Insurgent signs first-look with Zoo exec

LA-based Insurgent Media has signed a first-look deal with veteran film and TV producer Cathy Konrad, whose series include CBS summer drama Zoo.

They are together developing Cicada 3301, which is a transmedia espionage thriller series based around the true events of a global online codebreaking phenomenon of the same name

The series will ultimately require the audience itself to crack a code, which in reality was posted on January 4, 2012, when a message posted online called for ‘highly intelligent individuals’ to solve a series of puzzles and games. Many have speculated this was a recruiting tool for major clandestine organisations, though the truth remains unknown.

Konrad is known for feature films such as Walk the Line, 310 to Yuma, Kids and Girl, Interrupted, and currently has two series on air, Zoo for CBS and Scream for MTV.

“I have been fortunate in my career to work with partners who share my taste and passion for both genre and character stories,” said Konrad. “While working with the Insurgent team, it has become clear, very quickly, that we share a similar aesthetic and sensibility for storytelling, and that we are in sync with regards to the talent we want to be in business with and support creatively. Insurgent has the ability to develop and finance material, and they have a keen interest in creating content across all media platforms.”

She will executive produce Cicada 3301 with Insurgent’s Ezna Sands and Ashley Richardson.
“Our brand of content is bold, edgy and thought-provoking. We like entertainment that stays with you after the credits roll,” said Insurgent’s Sands. “Cathy shares this philosophy, as evidenced by the many groundbreaking films she’s produced over the years.  Her wealth of experience, impeccable taste and deep relationships will fuel our growing slate of projects.”