Fremantle has been named the winner of the inaugural International Producer of the Year award by The Hollywood Reporter (THR). This prestigious award recognizes the most exciting and innovative independent producer from outside the U.S. Fremantle will receive the award at a gala event at the Venice Film Festival on September 3, 2023.
With nearly 50 companies within its global network, including UFA, Lux Vide, Abot Hameiri, and Passenger, Fremantle is a major player in the international independent production industry. In 2022, the company generated revenues exceeding $2.5 billion (€2.3 billion), solidifying its position as one of the biggest international indies in the market.
Fremantle’s strategy, spearheaded by CEO Jennifer Mullin, Group COO and CEO of Continental Europe Andrea Scrosati, and CEO of Global Drama Christian Vesper, played a significant role in securing the International Producer of the Year award. The company has focused on investing in talent by doubling down on high-end drama, including independent film. It has expanded its portfolio by acquiring renowned production companies such as Element Pictures, Wildside, and The Apartment. Additionally, Fremantle has entered into first-look and development deals with influential creatives like Angelina Jolie, Edward Berger’s Nine Hours, Johan Renck, Neil Cross, and Nicholas Weinstock.
Contrary to simply seeking growth through mergers and acquisitions, Fremantle’s primary objective was to invest in talent for long-term success. This strategy has paid off, as the company’s revenues surpassed $1.1 billion (€1 billion) in the first half of this year. Despite its remarkable growth, Fremantle has remained committed to producing high-quality and boundary-pushing content. Notably, it will have five productions premiering at the Venice Film Festival, including Yorgos Lanthimos’ “Poor Things,” Sophia Coppola’s “Priscilla,” Saverio Costanzo’s “Finally Dawn,” Stefano Sollima’s “Adagio,” and Pietro Castellito’s “Enea.” Fremantle is also involved in upcoming projects such as Angelina Jolie’s “Without Blood” and Luca Guadagnino’s adaptation of William S. Burroughs’ cult novel “Queer.”
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Renowned filmmaker Stefano Sollima praised Fremantle for its unique approach to production. He commended the company for having a vision and the ability to support others’ creative visions while providing resources and protecting the creative process. Through innovative financing and distribution methods that uphold creative freedom, as well as its Global Drama division’s cross-border co-production initiatives, Fremantle has positioned itself as not only an exceptional independent producer but also a visionary one. This inaugural International Producer of the Year award acknowledges Fremantle’s contributions in shaping the future of drama production.
Edward Berger, the director behind Nine Hours, expressed his admiration for Fremantle’s creative spirit and their ability to foster a sense of family. He applauded the company’s well-deserved recognition, emphasizing his pride in collaborating with Fremantle.
In conclusion, Fremantle’s exceptional talent, visionary approach, and commitment to high-quality content have secured it the coveted title of International Producer of the Year. With its extensive network and continued investment in talent, the company is poised to shape the future of the global entertainment industry.
