In an exclusive relationship going forward, Narrativia, the independent production company launched by Sir Terry Pratchett in 2012, strikes new development deal with Motive Pictures and Endeavor Content to create truly authentic Discworld screen adaptations.
Discworld, the iconic and enduringly popular literary phenomenon, spans a series of beloved novels that sold in excess of 100 million copies around the world during Sir Terry’s lifetime and remain as popular today. Now, Narrativia, Motive Pictures and Endeavor Content announce a brand new partnership which will bring this treasured world to screens in a series of prestige adaptations that remain absolutely faithful to Sir Terry Pratchett’s original, unique genius.
The spirit of this new alliance has been forged from a shared love of the source material, and a commitment to create an epic series, which will kick off with some of the most iconic titles in Sir Terry’s fiercely incisive and satirical universe.
Rhianna Pratchett, Co-Director of Narrativia, says: “Discworld teems with unique characters, witty narrative and incredible literary tropes, and we feel these should be realised on screen in a form that my father would be proud of. It’s wonderful to embark on this journey with Motive and Endeavor Content, who both perfectly share our vision to make this a reality.”
Rob Wilkins, Managing Director of Narrativia, says: “The Discworld books are a huge source of joy to millions of readers, and rightly so; every paragraph, phrase and footnote was crafted with brilliance and flair and we are committed to bringing Terry’s world to the screen with the respect and care it deserves. With this partnership, we are delighted to say that Discworld has finally found its home.”
Simon Maxwell, CEO of Motive Pictures says: “Discworld is a national treasure and we are thrilled to be forging this new partnership with Narrativia and Endeavor Content. Together we will produce shows that will be loved by millions of Discworld fans worldwide, whilst also opening up Sir Terry Pratchett’s epic creations and legacy to new audiences. We launched Motive to make high quality British shows with global scale and impact and I can think of nothing that exemplifies that ambition more than this hugely exciting partnership.”
Lorenzo De Maio, Head of TV Advisory for Endeavor Content adds, “We are honoured to bring Sir Terry Pratchett’s Discworld to the screen, in partnership with best-in-class producers Narrativia and Motive Pictures. Discworld is a masterpiece of storytelling, and we look forward to working with our partners to bring it to audiences worldwide.”
The deal was struck by Rob Wilkins of Narrativia and Simon Maxwell of Motive Pictures, with Endeavor Content. Executive Producers for Motive Pictures will be Simon Maxwell and Sam Lavender, and Endeavor Content will handle worldwide sales.
Notes to Editors:
ABOUT MOTIVE PICTURES
Motive Pictures is an independent British production company specialising in premium drama series and feature films for the UK, US and international markets, and backed by Endeavor Content. Before launching the company in 2019, CEO and Executive Producer Simon Maxwell was Head of International Drama at Channel 4 where he spearheaded the channel’s co-production strategy and commissioned a raft of ambitious shows including Humans (the highest rated drama for 20 years on C4), Born To Kill, Philip K Dick’s Electric Dreams, Kiss Me First, Chimerica and The First. Executive Producer Sam Lavender was previously Senior Commissioning Executive at Film4 where he was responsible for The Favourite, The Lobster, American Animals, The True History of the Kelly Gang and Saint Maud with development credits that include the Oscar-winning Slumdog Millionaire.
ABOUT NARRATIVIA
Narrativia is an independent production company, launched in 2012 by Sir Terry Pratchett. The company owns and controls the exclusive multimedia and merchandising rights to all of Sir Terry’s works, including his Discworld characters and creations. The company is headed by Managing Director Rob Wilkins and celebrated writer Rhianna Pratchett. In 2019 Narrativia saw the release of Good Omens with Amazon Studios and BBC Studios, based on the internationally bestselling novel by Sir Terry Pratchett & Neil Gaiman.
ABOUT ENDEAVOR CONTENT
Endeavor Content is a global leader in the development, financing and sales of premium film, television, theatre and audio content. Endeavor Content seeks to facilitate more ownership and creative freedom for artists, creators and production companies in an ever-evolving media landscape. Endeavor Content is a division of Endeavor, a global sports, entertainment and content company.
ABOUT SIR TERRY PRATCHETT
Sir Terry Pratchett was the acclaimed creator of the global best-selling Discworld series and during his lifetime became Britain’s best-selling adult author. He was appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 1998 and knighted for services to literature in the 2009 New Year Honours. In 2001 he won the Carnegie Medal and went on to receive multiple literary awards, ten honorary doctorates and the World Fantasy Award for Life Achievement.
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