Streamers Seek Global Appeal Amidst Specific Storytelling
This article first appeared in Buffering, Vulture’s streaming industry newsletter. Subscribe at vulture.com/buffering.
The Success Story of Wolf Hall
Wolf Hall premiered in 2015, quickly becoming one of the year’s major artistic accomplishments. Garnering impressive ratings in both Britain and America, the BBC-PBS adaptation of Hilary Mantel’s Booker Prize-winning novels was lauded for its portrayal of Thomas Cromwell and Henry VIII’s political intrigue. The series received accolades including a Peabody Award, Golden Globe, and multiple Emmy nominations.
Producer Colin Callender’s Journey
Colin Callender, the executive producer of Wolf Hall, recalls his own early success at the 1983 Emmy Awards, when his adaptation of The Life and Adventures of Nicholas Nickleby unexpectedly won against popular miniseries. This pivotal moment was a harbinger of his trajectory in the industry, focusing on prestigious projects often overlooked by mainstream platforms.
Challenges of the Modern Landscape
In recent years, Callender has observed a distinct shift in the production landscape, particularly with the escalating costs of high-quality British dramas. While working on The Mirror and the Light, the follow-up to Wolf Hall, he noted that production costs had doubled compared to the initial series. Influences such as COVID-19 and cast availability complicated scheduling, especially as they filmed on location in heritage sites.
Maintaining the Essence of British Drama
Callender emphasizes the importance of creating programming aimed primarily at British audiences, rather than catering exclusively to global markets. He suggests that this specificity is crucial in maintaining the integrity of British storytelling, which has historically found success in the U.S. through its unique perspectives and grounded narratives.
The Future of British Television
Looking ahead, Callender remains committed to producing compelling British drama despite the challenges presented by streaming giants. He advocates for a balanced media landscape that ensures public service broadcasters like the BBC can effectively support niche programming, enabling stories essential to British culture and identity to thrive.
Continued Evolution in Production
With Playground Productions, Callender seeks to diversify storytelling through contemporary narratives while preserving the essence of what made projects like Wolf Hall resonate deeply with audiences. The company is set to explore new material that reflects broader themes while remaining connected to its British roots, adapting classic stories with fresh perspectives.
