At Series Mania in Lille, Xavier Rambert, international research manager from Glance, led the conference “A Glance at Local Hits with International Potential”, exploring key trends shaping scripted content last year. His analysis highlighted a market balancing caution with creative ambition, as industry shifts drive new storytelling approaches.
One notable trend is the growing prominence of female-led narratives, particularly those placing women in roles historically dominated by men. Rambert pointed to Queen of Fing Everything (Finland) as an example of this shift, with female protagonists navigating complex and often morally ambiguous settings.
Period dramas are also gaining momentum, offering both historical reflection and contemporary relevance. Productions such as M – The Son of the Century, set to air on Sky Italy in 2025, and Whiskey on the Rocks illustrate the increasing demand for stories that use the past to engage with present-day themes.
Dramas set in business and elite circles continue to serve as strong narrative drivers. Examples include Los Casablanca (Chile), a family revenge drama set in the world of winemaking, and The Colour of Love (Portugal/Angola/Brazil), where romance and hidden truths shape the storyline. Africa also enters the spotlight with Love, Law, and Betrayal (South Africa), following a woman navigating the complexities of high-level legal battles. Meanwhile, Live (Kuwait) explores the consequences of social media influence, trapping a group of influencers in a gamified reality.
Rambert concluded by identifying key strategies for European producers navigating an evolving market: prioritizing crime and drama for stability, leveraging literary IP to minimize risk, incorporating comedic elements across genres, and investing in female-driven stories, particularly those challenging traditional power structures.
