A new Albert Park-based production company, Deadset Pictures, was founded by screenwriter Dan Bennett, journalist Steve Pennells and producer Craig McMahon.
Aimed at Australian-made film and television content for a global audience, it will span from scripted drama to documentaries, film to reality television, scripted comedy and everything in between.
Dan Bennet (molly, winners and losers, home and away, tripping, the tipster, emerald falls, neighbors) is Head of Scripted with Walkley winner Steve Pennells (Sunday night, Spotlight, Seven news, The West Australian, Foxtel, Australian Media Hall of Fame) as Head of Documentary and News. Former Network 10 presenter and television producer Craig McMahon (McMahon Entertainment Group) is Head of Business Affairs.
With a focus on international co-productions, diversity and inclusiveness, and looking for new voices and fresh talent both in front of and behind the camera, the Deadset team has yet to reveal its development slate.
Dan Bennett, said: “I’ve been very fortunate to have had a long and successful career in network TV, but as the television and film landscapes continue to evolve, it seems like the perfect time to take everything I’ve learned and collaborate with like creatives with a mindset to produce bespoke content that will sit comfortably on platforms around the world.Australia’s amazing pool of writers, crew and artists also provides us with the opportunity to challenge traditional production methodologies, providing the ability to produce more content for less dollars. We can’t wait to reveal what we have in store for us.”
Steve Pennells, said: “Deadset marks a bold leap into the heart of Australian storytelling. It will showcase Australian tales that will resonate globally. We have an exciting slate of dramas, documentaries and reality shows that we can’t wait to unveil in the coming months. After three decades at the forefront of international journalism and long-form storytelling, I’ve never been more excited about what we have planned in this space. Determined to make an impact, we are here to reshape the Australian content landscape for international audiences.”
Craig McMahon added: “Our industry is changing more than ever at a rapid pace. Between the three of us, we’ve made thousands upon thousands of hours of top-notch, award-winning television. With our shared passion and vision, Deadset Pictures promises to bring entertaining and thought-provoking content across all genres to the world.
Schedule announcements and additional staff appointments will follow.
