The show had a very simple theme but it does indirectly say a lot about getting things commissioned on Channel 5 (C5). Firstly it shows that you could pitch that show with just a one-line message. Commissioners like that approach, they find it awkward to turn down a Pitch that someone has spent months working on (but they do nevertheless). Usually you can get into the process, a one-liner will not get you a commission but it will get you in the door for further discussions. It also shows the C5 mission to entertain, they are not looking to educate or lecture you, like the BBC might do, just to entertain. It also shows that Celebrity is still important. That clarity and simplicity of the proposition are important.
C5 has grown audience throughout the year, largely due to new factual commissions. C5 are looking for Celebratory, Warm, …
Discovery presented their new show about Ed Stafford going off grid with his family. An interesting concept. Very popular with the audience. Not really my cup of tea but there were some interesting points made about financing. IT was a 4K production made in conjunction with the Singapore Media Authority, who were running a 4K initiative. They also worked with Beach House, a Singapore based producer. It shows that if you can’t get the full amount for a program commissioned you can and should look to non-traditional sources.