“Distribution Is Back”: MIPCOM Boss Lucy Smith On The Cannes Market & TV Landscape

This year's MIPCOM is set to be exciting with a lineup that includes intriguing dramas like 'Shrunken Spouses' and a series featuring Richard Gadd. These selections highlight the industry's trend towards unique storytelling and engaging characters, promising to spark conversations among audiences and buyers alike. The anticipation around these titles reflects the evolving landscape of entertainment, making MIPCOM a key event for industry professionals.

Sky has made an exciting acquisition by securing the rights to 'The Miniature Wife,' a comedy-drama featuring Elizabeth Banks and Matthew Macfadyen, set to premiere in 2026. This show promises to bring humor to the complexities of marriage, making it a highly anticipated addition to Sky's lineup. With the star power of Banks and Macfadyen, this series is expected to attract a wide audience, showcasing Sky's commitment to delivering quality entertainment.

Secuoya Studios is set to receive the prestigious MIP SDG Award at Mipcom Cannes for its impactful sustainable production program. This recognition, presented in partnership with the United Nations, highlights the studio's commitment to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals. The award, established in 2020, underscores the importance of sustainability in the entertainment industry, making this achievement not only a win for Secuoya but also a significant step forward for eco-friendly practices in media production.

Beta Cinema has announced exciting new deals for Fatih Akin's film 'Amrum', which is set to hit German theaters this Thursday. This coming-of-age drama, selected for the prestigious Cannes film festival, has already garnered attention and secured distribution in Australia and New Zealand. The film's exploration of the final days of World War II adds a significant historical context, making it a noteworthy addition to the cinematic landscape.

Fremantle has unveiled 'Pandora's Box,' an innovative reality competition that draws inspiration from Greek mythology, transforming it into an engaging and strategic gameplay experience. With three global productions already in the works, this format showcases Fremantle's commitment to creative storytelling and entertainment. The show's unique premise not only captivates audiences but also highlights the timeless relevance of myths in modern entertainment, making it a significant addition to the reality TV landscape.

The French eco-thriller 'Sea Shadows' is gaining significant attention from international buyers, showcasing its popularity as one of the most-watched scripted shows in France this year. The series, which follows a marine scientist investigating a mysterious shipwreck, is set to make waves at the upcoming MIPCOM sales event. This buzz not only highlights the show's compelling narrative but also underscores the growing global interest in environmentally themed content, making it a noteworthy addition to the international television landscape.

Jafar Panahi, the acclaimed Iranian director, has finally arrived in the U.S. after a visa delay caused by the government shutdown. His first stop is at Beyond Fest, where he'll participate in a screening and Q&A for his award-winning film, 'It Was Just An Accident.' This is significant not only for Panahi's career but also for the film community, as it highlights the ongoing challenges filmmakers face in navigating international borders.

Sally Habbershaw is set to take the helm at Mediawan Rights, succeeding Valérie Vleeschhouwer, who is stepping down. This transition comes just ahead of MIPCOM Cannes, a significant event in the media industry. Habbershaw's move from All3Media International, where she was the Americas sales chief, back to Europe marks a strategic shift for Mediawan as it prepares for upcoming market opportunities. This change is noteworthy as it highlights the dynamic nature of leadership in the media sector.

PBS Distribution and Blink Films have successfully secured major international sales for their projects 'Ultimate Crash Test' and 'Terror on the Space Station' just ahead of Mipcom. This partnership highlights their dedication to bold storytelling and creative excellence, which is crucial in the competitive media landscape. Their previous collaborations have already set a high standard, making these new sales a significant step forward in expanding their global reach.

Luke Barnett's short film 'Ovation' cleverly satirizes the absurdity of standing ovation clocks at film festivals, a trend that many find pointless. By poking fun at how these ovations are timed and scrutinized, Barnett highlights a quirky aspect of film culture that often goes unchallenged. This film matters because it encourages audiences to think critically about the rituals surrounding film premieres and the often arbitrary nature of acclaim in the industry.

AGC Television has secured worldwide distribution rights for the gripping Nordic noir series 'A Wolf’s Prey', which will be showcased to international buyers at Mipcom. This six-episode Lithuanian-German crime-mystery follows a determined female detective as she investigates the brutal murder of a young woman in a remote town. This acquisition is significant as it highlights AGC's commitment to bringing compelling international stories to a broader audience, tapping into the growing popularity of Nordic noir.

AGC Television has made an exciting move by acquiring the Lithuanian-German thriller series 'A Wolf’s Prey,' which will be showcased to international buyers at MIPCOM. This series, currently in post-production, features a talented cast including Edward Holcroft and Ingeborga Dapkūnaitė. The acquisition highlights AGC's commitment to expanding its portfolio with unique international content, making it a significant development in the global television landscape.

Country music legend Dolly Parton quietly shared life with her husband, Carl Thomas Dean, for nearly six decades—a rare feat in the spotlight. The private businessman, who avoided fame, stood by her side since their 1966 wedding until his passing in early 2025. This piece peels back the curtain on their enduring love story, one built on mutual respect and deliberate privacy.

Questlove is set to bring the legendary band Earth, Wind & Fire to HBO with a documentary scheduled for 2026. This film will delve into the band's rich legacy and cultural significance, offering fans exclusive insights into their music and impact. It's an exciting opportunity to celebrate a group that has shaped the sound of generations, making it a must-watch for music lovers.

Taron Egerton and Jessica Henwick are teaming up for the comedy thriller 'Everybody Wants To F*ck Me,' a film that dives into the chaotic world of modern dating. Produced by notable companies like Studiocanal and LuckyChap, this project promises to blend humor with suspense, making it a highly anticipated release. With Egerton's charm and Henwick's rising star power, this film could resonate well with audiences looking for a fresh take on romantic comedies.

Rush has just announced additional dates for their highly anticipated 'Fifty Something' reunion tour, following their summer 2026 headlining tour announcement. Fans in cities like Los Angeles, Chicago, New York City, Toronto, Fort Worth, and Cleveland can look forward to more opportunities to see the legendary band perform live. This is exciting news for long-time fans and new listeners alike, as it showcases Rush's enduring legacy and commitment to their music.

This year's WIF Honors is set to celebrate the remarkable achievements of Jamie Lee Curtis, Tessa Thompson, and Regina King, among others, at the Beverly Hilton on November 6. The event not only recognizes these talented individuals but also highlights the contributions of women in film, making it an important occasion for the industry and fans alike.

Charlie Sheen is making headlines again as he signs with WME for representation, excluding speaking engagements. This comes on the heels of his autobiography, 'The Book of Sheen: A Memoir,' which has made a splash on the New York Times bestseller list, staying in the Top 10 for three consecutive weeks. This resurgence in his career is significant as it marks a new chapter for Sheen, who is also launching a production company with Todd Christopher, indicating a shift towards more creative control and new opportunities in the entertainment industry.