Australian streaming service BINGE has greenlit its next local original drama, Mix Tape.
The commission marks an international co-production venture that involves the Foxtel Group, celebrated Aussie production house Aquarius Films, and Subotica, one of Ireland’s top production firms. Financial backing comes from both Screen Australia and Screen Ireland, underscoring the project’s international appeal.
The limited series, consisting of four episodes, is an adaptation of the well-received novel by Jane Sanderson. “Mix Tape” navigates the emotional terrain of a youthful romance between Daniel and Alison, which begins in 1989 in Sheffield, England. The narrative threads through to their adult lives where they’re living continents apart.
A pivotal moment occurs when Daniel and Alison rekindle their relationship through a song from their shared history. The series delves into their lingering questions about whether their love is the destiny they’ve been waiting for.
Alison Hurbert-Burns, who oversees Commissioning, Content at BINGE, said the aim is to offer stories that are immersive yet challenging.
“We’re searching for stories that take our audience into a world they can lose themselves in but also be challenged by, and Mix Tape is a nostalgic, music filled love story that will jump off the screen and make you say, what if?
“A co-production allows us to tell this Australian and international story at a scale that will capture the audience’s imagination and reinforces our commitment to creating premium, must-watch original stories.”
The series is not just a love story but also an exploration of international cultures, as per Aquarius Films’ producers Angie Fielder and Polly Staniford, alongside Subotica’s Aoife O’Sullivan and Tristan Orpen Lynch. They emphasise that the tale is a universal one, replete with a soundtrack that’s bound to evoke nostalgia.
Grainne Brunsdon, the Head of Content at Screen Australia, praised the series for hitting the emotional beats. She remarked,
“It’s a harmonious blend of nostalgia, romance, and the indomitable influence of music.”
From the Irish side, Andrew Byrne, the Head of Television at Screen Ireland, lauded the project as a unique Irish-Australian narrative penned by respected Irish writer Jo Spain. Screen Ireland is keen on funding projects that resonate globally, he noted.
Lucy Gaffy, an Australian Director with a portfolio including “Totally, Completely Fine” and “Amazing Grace,” will be steering the series. Jo Spain, known for her work on “Taken Down” and “Sanditon,” has penned the script.
The team of producers includes Angie Fielder and Polly Staniford for Aquarius Films, and Aoife O’Sullivan and Tristan Orpen Lynch for Subotica. The series has received a significant investment from the Foxtel Group, along with financial contributions from Screen Australia and Screen Ireland. International sales are to be handled by Eccho Rights.
