Xavier Dolan’s ‘Rage,’ Andrew Leung’s ‘Ancient China of Mars,’ Eléa Gobbe-Mévellec’s ‘The Northern Star’ Among Highlights at Rome’s MIA Market

Dramas from public service broadcasters in the Nordics are gaining traction, but the pressure is mounting on scripted commissioners due to various market challenges. With global investment declining and local budgets tightening, there's an urgent need to adapt strategies to engage younger audiences and meet diverse viewer demands. This shift is crucial for the sustainability of Nordic dramas in a competitive landscape.

The animated sci-fi dramedy 'Ancient China of Mars' is making waves at Rome's MIA Market, showcasing a unique story set in a dystopian future. The series revolves around a struggling Chinese restaurant on a space station orbiting Mars, where the pursuit of dreams takes center stage. This offbeat comedy not only entertains but also highlights the immigrant experience, making it a timely and relevant narrative in today's world.

The MIA Market in Rome has kicked off its 11th edition, showcasing international films and series, but the event is overshadowed by Italian Culture Undersecretary Lucia Borgonzoni's strong criticism of Donald Trump's proposed tariffs on foreign-made films. She described the idea as 'insane,' highlighting concerns that such tariffs could harm cultural exchange and the film industry. This situation is significant as it reflects ongoing tensions in international trade and its potential impact on the arts.

Sony Pictures Television is set to introduce a new drama award at the MIA Market in Rome, marking an exciting development for the industry. This award will be presented for the first time during the annual MIA Drama Coproduction Market & Pitching Forum, recognizing outstanding talent and creativity in drama production. It's a significant step for SPT as it highlights their commitment to fostering new projects and supporting the creative community in Italy and beyond.

Dwayne Johnson recently reflected on the disappointing performance of his latest film, 'The Smashing Machine,' which only grossed $6 million at the box office. He emphasized that while it's tough to see a film underperform, the box office is beyond anyone's control. This perspective is important as it highlights the unpredictable nature of the film industry and reminds fans that even big stars face setbacks.

This year's Arab Critics' Awards for European Films has highlighted three remarkable films: 'Deaf' by Eva Libertad, 'DJ Ahmet' by Georgi M. Unkovski, and 'Yunan' by Ameer Fakher Eldin. Chosen by a jury of 100 critics from 16 Arabic-speaking countries, these films showcase diverse storytelling and talent from Europe. This recognition not only celebrates artistic achievements but also fosters cultural exchange and appreciation between the Arab world and European cinema.

Dramas from public service broadcasters in the Nordics are gaining traction, but the pressure is mounting on scripted commissioners due to various market challenges. With global investment declining and local budgets tightening, there's an urgent need to adapt strategies to engage younger audiences and meet diverse viewer demands. This shift is crucial for the sustainability of Nordic dramas in a competitive landscape.

Ruth Jones, known for her work on the hit show 'Gavin & Stacey', is teaming up with the BBC again to create a new comedy focused on middle-aged relationships. This untitled series, co-written and co-starring Steve Speirs, explores the unexpected friendship that blossoms between two individuals who meet at a knee trauma clinic. This project is exciting not only because of Jones's impressive track record but also because it addresses relatable themes of friendship and aging, making it a timely addition to the comedy landscape.

Erik Poppe, the renowned Norwegian filmmaker, has begun filming 'Bad Moon Rising' in Norway, a relationship drama based on the original script by 2023 Nobel Prize winner Jon Fosse. This collaboration is significant as Fosse's reputation spans across the U.S., Japan, and Europe, making this project highly anticipated in the film industry. The film not only showcases Fosse's literary prowess but also highlights Poppe's directorial talent, promising a captivating cinematic experience.

The trailer for 'Sunday Ninth,' a poignant Belgian drama directed by Kat Steppe, has been unveiled ahead of its premiere at the Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival. The film explores the emotional journey of two brothers reconnecting as one faces the challenges of Alzheimer's disease. This marks Steppe's first foray into fiction after her successful documentary work, making it a significant moment for her career and for audiences seeking heartfelt narratives about family and memory.