What's Happening?
BritBox is reportedly close to finalizing a deal to produce 'Chocolate Wars,' a drama series that chronicles the rise of confectionery empires in the 19th century. The series is inspired by Deborah Cadbury's 2010 historical book, which details the competition among British families like Cadbury, Rowntree, and Fry, as well as American entrepreneur Milton Hershey and European firms such as Nestlé and Lindt. The project has been in development for over eight years and is being produced by Sony Pictures Television-backed Fable Pictures in association with Alfresco Pictures, founded by Freddie Highmore and Claire Londy. Chloë Mi Lin Ewart, known for her work on PBS's 'All Creatures Great and Small,' is attached as the lead writer. The series aims
to explore the industrial revolution and the roots of capitalism through the lens of the chocolate industry. Although BritBox has not yet finalized the deal, production is expected to begin later this year, with UKTV set to co-produce.
Why It's Important?
The development of 'Chocolate Wars' highlights the growing trend of streaming services investing in original content to attract and retain subscribers. For BritBox, a streaming service owned by BBC Studios, this series represents an opportunity to expand its slate of original programming and compete with larger platforms. The historical context of the series offers a unique narrative that could appeal to audiences interested in both history and drama. Additionally, the involvement of well-known production companies and actors like Freddie Highmore could enhance the series' appeal. The project also underscores the continued interest in stories that explore the industrial revolution and the evolution of capitalism, providing viewers with both entertainment and educational value.
What's Next?
If the deal is finalized, production on 'Chocolate Wars' is expected to commence later this year. The series will likely be distributed internationally by Sony, potentially reaching a wide audience. As BritBox continues to expand its original content offerings, it may attract more subscribers, particularly those interested in historical dramas. The success of 'Chocolate Wars' could influence future programming decisions by BritBox and other streaming services, encouraging further investment in similar historical narratives. Additionally, the series could spark renewed interest in the history of the chocolate industry and its impact on modern capitalism.
