Big Time Decent Ventures into Distribution
EXCLUSIVE: As we approach the much-anticipated MIPCOM Cannes event, there’s noteworthy news from the Canadian production landscape. Big Time Decent, a dynamic Canadian production company, is set to introduce its new distribution branch just in time for the upcoming market.
Set to make its debut at the MIPCOM gathering in October, Big Time Decent International will see René Brar stepping up to oversee the new division as Head of Development & Sales. Joining him in this new endeavor is Sarah McCormack, who previously held a position at Beyond Rights and more recently at Moonbug Entertainment, to bolster the team.
The company will establish its presence as part of the Canadian Pavilion at MIPCOM, signaling its official foray into the international arena.
Based in Vancouver, Big Time Decent has been behind popular series such as Rust Valley Restorers, Backroad Truckers, Yukon Rescue, Underdog Inc., and The Last Captains, collaborating with major platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Discovery Channel. These titles, along with new ventures from their newly formed scripted segment, Bread & Better Films, will be featured in their portfolio.
During MIPCOM, Brar and McCormack plan to actively scout for third-party series to enhance their catalog, setting aside dedicated funds for such acquisitions. They will also promote their existing titles to potential buyers.
Matthew Shewchuk, President of Big Time Decent Productions, expressed optimism about the new initiative, “Having built a solid foundation over the past five years and achieving several successful releases, we believe now is the ideal time to handle our own distribution and explore new opportunities to expand our intellectual property and further grow our business.”
Brar emphasized the current demand in the market, stating, “There is a significant appetite right now for unscripted, character-driven series that are engaging and heartfelt, which is precisely our forte.”
He further added, “Launching into international distribution is an exhilarating step for us. We aim to develop a distribution arm that mirrors the creative ethos of our production company. I am excited about this new chapter and thankful for having Sarah McCormack with us, whose experience and support are invaluable.”
Sarah McCormack, who has an impressive background, including a recent stint as Head of EMEA Sales for Moonbug, creators of Cocomelon and Blippi, and previous roles at Beyond and Flame Distribution, brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table.
The MIPCOM event, scheduled for October 13-16 in Cannes, has also recently unveiled its initial lineup of speakers for its summit on brand-funded programming. Notable industry figures such as Carlotta Rossi Spencer from Banijay Entertainment, Adam Puchalsky from Blink49 Studios, and Roberta Zamboni along with Sam Glynne from Fremantle, and UTA’s Head of EMEA, Entertainment and Culture Marketing, will be participating.
Daniel Hayes is a business journalist with a focus on market trends, startups, and corporate strategies.
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