Industry

Topic’s streaming service, from the ambitious entertainment and storytelling studio First Look Media, has struck up a partnership with Fugitive, which will see the London-based development, financing, executive producing, and distribution company represent a slate of Topic’s Originals in the international marketplace. Fugitive will be Topic’s first distribution partner in representing long-form Originals that debuted on its streaming service.

The four Topic Original productions covered in this initial agreement are:

Rough Draft with Reza Aslan (8 x 60)
Writer, producer, and unflinching provocateur Reza Aslan digs deep while in conversation with some of the world’s most celebrated novelists, screenwriters and musicians, to take a fascinating, in-depth look at their creative processes and the art of storytelling.

What’s Your Ailment?! with Maria Bamford (10 x 40)
Comedian Maria Bamford sets about exploring the realities of depression and anxiety and removing the stigma that comes with mental health by using relatable stories, compassion, and her trademark sense of humour. Speaking candidly with fellow comedians and artists, including Tig Notaro and Tom Arnold, this topical series sees that no subject is off-limits.

The Guru Inside You (4 x 12)
In this comedy series, Vikram Gandhi reprises his iconic role as the false prophet Sri Kumaré, who aims to give spiritual guidance to his ‘followers’ by sharing his unique insights and wild and funny teachings on a range of hot issues. In this first season he tackles subjects such as community, anxiety and dieting – all with a whole new level of honesty and humour. Based on the award-winning 2012 documentary, Kumaré.

Second City Presents: The Last Show Left on Earth (4 x 30)
A new comedy series Topic created together with Second City, North America’s legendary comedy force and improvisational theatre troupe. Starring Second City alumni and their famous friends – and hosted by big names such as Jack McBrayer (30 Rock) - each half hour show features original sketches, musical performances, and rare footage from The Second City vaults.

Ryan Chanatry, general manager at Topic says: “Topic brings challenging, compelling and unconventional scripted and unscripted programming to North American audiences. We have developed and brought to life these titles ourselves and now we are keen to share and amplify this original programming by introducing international buyers to our exciting new stories and new voices. Fugitive knows us well and understands the Topic brand and streaming service, so we are delighted that they have become our first distribution partner.”

Anthony Kimble, Fugitive’s founder adds: “Topic has quickly grown its reputation for streaming exciting new programming at the forefront of culture. We are thrilled to be working with the team on this slate of Originals and hope to enhance that reputation still further while successfully finding the best-fit international homes for each of these series.”