Scripted

All3Media International acquires global distribution rights to Dirty Business (3x60’), the factual drama from Halcyon Heart Films, and closes a first wave of international deals shortly after boarding the project.
The BAFTA-winning team’s latest production follows a decade-long investigation into a nationwide sewage scandal across England. The series premiered earlier this year on Channel 4 in the UK, generating strong critical response, public debate and high engagement across social platforms. Written and directed by BAFTA winner Joseph Bullman, Dirty Business explores the impact of water contamination through the stories of whistleblowers and affected communities. The series examines alleged malpractice by England’s water companies, including claims of large-scale sewage dumping and the financial structures behind the sector.

International demand has been swift, with NPO (Netherlands), ABC (Australia) and Rialto Channel (New Zealand) among the first broadcasters to license the series. Additional deals are expected to follow, while several festivals have also expressed interest.

Maartje Horchner, EVP Content at All3Media International, said: “We are proud to bring Halcyon Heart Films’ exceptional, fearlessly told true-life drama to our international partners. This is not only a brilliantly crafted series, but a vital exposé uncovering one of England’s most significant corporate scandals. It has already struck a chord with buyers across Europe and Australia, and its powerful themes resonate globally, with parallels that reach from America to Italy, and from India to France.”
Joseph Bullman added: “None of us have experienced a reaction like this. Waves of media coverage, questions in Parliament, a meeting between a mother and the Government Minister, after her child died after getting into sewage-polluted water; and a petition demanding the removal of the head regulator’s knighthood. Dirty Business is being taught in ethics classes in schools and colleges; and a second petition, demanding a return to public ownership, is gaining a thousand signatures an hour. The surge of public anger is intense and we know Dirty Business will strike a chord in all those countries facing their own corporate crime-waves. We’re thrilled that All3Media International has decided to embrace our show.”