In the picturesque setting of the Karlovy Vary International film festival (KVIFF), Riff Raff Entertainment co-founders Ben Jackson and Katie Sinclair took center stage to discuss their company’s exciting future projects. The boutique production house, launched by Jackson and Jude Law in 2017, has been making waves in the industry with its unique approach to film and television production.
The festival, which runs from July 3-11 has become a hub for industry professionals to network, discover new talent, and unveil upcoming projects. This year, the spotlight was on Riff Raff Entertainment, offering a glimpse into their creative process and the innovative projects they have in development.
Expanding Horizons: Riff Raff’s Diverse Slate
Riff Raff Entertainment is currently nurturing a robust slate of 50 projects with around 30 fully developed and ready for financing. These projects are evenly split between films and television series, showcasing the company’s commitment to both mediums. Jackson and Sinclair emphasized their focus on producing high-quality content that resonates with audiences.
One of the most anticipated projects is a film about a getaway driver co-created by Law and Jackson. The idea was sparked by Law’s enjoyable experience with car chases in the film The Order. Zach Baylin who previously collaborated with Riff Raff on Black Rabbit and The Order has penned a script that promises to be a thrilling addition to the genre. Sinclair highlighted that this project not only showcases Law’s range as an actor but also marks a significant step for the company into larger-scale productions.
Collaborations and Co-Productions
Riff Raff Entertainment is also exploring international collaborations, with one notable project being a UK-Portuguese co-production with Laura Carreira. This film, following Carreira’s breakout debut, is set in Portugal and aims to capture the authenticity of the locale. Sinclair emphasized the importance of partnering with local production services to ensure creative involvement and authenticity.
The company’s commitment to international co-productions reflects their broader strategy to diversify their portfolio and tap into global talent and stories. This approach not only enriches their slate but also fosters cultural exchange and collaboration within the industry.
Industry Days: A Platform for Innovation
The Karlovy Vary Film Festival’s Industry Days running from July 5-8 has evolved into a dynamic platform for industry professionals to discuss emerging trends and challenges. This year, the program features a spotlight on Riff Raff Entertainment, alongside sessions with industry heavyweights like David Chase and Sharon Horgan.
Hugo Rosák head of the KVIFF Film Industry Office, highlighted the festival’s commitment to adapting to industry trends. New initiatives include the Book-to-Screen program which aims to support independent producers in accessing adaptation rights from Central and Eastern Europe. This program is part of a broader effort to address the unique challenges faced by producers in the region.
The festival also delves into emerging formats, such as vertical microdramas reflecting the rapid transformation of the audiovisual industry. Rosák emphasized the need for producers to diversify their approaches to storytelling and explore new channels and formats to ensure their survival in an ever-changing landscape.
As the film industry continues to evolve, Riff Raff Entertainment remains at the forefront, pushing boundaries and exploring new creative territories. Their participation in the Karlovy Vary Film Festival underscores their commitment to innovation and collaboration, setting the stage for an exciting future in film and television production.
