Zattoo's Strategic Leap with Paul Fournier
Future Development and Project Management
In his new position, Paul Fournier will be dedicated to the future development and implementation of Zattoo's strategic goals. He will closely collaborate with the management team to identify market opportunities and develop strategic initiatives. This includes managing various projects, such as the IT team comprising the IT infrastructure and administration divisions. By focusing on these aspects, Zattoo aims to stay at the forefront of the streaming market.For instance, Fournier's experience in strategic consulting and project management in telecommunications and media companies will be crucial. His previous role as Head of Digital & Business Development at CH Media gave him insights into digital product management. Before that, at RTL Group for several years as VP Strategy, he led strategic initiatives to realign the core business and expand digital activities in Europe and the US. This diverse background allows him to bring a unique perspective to Zattoo's strategic endeavors.Reporting to the CEO and Driving Success
As part of the management team, Fournier will report directly to the CEO, Roger Elsener. This direct line of communication ensures seamless coordination and alignment of strategies. Elsener expressed his satisfaction in having Paul join Zattoo, stating that his expertise in the strategic further development of digital products for TV and streaming companies will help tap into new market potential.Fournier himself commented, "I am excited to be part of Zattoo's future. As a pioneer in TV streaming, it has achieved a significant position in the market. With the right strategy and teamwork, we can overcome the challenges in the streaming market and continue to lead in innovation, ensuring sustainable growth."This appointment is seen as a crucial step for Zattoo's long-term success. With Paul Fournier's leadership and expertise, the company is well-positioned to navigate the evolving streaming landscape and achieve its goals.Uniting the World of Television with International Emmy Prestige
Drama Series
The Newsreader – Season 2 from Australia showcased the essence of 1980s-set drama. It presented a unique narrative that captivated audiences. The Night Manager from India, an adaptation of the 2016 BBC show, brought a new perspective to the genre. Iosi, El Espia Arrepentido – Season 2 from Argentina added a touch of espionage thrill to the competition. However, it was Les Gouttes de Dieu [Drops of God] from France that emerged as the winner, proving its dominance in the drama category.
These drama series offered different storylines, settings, and character developments. They explored various themes and emotions, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats.
Comedy
División Palermo from Argentina focused on a group of people from social minorities forming a neighbourhood protection guard. It brought a fresh and humorous take on community life. Daily Dose of Sunshine from South Korea added a dose of sunshine to the comedy scene with its unique characters and situations. Deadloch from Australia also had its charm, presenting a different comedic style. HPI – Season 3 from France completed the comedy lineup. But it was División Palermo that won the hearts of the audience and took the prize.
Each comedy series had its own comedic timing and storylines, making them stand out in their own ways.
TV Movie / Mini-Series
Liebes Kind [Dear Child] from Germany was a standout in the TV movie/miniseries category. It told a compelling story that kept viewers engaged. Anderson Spider Silva from Brazil and Deaf Voice: A Sign-Language Interpreter in Court from Japan also had their moments. The Sixth Commandment from the United Kingdom added another layer to the competition. But Liebes Kind emerged as the winner, leaving a lasting impression.
These mini-series explored different themes and story arcs, showcasing the versatility of the genre.
Best Performance by an Actor
Timothy Spall in The Sixth Commandment from the United Kingdom delivered a powerful performance. His portrayal of the character was highly praised. Julio Andrade in Betinho: No Fio da Navalha [Living on a Razor’s Edge] from Brazil showed his acting prowess. Haluk Bilginer in Sahsiyet – Season 2 from Türkiye also gave a remarkable performance. Laurent Lafitte in Tapie from France added to the competition. But it was Timothy Spall who walked away with the award, solidifying his status as a leading actor.
Each actor brought their unique style and interpretation to their roles, making the category highly competitive.
Best Performance by an Actress
Aokbab-Chutimon Chuengcharoensukying in Hunger from Thailand was a force to be reckoned with. Her performance was outstanding and won her the award. Adriana Barraza in El Último Vagón from Mexico brought a certain depth to her character. Sara Giraudeau in Tout va bien [Everything is Fine] from France also shined. Jessica Hynes in There She Goes from the United Kingdom added another dimension to the category. But Aokbab-Chutimon Chuengcharoensukying's performance was truly remarkable.
These actresses demonstrated their talent and ability to bring characters to life.
Documentary
Otto Baxter: Not a F**ing Horror Story from the United Kingdom was a unique documentary that broke the mold. L’affaire Bettencourt : Scandale chez la femme la plus riche du monde [The Billionaire, the Butler and the Boyfriend] from France explored a different side of the story. The Exiles from Singapore and Transo from Brazil also had their stories to tell. But Otto Baxter emerged as the winner, leaving a mark with its unconventional approach.
Documentaries from around the world covered a wide range of topics and presented different perspectives.
