Banijay buys ‘Our Boys’ prodco MoviePlus Productions as Israeli footprint expands

Our Boys

Banijay has taken a 51% stake in Israel’s MoviePlus Productions, the outfit behind HBO drama Our Boys.

The prodco was founded by David Mandil and has been behind dramas including Miguel for Canal+ and Embezzlement for YES, as well as Deus and Jerusalem Brew.

It also produces features such as Footnote, Beaufort, and Natalie Portman’s directorial debut, A Tale of Love And Darkness, as well as Richard Gere and Steve Buscemi-starring Norman.

Mandil will remain CEO of the company, which will operate alongside the scripted division of Valley Of Tears label Endemol Shine Israel, which is led by head of drama, Gal Zaid. Banijay Rights will distribute future shows from MoviePlus.

Mandil said: “Along the years, we [have] had the chance to collaborate with many talented creators, writers and directors, and are looking forward to many more challenging and fascinating projects.”

Marco Bassetti, CEO at Banijay, added: “David is an impressive storymaker, who has honed a business built on creativity, originality and above all, quality. As we continue to build our position as the number one home for content artists, he is a welcome addition, and we look forward to further expanding our premium script-ed offering in the Israeli market via the combined strength of Endemol Shine Israel and MoviePlus Productions.”

Ganor said: “Partnering with the best writers, directors and crews, its titles have become regulars on the global award circuits, and we are proud to be welcoming him, and the team, into our home. Together, we can continue to expand our offerings and solidify Israel’s position as a home for high-quality creativity.”

Banijay has been on a buying spree across Europe for the past six months, last month acquiring Chloe producer Mam Tor Productions and agreeing a deal to buy Australia-based Beyond International.

The France-based firm, which became a public company earlier this year after owner Stéphane Courbit rolled the MasterChef and Big Brother production and distribution outfit into FL Entertainment, also bought Sony Pictures Television Germany in July and Romulus producer Grøenlandia Group in March. It has also added 30 Coins producer Pokeepsie Films to its labels, as well Kindle Entertainment in the UK and Italy’s Movimenti Production.