Beta Film's 'Rise of the Raven' Secures CBC Streaming Deal After Toronto Film Festival Premiere

What's Happening?

Beta Film has successfully sold the historical epic 'Rise of the Raven' to several territories, including Canada, where it will stream on CBC GEM following its North American premiere at the Toronto Film Festival. The 10-part series, which depicts the story of army commander János Hunyadi's defense against an Ottoman invasion, has already been broadcast in countries such as Germany, Slovakia, Switzerland, and Israel. The series has broken ratings records in Hungary and gained popularity among young audiences in Austria. Produced by Robert Lantos and co-produced by TV2 and ORF, the show is based on Bán Mór's best-selling novels and features a strong cast and production team.

Why It's Important?

The international success of 'Rise of the Raven' highlights the growing demand for historical dramas and the potential for cross-cultural storytelling in the television industry. By securing a streaming deal with CBC, the series is set to reach a wider audience in North America, potentially influencing future collaborations between international production companies and North American broadcasters. This move also underscores the importance of film festivals like Toronto in facilitating global distribution deals and showcasing diverse narratives to new markets.

What's Next?

Following its premiere at the Toronto Film Festival, 'Rise of the Raven' will be available to Canadian audiences on CBC GEM starting September 19. The series is expected to continue its international rollout, with Italy's RAI set to air it next year. As the show gains traction, it may lead to further adaptations or inspire similar historical dramas, potentially impacting programming decisions at major networks and streaming platforms.

Beyond the Headlines

The series not only entertains but also educates viewers on historical events, offering a nuanced portrayal of European history and the Ottoman Empire. It may spark discussions on historical accuracy and representation in media, encouraging viewers to explore the real-life figures and events depicted in the show. Additionally, the success of 'Rise of the Raven' could influence the production of more female-driven narratives, as the series prominently features strong female characters.