A FILM about Scottish bands Aztec Camera and Orange Juice and their 1980s independent record label is among the likely first fruits of a new relationship between Glasgow-based production company Freedom and BBC Studios.
Freedom Scripted Entertainment was reported yesterday to be developing a film based on Simon Goddard’s book Simply Thrilled about Postcard Records, the Scottish label that represented local bands including Orange Juice, Aztec Camera, Josef K and the Go-Betweens.
Both Aztec Camera and Orange Juice recently featured in the well-received BBC series Rip It Up about the Scottish pop music industry.
The partnership deal between BBC Studios and Freedom was revealed on the first day of the Edinburgh Television Festival.
Freedom was founded earlier this year by former BBC Drama, World Productions and STV development executive Mike Ellen.
The first Freedom development with a UK broadcaster is a four-part drama based on homelessness and one woman’s attempt to personally intervene. It will be written by Skins and Lucky Man writer Ben Schiffer.
Nick Betts, managing director of Scripted at BBC Studios Production, said: “We are delighted to be announcing this exclusive partnership with Freedom and look forward to working with Mike on his incredibly exciting programme slate.
“This partnership strengthens our ties with the Scottish creative community and we hope to be able to work with Freedom to develop and produce outstanding content for local and global audiences.”
Mark Ellen stated: “We’re hoping to create something really special at Freedom, diverse drama and comedy with an inquisitive Scottish take, aspiring to entertain home and international audiences alike.
“The partnership with BBC Studios is a massive boost and
will help us compete in London
and other territories, as well as giving us access to amazing experience and expertise.”
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