When it comes to production partners , screenwriters can sometimes leap at the first opportunity without considering whether they are working with the right people. In truth, screenwriters should consider who they work with just as much as producers should consider which screenwriters they collaborate with. Screenwriters must consider whether their production partner is on their wavelength, wants the same outcome, and can challenge them to write the best final product possible. If you don’t see eye to eye, or have different ambitions for your work, it may be time to look elsewhere.
The UK television industry is full of interesting production companies and producers. As someone with a keen interest in dark comedies, one production company that leaps out at me is Two Brothers Pictures. Founded by brothers Harry and Jack Williams, the company has produced a wide array of challenging drama and comedy, including the multi-award winning Fleabag, Back to Life, and The Missing. While their output tends to skew towards drama, I would approach them with dark comedy projects, as I feel we share comedic sensibilities and interest in characters.
For broader comedic work, I would consider approaching Hat Trick Productions. As well as currently producing Derry Girls, Hat Trick Productions have previously produced many popular UK sitcoms and comedy series, including Father Ted, and Outnumbered. However, Hat Trick Productions seem to be focusing more on panel shows and game shows, only producing two sitcoms currently. Whether this means there is a gap in the market for a new sitcom, or the company is more interested in factual-based programming now, I would still consider them when pitching a comedy series.
Looking at the world of feature films, Big Talk Productions have produced multiple dark comedy and horror films over the years, including works by Edgar Wright and Ben Wheatley. Furthermore, they have produced broader comedy films like Grimsby, and TV shows like Friday Night Dinner and Raised by Wolves. While Big Talk seem interested in bigger budget projects now, like Wheatley’s Rebecca and Wright’s Baby Driver, I believe they are at the forefront of British comedy and horror films, and would consider approaching them with feature film or TV scripts.
–Harry Ford
Harry Ford - Comedian 