What's Happening?
Sara May, a former executive at Netflix, has launched a new production company called Sonderworld, with backing from Goodfellas. The company aims to develop a slate of action and genre films that are globally
appealing, focusing on creating original intellectual property and franchises from the French and European markets. May, who has a background with TF1 and EuropaCorp, was instrumental in the success of the French action thriller 'Lost Bullet' during her tenure at Netflix. Sonderworld plans to produce six films initially, including action, elevated genre, urban, and dark comedy/crime features. The company is also open to English-language projects when the market scope is significant enough. May emphasizes the importance of packaging films with the right talent and market positioning to ensure global reach.
Why It's Important?
The launch of Sonderworld represents a strategic move to bridge the gap between European and global film markets, particularly in the action and genre sectors. By focusing on creating content that can compete internationally, Sonderworld aims to leverage the talents and infrastructure available in France and Europe. This initiative could potentially boost the European film industry's presence on the global stage, offering new opportunities for co-productions and collaborations, especially with UK producers. The backing from Goodfellas provides a strong foundation for international sales and co-productions, which could lead to increased investment and interest in European film projects.
What's Next?
Sonderworld plans to scale quickly over the next two years, building a significant volume of titles to make a substantial impact on the market. Sara May will be presenting projects at Cannes to potential co-production partners, aiming to establish strong collaborations across Europe. The company is also exploring the use of new technologies, such as AI, to enhance creative processes and world-building capabilities. This forward-thinking approach could set a precedent for other production companies looking to innovate and adapt to changing market dynamics.
Beyond the Headlines
Sonderworld's approach highlights a shift in the film industry towards more strategic and market-oriented production models. By focusing on risk management, sales realities, and investor psychology, the company aims to close the gap between traditional production methods and the evolving demands of the global market. This could lead to a more sustainable and profitable model for film production, encouraging other companies to adopt similar strategies. Additionally, the emphasis on creator-first approaches and ethical use of technology could influence industry standards and practices.