Sports Documentary
Brawn: The Impossible Formula 1 Story from the United Kingdom took viewers on a thrilling journey through the world of Formula 1. Tan Cercas de la Nubes from Mexico and Tour de France from France also had their sports documentaries to offer. WHO I AM Paralympic from Japan added a different flavor to the category. But Brawn was the clear winner, showcasing the excitement and challenges of the sport.
Sports documentaries captured the essence of various sports and the athletes' stories.
Non-Scripted Entertainment
Restaurant Misverstand [The Restaurant That Makes Mistakes] from Belgium brought a new concept to non-scripted entertainment. The Summit from Australia and Die Brug [The Bridge South Africa] from South Africa also had their unique offerings. Me Caigo De Risa [Anything Goes] from Mexico completed the lineup. But Restaurant Misverstand won the hearts of the viewers.
These non-scripted shows offered a variety of experiences and entertainment.
Arts Programming
Pianoforte from Poland showcased the beauty of piano music. Robbie Williams from the United Kingdom brought his musical talent to the stage. Virgilio from Argentina added a touch of artistry. Who I Am Life from Japan also had its artistic charm. But Pianoforte emerged as the winner, highlighting the power of music and the arts.
Arts programming from different countries presented a diverse range of artistic expressions.
Short-Form Series
Punt de no Retorn [Point of no Return] from Spain was a standout in the short-form series category. Kweens of the Queer Underground from Australia and La Vida de Nosotras [Our Lives] from Chile also had their moments. Kenshiro ni Yoroshiku [Say Hello to Kenshiro] from Japan completed the lineup. But Punt de no Retorn won the award, proving the power of short-form storytelling.
Short-form series offered quick and engaging stories that left a lasting impact.
Telenovela
La Promesa [The Vow] from Spain was a captivating telenovela that kept viewers hooked. Rigo from Colombia and Safir from Türkiye also had their charm. Salón de té La Moderna from Spain added another telenovela to the mix. But La Promesa emerged as the winner, showing the popularity and allure of telenovelas.
Telenovelas from different countries entertained audiences with their drama and romance.
Kids: Animation
Tabby McTat from the United Kingdom was a favorite among kids. Acorda, Carlo! [Wake up, Carlo!] from Brazil brought a fun and colorful animation. Mystery Lane from France added to the kids' animation scene. Sharkdog – Season 3 from Singapore also had its appeal. But Tabby McTat won the award, becoming a hit with young viewers.
Kids' animations offered a world of imagination and fun.
Kids: Factual
La Vida Secreta de tu Mente [The secret life of your mind] from Mexico explored the inner world of kids. My Life: Eva’s Having a Ball from the United Kingdom and The Takalani Sesame Big Feelings Special from South Africa also had their educational value. De Mensenbieb [Living Library] from the Netherlands added another dimension. But La Vida Secreta de tu Mente was the winner, teaching kids in an engaging way.
Kids' factual shows provided valuable learning experiences.
Kids: Live-Action
En af Drengene [One of the Boys] from Denmark was a hit with kids. Escola De Quebrada [School of Funk] from Brazil brought a different energy. Gong! My spectRacular Life from Germany also had its charm. Dodger from the United Kingdom completed the kids' live-action lineup. But En af Drengene won the award, becoming a favorite among young viewers.
Kids' live-action shows entertained and inspired.
Uniting for a Responsible Film and Television Industry
Formation of FAIR
The coming together of Canadian film and television unions to form FAIR is a landmark event. It shows their collective determination to bring about positive change in the industry. These unions, with their diverse memberships, are working together to address important issues such as industry policy and the use of taxpayer dollars. By uniting, they have a stronger voice and can have a greater impact on shaping the future of the film and television sector.Each union brings its unique perspective and expertise to the table. ACTRA, for example, represents actors and has a crucial role in ensuring fair treatment and working conditions. ARRQ focuses on Quebec's film and television industry, while DGC represents directors. Together, they form a powerful alliance that can advocate for the interests of all stakeholders in the industry.
Lobbying for Policy Adoption
The lobbying efforts of FAIR to get Telefilm Canada to adopt the same policy as the Canada Media Fund are of great significance. This policy requires producers to maintain good standing with industry unions and guilds to qualify for funding. It addresses the issue of production companies not signing collective agreements, which can lead to unfair practices and disputes.The statistics presented by FAIR highlight the extent of the problem. A significant number of productions, especially those with lower budgets, are not signing with the full range of applicable unions and guilds. This not only affects the rights and interests of workers but also has implications for the overall quality and sustainability of the industry. By advocating for this policy, FAIR is aiming to create a more equitable and stable environment for film and television production in Canada.
Telefilm's Position and Discussions
Telefilm Canada's position on this issue is complex. While they are committed to supporting a healthy ecosystem, they are still in discussions with the unions and guilds. This indicates that finding a sustainable solution requires careful negotiation and collaboration.The agency's efforts to explore ways to hold production companies accountable in the absence of a clear policy show their recognition of the importance of the issue. However, the ongoing discussions also highlight the need for a comprehensive and agreed-upon approach. It is essential that all parties work together to find solutions that benefit the industry as a whole.
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