Scripted

IWC, a Banijay Group company, today announces it has been commissioned to make an 3x30’ series, Shelf Isolation for BBC Scotland.

At a time where we are being asked to stay indoors, some of us may now be able to read more books, watch that classic movie and finally catch up on one of those box-sets our friends have been raving about. In this brand-new series, Shelf Isolation, award-winning author and cultural guru, Damian Barr (in pictures), will be remotely meeting with some famous Scottish names to get their tips on what to read, watch and listen to. The line-up includes actor, Mark Bonnar (Quiz, Shetland, Line of Duty, Guilt, Catastrophe), comedian, actor, writer and director, Greg Hemphill (Still Game, Chewin’ the Fat), and award-winning crime writer, playwright and graphic novelist, Denise Mina.

Damian will be interviewing his guests from his home via an app to record the discussion and giving us a window into their homes. In these intimate talks, he will not only be finding out what cultural pleasures our guests would most recommend to help get us through these troubled times, but also the emotional impact they have and how they reveal something about their own lives.

Pauline Law, Executive Producer and Head of Factual at IWC said: “Damian’s passion for literature and culture, and his skills as an intelligent and nuanced interviewer make him the perfect presenter to get recommendations out of some of Scotland’s best-loved celebrities. We are looking forward to finding creative and innovative ways to produce this show for BBC Scotland in these extraordinary times.”

Damian Barr said: “The books, films and music we love say so much about us – every time we pick up a novel or sit down to another box set, we add another chapter to the story of ourselves. And they give us the chance to forget about the world around us and disappear somewhere else, if only for a while. Right now we can’t leave home but we can still travel and meet new people and have new experiences in books, tv and film “Shelf Isolation” gives us a unique glimpse into how some well-known folk are self-isolating as they reveal what’s getting them through - the classics they’re returning to or their latest box-set binge. I’m delighted to be presenting this show and hope it gives viewers (and me!) inspiring, distracting and comforting recommendations. Join us!”

“I’m looking forward to a new series of The Big Scottish Book Club later in the year but in the meantime, “Shelf Isolation” will provide some much needed fun, humour but also insightful chat on what are the best books, movies and box sets to catch up on at this time” says Gareth Hydes, Commissioning Editor, BBC Scotland... “Damian Barr was a great host for the first series of Big Scottish Book Club and there couldn’t be anyone better to get some top names opening up about their favourite books and entertainment choices. ”

The series has been commissioned by Gareth Hydes, commissioning editor BBC Scotland, and is Executive Produced by Pauline Law for IWC. Shelf Isolation will be distributed globally by Banijay Rights.