Forging Global Footprints: Ingenuity in Television Content Creation

The Essence of Content Creation: Balancing Novelty and Proven Success

Ákos Erdos, the CEO of Paprika Studios Group, a production powerhouse with operations across seven Central and Eastern European nations, emphasized the pivotal role of original programming in their operational philosophy. He noted the constant challenge of meeting broadcasters' requests for innovative, never-before-seen content while simultaneously grappling with their preference for concepts that have already demonstrated success. This dichotomy drives Paprika's strategic approach to content development and adaptation.

Strategic Content Adaptation: Local Hits Go Global

Paprika Studios has found success by crafting formats that can be effectively tailored for diverse international markets. A prime example is their culinary series, \"Fish on the Cake,\" which has aired over 700 episodes in more than a dozen countries. The show features five celebrities hosting dinners, competing to create the most perfect evening for their guests. Another triumph, the dramedy \"Tiger Daddy,\" originating in Hungary, has been successfully adapted for a Czech audience. This series follows a single father's journey raising three stepdaughters, and his subsequent quest for a new partner once they embark on independent lives.

Shifting Tides: The Resurgence of Reality and Drama's Evolution

Erdos also highlighted \"Murderesses,\" a compelling drama about a community police officer investigating her missing father while unraveling a murder, which has found distribution on Netflix in Poland and other streaming platforms globally. He observed a significant shift in market trends, noting a renewed surge in demand for reality programming, a reversal from the previous focus on scripted dramas. Erdos enthusiastically discussed \"The Traitors,\" a global hit reality format currently being produced by Paprika in Hungary and Romania, acknowledging its widespread appeal.

Navigating Market Realities: The Challenge of Sustained Engagement

Despite the current popularity of reality shows, Erdos cautioned that lengthy reality series with numerous episodes are losing favor with commissioners due to declining performance. He pointed out the increasing difficulty in finding formats capable of filling extensive television slots for 30 to 40 episodes.

Strategic Alliances and Unscripted Success

Paprika Studios' growing reputation is evident through recent collaborations, such as their exclusive deal with ITV Studios. This partnership grants Paprika the rights to represent six of ITV Studios' unscripted formats across seven key markets, including Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Lithuania, Romania, Slovakia, and Slovenia, further solidifying their regional influence after becoming independent from Viaplay.

The \"Box\" Office Hit: Norwegian Format Innovation

Aleksander Herresthal, Chief Content Officer at Norway's Seefood TV, spotlighted their successful adventure reality format, \"The Box.\" This innovative show, licensed in territories such as the U.K., France, and Denmark, challenges 12 celebrity contestants who are confined in separate containers and must complete unknown missions once their boxes open. Seefood TV's diverse portfolio also includes \"Celebrity Task Force,\" \"Still Looking,\" \"Couples Therapy,\" and the festive \"Santas in the Barn.\"

Consumer Preferences and Industry Adaptation in Norway

When asked about Norwegian market preferences, Herresthal revealed a strong demand for celebrity competition reality programs, reflecting a broader global trend. He noted the significant impact of video-on-demand (VOD) viewing, which accounts for 70% of consumption in Norway, altering the media landscape. This shift has led to the decline of talk shows and studio-based formats, and a reduction in scripted content as streamers scale back their ambitions in that area. Despite these challenges, Herresthal affirmed Seefood TV's commitment to developing content driven by genuine passion, believing that compelling concepts will always find an audience.