What's Happening?
Vienna-based ORF-Enterprise is presenting the Portuguese mystery drama 'Jones' at the European Film Market in Berlin. The series, produced by Caracol Studios for Portuguese broadcaster RTP, is a six-part whodunit with a supernatural twist. Created and directed by Bruno Gascon, 'Jones' features British actor Amanda Abbington and a Portuguese ensemble cast. The plot revolves around a murder at a family gathering in Sintra, with Inspector Oliver Jones, played by José Pimentão, using his ability to communicate with the dead to solve the case. The series combines elements of Agatha Christie-style mysteries with dark humor and family drama. It is being marketed as a premium, export-ready series with a supernatural edge, appealing to streamers and broadcasters
interested in high-concept crime dramas.
Why It's Important?
The introduction of 'Jones' at the European Film Market highlights the growing international appeal of Portuguese-origin dramas. By positioning the series as a premium, genre-driven drama, ORF-Enterprise aims to expand its international sales and reach new markets. The series' supernatural elements and multilingual format enhance its appeal to a diverse audience, potentially increasing its marketability. This move reflects a broader trend in the entertainment industry, where non-English language content is gaining traction globally, driven by audiences' desire for unique storytelling and cultural diversity. The success of 'Jones' could pave the way for more Portuguese productions to enter the international market, benefiting the country's film industry.
What's Next?
Following its debut at the European Film Market, 'Jones' is expected to secure distribution deals in various international territories. ORF-Enterprise is actively negotiating with potential buyers, focusing on securing premium first-window partners to maximize the series' visibility and value. The series' multilingual nature is seen as an advantage, allowing it to reach a wider audience. As negotiations progress, the series could become a significant player in the international drama market, potentially leading to further collaborations between Portuguese and international production companies.
