’ for series such as the latest Game of Thrones or classic shows like The Sopranos and The Wire.

As of January 1 next year, Foxtel customers will be able to stream past and present HBO series on demand via Foxtel Anytime.

  

RELATED ARTICLES

Please wait...