The Rise of Globally-Sourced Drama: ‘Those Little White Lines’ Signals a Modern Era in TV Production
The upcoming series ‘Those Little White Lines,’ spearheaded by ‘Queen of the South’ producer Mark Valadez, isn’t just another 80s music drama. It’s a bellwether for a significant shift in how television is made – a move towards truly international co-productions and a blurring of creative boundaries.
From Autobiographical Novel to International Series
Based on the autobiographical novel by Kaz Piper, a former insider in the rock music scene, ‘Those Little White Lines’ promises a visceral look at the 1980s music industry, exploring themes of power, addiction, and ambition. The story unfolds across dual timelines, charting a woman’s journey through a dangerous world and her eventual liberation. Piper herself emphasized the importance of finally being able to tell her story authentically, after years of being told it was “too wild, too female, too honest to adapt.”
Australia, Taiwan, and the U.S.: A New Production Hub
What sets this project apart is its geographically diverse production structure. Developed by Brisbane’s Red Empire Productions and Organic Media Group (based in Taipei and Los Angeles), the series will be an Australia-U.S. Co-production, with filming taking place in Wollongong, Australia. This reflects a growing trend: production is no longer concentrated in traditional hubs like Hollywood. Executive producer Steve Chicorel highlighted this evolution, stating that Australia and Asia are becoming integral parts of a “global creative engine.”
The Appeal of Character-Driven Crime Drama
Valadez’s involvement signals a focus on character-first storytelling. He noted that the series is driven by “a protagonist who survives by learning the rules faster than the people trying to control her.” This approach aligns with the enduring popularity of crime dramas, which consistently draw audiences with compelling characters and high-stakes narratives. The 1980s setting adds another layer of appeal, tapping into nostalgia for a decade known for its excess and iconic music.
Organic Media Group and Red Empire: Bridging East and West
Organic Media Group, founded by Kelly Mi Li and Steve Chicorel, specifically focuses on projects that connect Asian and Western markets. Red Empire Productions, led by Amie Casey, prioritizes internationally-oriented premium drama. Their collaboration on ‘Those Little White Lines’ exemplifies a strategic approach to reaching wider audiences and fostering cross-cultural creative exchange.
The Future of Global TV Production
‘Those Little White Lines’ isn’t an isolated case. Several factors are driving this trend towards international co-productions:
- Financial Incentives: Many countries offer tax breaks and other financial incentives to attract film and television production.
- Access to New Markets: Co-productions allow producers to tap into new audiences and distribution channels.
- Diverse Storytelling: International collaborations bring fresh perspectives and unique stories to the screen.
- Talent Pools: Access to a wider range of skilled crew and actors.
Pro Tip:
When considering international co-productions, thorough due diligence is crucial. Understanding local regulations, cultural nuances, and logistical challenges is essential for a successful project.
FAQ
Q: What is a co-production in television?
A: A co-production involves collaboration between production companies from different countries, sharing resources and creative control.
Q: Why are more TV series being filmed outside of the US?
A: Financial incentives, access to new markets, and a desire for diverse storytelling are key drivers.
Q: What role does Organic Media Group play in ‘Those Little White Lines’?
A: Organic Media Group is handling U.S. Production and Taiwan casting, and focuses on projects bridging Asian and Western markets.
Q: What is the significance of the 1980s setting for this series?
A: The 1980s provides a backdrop of excess and iconic music, adding to the drama and appeal of the story.
Did you know? The global film and TV production market is projected to reach significant growth in the coming years, driven by the increasing demand for content and the rise of streaming services.
Want to learn more about the evolving landscape of television production? Explore our other articles on international co-productions and the future of streaming.
Share your thoughts! What are your favorite internationally-produced TV series? Let us know in the comments below.
