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Mediterráneo makes a splash at Mipcom with innovative lineup
Mediterráneo, the international distribution arm of Mediaset España, has taken the spotlight at Mipcom with a diverse and powerful range of new shows. This year’s slate is one of the strongest ever seen, reflecting significant growth and strategic alliances.
The new shining star: “La Favorita 1922”
La Favorita 1922 is at the helm of this year’s lineup, marking a notable first collaboration with Bambú Producciones, a name synonymous with revolutionary Spanish scripted series like “Grand Hotel” and “Velvet”. Set in the bustling city of Madrid, the story follows Marquise Elena de Valmonte of Seville as she strives to transform an abandoned restaurant into the finest dining establishment in the capital. The series is characterized by a blend of love, intrigue, humor, and a touch of thriller, intricately crafted to captivate the audience.
“La Favorita 1922 is superbly produced with exceptional detail,” remarked Ghislain Barrois, highlighting the meticulous planning that went into its production. At an early meeting, the production team revealed a comprehensive 500-page book elaborating on every blueprint and set detail, demonstrating the commitment to authenticity and quality.
Watch the trailer for “La Favorita 1922”
Exploring “Detective Romi”
Next on the list is “Detective Romi”, a compelling story centered around Romina Goitia, a hearing-impaired private detective. Created by Iker Azkoitia, a writer known for his work on Netflix’s “Élite”, and directed by Inés París, the series delves into Romi’s investigation into the mysterious death of her father, which she suspects was a murder.
The series is noted for its unique emotional, visual, and sound universe, reflecting the protagonist’s experiences. París describes the series as a beautiful challenge, emphasizing the distinct perspective of a young, deaf detective. This innovative approach adds depth and authenticity to the storytelling, offering a refreshing twist to the procedural genre and stirring up anticipation among drama enthusiasts.
Discover more about “Detective Romi”
Historical intrigue with “El Marqués”
“El Marqués” is a gripping series based on a true story from 1975. The plot revolves around the mysterious deaths of five workers on the estate of a wealthy family. Despite popular theories, the killer remains unidentified, providing a narrative rich with suspense and social commentary. Produced in collaboration with Unicorn Content and directed by Ignacio del Moral and Begoña Álvarez, “El Marqués” explores themes of corruption and community division, reflecting the complex social fabric of the time.
Barrois acknowledges the creative challenges faced during production, noting the intricate intersecting storylines that have culminated in impressive results. The series not only captivates audiences in Spain but also resonates on a global scale, showcasing Mediterráneo’s storytelling prowess.
Expanding horizons with strategic collaborations
On the eve of Mipcom, Mediterráneo’s head, Ghislain Barrois, detailed the company’s strategic approach to production and sales, emphasizing the importance of collaborations. The alliance with Prime Video has been particularly impactful, allowing for a dynamic interplay between first TV window rights in Spain and second window international rights.
This strategy has proven successful, as seen with titles like “Wrong Side of the Tracks” Season 3, which topped Netflix’s global non-English TV series charts earlier this year. The focus on curation, production, and promotion is a cornerstone of Mediterráneo’s approach, ensuring high-quality content reaches a broad audience.
Connecting with global audiences
Spain has emerged as a hotspot for new and catalog content, with streamers increasingly favoring global languages like English and Spanish for new commissions. This trend aligns with Mediterráneo’s approach, leveraging Spain’s growing reputation for high-quality fiction based on true events.
An evolution in content distribution
Mediterráneo has successfully integrated various production companies such as Telecinco Cinema and Alea Media, enriching their portfolio with projects like “Patria” and Isabel Allende’s adaptation “A Long Petal of the Sea”. This integration showcases the breadth and depth of their content, ranging from fantasy thrillers like “Pan’s Labyrinth” to realistic dramas.
Barrois reflects on Mediterráneo’s evolution, emphasizing the importance of selecting the best production company for each project. The focus is not just on production but on nurturing and promoting each show, ensuring it stands out in a crowded market.
Final thoughts
Mediterráneo’s impressive lineup at Mipcom underscores their innovative approach to content creation and distribution. By blending modern melodramas, crime stories based on true events, and involving diverse production houses, Mediterráneo continues to set new benchmarks in the industry. As Spain strengthens its position as a key player in the entertainment sector, Mediterráneo’s offerings are poised to captivate audiences worldwide.
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