Regarding the strategy for the creation and distribution of formats, the first panel of the last day at NEM Dubrovnik, «The Unscripted Quest: Hunting for the Next Hit Format», shared insights and reflected on the challenges and opportunities in creating content that resonates with global audiences, featuring leading names in the industry: IDTV (an All3media company), ITV, Fremantle, ZDF Studios, and CME.
Kevin Soares, EVP International Formats at IDTV, opened the discussion by reflecting on the unpredictable nature of creating hit shows. ‘Did you know it was going to be such a big success? You never know it’s going to be a big success. It needs to happen; everything needs to fall into the right place’, he remarked. Soares also highlighted that even with extensive experience, as with their long-running show The Mole, predicting success is never straightforward. ‘It’s very important to be in an adaptable position and recognize special opportunities when a format trend arises, even if the initial journey is fraught with challenges’, he added.
Meanwhile, Huub Van Ballegooy, Senior Vice President of Global Creative & Production Support at ITV Studios, spoke about the ongoing vitality of TV formats. Countering the notion that TV and formats are declining, he stated, ‘TV is changing, formats are changing, and the current situation is a testament to the viability and liveliness of our industry’. Exec stressed the importance of strategic partnerships and the right production collaborations in ensuring a format’s success across different markets, especially in regions like CEE.
Ralf Rückauer, Vice President of the Unscripted Department at ZDF Studios, discussed the need for reinvention within successful formats. He mentioned the importance of evolving content to keep it fresh and relevant, noting, ‘there are big shows, and currently the reinvention or remake is a new act, or one of the acts’. Rückauer’s insights underscore the necessity of innovation within established frameworks to maintain audience engagement.
Igor Draguzet, Chief Content Officer at CME, highlighted the scheduling challenges that come with episodic content in today’s fast-paced viewing environment. He noted, ‘it’s a brilliant thing, I think, for VOD because the tension builds up so dramatically that you want to see the next episode as soon as possible’. The COO pointed out the difficulty of maintaining audience patience over long periods, advocating for alternative scheduling strategies that align better with contemporary viewing habits.
Finally, Anahita Kheder, EVP EMEA for Formats & Licensing at Fremantle International, touched upon the blend of nostalgia and innovation in format creation. She reflected on the trend of reviving beloved past shows while also looking forward to new ideas. ‘People are kind of bringing back things from the past. Is that the direction that we’re going to be going in? I think it’s going to be a little bit of everything’, she observed. Kheder also emphasized the importance of leveraging familiar brands while remaining open to fresh and adaptable concepts.
