23 October 2024
All3Media has unveiled four new adaptations of Two Brothers Pictures’ format “Liar,” bringing the number of territories producing local versions of the show to 15.
Botswana Ignite will produce one of the new adaptations, marking the first time the IP will be seen in Africa and the first time that one of All3Media International’s scripted formats will be adapted in Sub-Saharan Africa. Executive Producer and Project Director of Botswana Ignite,
Duncan Irvine, (former founder and owner of Rapid Blue) said he’s “incredibly happy to be bringing this compelling drama to the Botswana Ignite project.
It is an international drama with phenomenal pedigree, and with it being produced by an incredible team, will provide not only a great drama series to Botswana but a great opportunity for the Botswana film industry to learn and springboard from.”
New versions of “Liar” are also in development in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, although the specific countries have not yet been announced. These territories join ten that already have their own adaptations: India, Italy, France, Germany, Spain, Greece, Slovakia, Turkey, Malaysia, and Georgia.
Popular on Variety
Written by Harry and Jack Williams, “Liar” debuted in the U.K. in 2017, where it was produced by Two Brothers Pictures for ITV. In the fictional thriller series, two people’s initial attraction to one another has far-reaching consequences for them and everyone close to them. “Liar” tells two sides of the same story, both of which are true, and examines themes of gender politics, family life and the destructive nature of deceit.
The U.K. original aired to strong reviews, earning a second season commission at ITV. Last year, the Malaysian “Liar” adaptation won Best Adaptation of an Existing Format at the Asian Academy Creative Awards.
All3Media executive VP Content Maartje Horchner said of the new adaptations:
“The universally resonant storytelling and adaptability of Liar is once again made notable through these four new versions.
With multiple international partners previously producing impeccably crafted and compelling adaptations of Two Brothers Pictures’ format, we have every confidence these latest versions of Liar will deliver universal and culturally resonant viewing for new audiences.”
BOTSWANA IGNITE! is touted as “the most ambitious and exciting opportunity for the film and television community that will change the face of the creative industry of Botswana”. Botswana Ignite strives to help expand the local film industry, enabling aspiring filmmakers and visual storytellers to showcase their unique narrative voices. Itincludes the newly developed Botswana Film Commission (launched in September 2024), Botswana TV Academy, and Botswana Wildlife Film School, as well as masterclasses and mentorship. In partnership with Harvey’s foundation, NYFA will provide three 1-week online courses to support necessary training in creative and technical aspects of filmmaking.
Source: https://variety.com/2024/tv/global/botswana-ignite-local-adaptation-two-brothers-liar-1236183686/
