Factual

NordicWorld CEO, Espen Huseby announced today the huge success at MIPCOM of their new multi-platform TV series National Treasures. ( https://nordicworld.tv/formats/catalogue/326).

Created by Irish prodco EZ Films , the 4 x 60’ series has been picked up by global production giant Fremantle, who have acquired the format rights for the series in a number of key territories around the world. The big multi-territory deal was brokered by Nordic World’s Ann Christin Siljan and Fremantle’s Levina Negi.

“National Treasures” explores the social history of a nation by uncovering the fascinating objects in the hands of its citizens at a series of roadshow events. Driven by a web-platform, audience participation and user data, this inclusive television format brings audiences to the fore to explore their stories, their objects and their history. The innovative format - created by Irish production house EZ Films in partnership with RTÉ and the National Museum of Ireland - sees a team of curators selecting objects for an upcoming exhibition, not based on the monetary value but rather the historical/cultural value that they hold.

NordicWorld CEO Espen Huseby commented: “National Treasures is a wonderful format that brings a nation’s history alive in a truly entertaining and informative way. It has all the ingredients that delight and engage viewers of all generations. The show was an instant winner when it aired on RTE and I believe that it will have the same success wherever it is broadcast”.

Levina Negi, VP Global Acquisitions and Development at Fremantle, immediately spotted the huge potential for the series and the deal was rapidly concluded at MIPCOM in Cannes. “National Treasures is a charming show that has the ability to travel brilliantly. Viewer engagement is a key element of the format and every household will have one or several objects and documents that illustrate and recount their country’s history that they will want to share. ”

EZ’s Dave Clarke added: “We are delighted to be able to bring the National Treasures format to other markets outside of Ireland and it’s very exciting for us to see other countries use the National Treasures model to let the public rediscover aspects of their history and culture. The unwavering support of RTÉ and the National Museum of Ireland during the production of the series was extremely important in allowing National Treasures reach its potential“.

The series was first broadcast this spring in a primetime Sunday evening slot on the Ireland’s national flagship channel RTE. Episode 1 secured a massive a 20% share in its first week of broadcast. The final episode climbing to 25% share in its final week.