The 2012 Conference Success
The 2012 Conference program included seven key sessions.
In addition to these key sessions, there were a number of case studies, workshops and conversations.
We screened eight films in full and celebrated the filmmakers as part of our F4 screening program.
The hot topics included factual programming for kids, the global content market, the cultural dimension of content funding, Dr. Ruth Harley provided an update on the convergence review and we debated the definition of documentary.
Watch Some of the Session Recordings Now
Key Address with Nick Fraser, BBC, UK - Why Documentary Matters
Key Address with Christian Murphy, A&E Networks, USA - The Global Content Market
Public Broadcasters Around the World: A Stocktake
More recordings will be available over the coming months.
To view the full program, click here.
Interview with PBS International
We speak to Charles Schuerhoff, Director of Acquisitions at PBS International, before he arrives at the Conference -
How would you describe the PBS International profile?
PBS International is part of PBS Distribution, a joint venture of PBS and WGBH/Boston, that distributes not only WGBH-produced programming but also programs made by many independent producers from the US and abroad, with an emphasis on documentaries suited for the international broadcast and non-theatrical markets.
For PBS Video - another part of PBS Distribution - we also seek programming suitable for the home entertainment and educational markets in the U.S. and Canada.
Some programs and producers in our catalogue include: Trials of Henry Kissinger and Taxi to the Dark Side from Alex Gibney; The Cival War, Jazz and the Rest of Ken Burns’ programs; Frontline Nova and American Experience and others (from WGBH); The Blues: Presented by Martin Scorcese, New York from Ric Burns, American Revealed by Lion TV (in production).
What type of content is PBS International looking for?
Ideally we prefer subjects with international relevance, strong stories and characters and high production values - but these are only general guidelines. We do not look for reality shows or productions focused on purely local issues.
We are interested in the subjects of history, science, current affairs, social issues, art/culture and lifestyle.
We look for high quality documentaries, one-offs, mini-series and series, mainly TV-hours.
What are you hoping to acheive at the 2012 Conference?
We are looking for a few good documentaries to distribute internationally.
Interview with Aljazeera Documentary Channel
We speak to Mostafa Nagy, Head of Programs at Al Jazeera Documentary Channel, before he arrives at the Conference -
How would you describe the Al Jazeera Documentary Channel profile?
AJD is a dedicated documentary channel broadcasting in Arabic 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Launched in 2007, AJD aspires to be recognised as a leader in the development, production, transmission and distribution of exceptional world-class documentary films in the Middle East.
Aligned with the overall mission of Al Jazeera Media Network, AJD is a bridge between peoples and cultures and supports the right of individuals to acquire information, knowledge, and to strengthen the values of tolerance, democracy and the respect of liberties and human rights.
What type of content is AJD looking for?
Al Jazeera Documentary offers a wide range of documentaries on culture, science, environment, history, travel, politics and the arts. In 2011 AJD acquired over 800 hours and commissioned over 200 hours.
Can you describe the AJD audience?
Our audience is 72% Male and 28% Female. Middle Eastern and North Africa Arabic Speakers. The age brackets are as follows:
15-24 13.11%
25-34 20.15%
35-44 22.09%
45-54 25.24%
55+ 19.42%
What are you hoping to achieve at the 2012 Conference?
I am hoping to get a greater exposure to films produced in the Australasian region.
Interview with ABC Children's Television
Prior to ABC Children's Television attending the 2012 Conference we had a conversation with the team to find out what their market interests are and why they are attending.
How would you describe the profile of ABC Children's Television?
Children's content is of particular importance to the ABC. Our aim is to provide a broad array of programming on multiple platforms that is designed to challenge, entertain and excite and which embodies a true Australian sensibility.
Our offerings are unrivalled by any other network, providing children around the country new adventure, animation, comedy and factual programs, designed specifically for them.
ABC TV's vision for young Australians is a free, dedicated children's channel where all aspects of life can be explored in a safe, trusted, ad-free environment with a distinctive Australian voice.
What slots are there to be filled?
ABC3’s schedule offers a wide range of program genres. We deliver experiences and content that caters to the many different needs and interests of our audience because we understand the diverse and varied lives of Australian kids better than anyone else.
Premium factual and entertainment programming is showcased around the schedule creating multiple access points to a wide variety of content.
Premium factual entertainment titles have been scheduled with great success in key day parts such as 6.30pm Monday-Friday, Saturday evenings and Sunday afternoons while Monday-Friday 10am-1pm on ABC3 is a regular factual entertainment time slot.
What will you be looking for at AIDC 2012
Factual and Entertainment Formats for 8 – 12 year olds/10 – 15 year olds
We are open to formats based on a range of topics, but we are particularly interested in wildlife ideas. For us what is more important is the format rather than the subject matter. We want to know what the point of difference and angle is for your format. What makes Masterchef, not just another cooking show? What makes Top Gear a show that appeals to more than just those interested in cars? How does a show about ballroom dancing become a top rating prime time hit? Format. Format. Format.
It could feature ordinary kids experiencing extraordinary situations, as in Prank Patrol. Or it could have a strong narrative thread that follows ‘characters’ the audience can connect with emotionally, on a journey of a lifetime, such as Outback 8 or Serious Andes. Sometimes a sense of competition or rivalry can be key, so that the format builds real jeopardy where the stakes are high and there are twists at every turn. Scorpion Island is a great example of this. It could be a factual format like Barney’s Barrier Reef which has a narrative that keeps you watching, comedy that keeps you entertained and knowledge nuggets that empower our audience to start the ‘did you know’ water cooler conversations in playgrounds around the country.
Talent is also something that you should consider. It’s important to note these may not always be the fresh faced, clean cut obvious choices. Sometimes the most unlikely candidate can be the perfect fit. Be bold – surprise us!
Deadly 60, Michaela’s Wild Challenge and The Crocodile Hunter are great examples. They also feature elements that build drama and jeopardy either by focusing on deadly animals or exciting challenges that keep you hooked to the end. Programs with strong multi-platform or cross platform elements that have potential for a life outside the box are also highly desirable.
Could you give us any examples of successful factual programming on ABC 3?
ABC Children’s Television is dedicated to providing new and stimulating landmark television for our audiences and as such we are always looking for programs that are going to deliver a fresh and stimulating entertainment experience to our audience. Successful factual entertainment formats on ABC3 include Prank Patrol, Scorpion Island, Barney’s Barrier Reef, Serious Andes, Deadly 60, Michaela's Wild Challenge and Outback 8. They are all very different programs but all feature strong formats.
