ZDF Studios and Factual Fiction to develop a contemporary twist on Oscar Wilde’s classic 'The Picture of Dorian Gray'
Mainz, February, 20th, 2023
ZDF Studios has partnered with the UK’s Factual Fiction on #DorianGray (12 x 30’), a contemporary reimagining of Oscar Wilde’s iconic Gothic novel The Picture of Dorian Gray.
#DorianGray is a suspenseful ride through the life of a teenager as they construct their identity. With every tweet, #instagram & Tik Tok video, Dorian - whilst navigating complex issues of sex, gender, mental health and consent - produces a version of who they wish they were, rather than who they are.
First published in the late 1800s, Oscar Wilde’s infamous story about youth and vanity caused an outcry of controversy and criticism. It’s central premise, that beauty is corrupted by age and moral dogma, frames Dorian’s decision to let a picture record their sins.
Yi Qiao, Director Drama for ZDF Studios, said: “After co-developing the delightful mystery series The Puzzle Lady, it’s an absolute pleasure to be partnering with Factual Fiction again. Taking the theme of this classic book and giving it a modern twist is ingenious and -especially in the age of social media - more current than ever before. I cannot wait to bring this version of Dorian Gray to life.
Tom Dalton, Co-Founder Factual Fiction, added: “If ever there was a novel written for our time it is The Picture of Dorian Gray. Morally agnostic, self-obsessed, terrified of rejection and yet deeply compelling. Exploring this world with brilliant young writer Maiya John, alongside the fantastic creative support of Yi Qiao and ZDF Studios is an immense pleasure.”
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About ZDF Studios
ZDF Studios was originally founded in 1993 as ‘ZDF Enterprises’, a private subsidiary of ZDF, one of the largest and most renowned television broadcasters in Europe. The company was renamed ‘ZDF Studios’ on 1 April 2022. Based in Mainz, the business is responsible for distributing programmes worldwide, implementing international co-productions, acquiring licences and merchandising key brands under its own name, for ZDF and for third parties. Successfully established as an independent market player in Germany and globally, it operates as part of a strong network of 30 direct and indirect subsidiaries and affiliates. ZDF Studios has the largest German-language programme stock in the world, plus a constantly growing catalogue of international productions consisting of series and mini-series, television films, documentaries and children’s programmes. By continually evolving, the ZDF Studios group has been able to open up numerous business areas in the television and media sector. As a result, ZDF Studios now provides a comprehensive full-service offer and covers every stage in the creation and exploitation chain of successful TV productions in all genres, from developing content to producing, licensing, marketing, merchandising, online rights and much more.
Contact ZDF Studios
Christine Denilauler (VP Marketing and Corporate Communications), ZDF Studios GmbH, Erich-Dombrowski-Str. 1, 55127 Mainz/Germany, Tel.: +49 6131-9911130, Email: christine.denilauler@zdf-studios.com, www.zdf-studios.com
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About Factual Fiction
Launched in 2020, Factual Fiction is backed by Great Point Media and headed up by founders Emily and Tom Dalton along with co-founders Patrick Irwin and award-winning writer/director Chamoun Issa. With a passion for storytelling across scripted and factual, the North Yorkshire based independent production company is currently in development and production for ZDF Studios, Warner Bros, Fremantle and Amazon Studios.
Contact Factual Fiction
info@factualfiction.co.uk