Spin Master, 9 Story Media Group alums launch IP outfit Victura Media in Cannes

MIPCOM: UK- and Canada-based entertainment franchise company Victura Media is making its debut here in Cannes, unveiling a slate of intellectual properties (IP) it is adapting for television, including projects aimed at global audiences.

Thom Chapman

Founded by Thom Chapman, a Spin Master alumnus, and former 9 Story Media Group executive producer Gráinne McNamara, Victura Media is presenting a range of projects, including the television adaptation of writer, director and presenter Dawn O’Porter’s 2015 young adult novel Paper Aeroplanes.

Victura Media optioned Paper Aeroplanes for television from O’Porter’s literary agent Adrian Sington. Known for its gritty, humorous and heartfelt exploration of adolescence and female friendship, the novel will be adapted for TV, with McNamara consulting on the project.

Beyond Paper Aeroplanes, Victura will also handle global distribution for Skybound Entertainment’s PSI Cops and Super Dinosaur, and is also relaunching Skybound Presents: Spike & Mike’s Festival of Animation in 2025.

The company’s platform-agnostic strategy focuses on discovering, managing and building global franchises aimed at kids, youth and adults. It is also consulting for Enterprise Ireland, assisting Irish prodcos with IP management, licensing and merchandising on a global scale.

Chapman, who has over 20 years of experience working with global brands such as Peanuts, Bakugan, Hatchimals and Paw Patrol, highlighted the shifts in the entertainment landscape: “There is an evolution happening with how audiences are curating their entertainment experiences, as well as the growth of creator-led content and the importance of fandom and community.”

“We founded Victura Media to connect the dots across IP management and grow global franchises from all areas of the business. We’re excited to be developing Dawn O’Porter’s standout teen novel and to be part of Skybound’s plans for the unconventional Spike & Mike’s Festival of Animation. These distinctive IPs highlight the character of our curated approach to brand development.”

O’Porter said of the TV adaptation of Paper Aeroplanes: “Paper Aeroplanes has a special place in my heart not just because it was my first novel but also because it is set on Guernsey where I spent much of my childhood. I think these characters will speak to women for generations to come. The trials and tribulations of their lives are timeless and the story celebrates the heart-stopping power of female friendship.”