Film Victoria and Screen Australia have backed December Media and Channel Seven as they announce a new direction for The Blake Mysteries.
The 90-minute telemovie will now skip three years ahead and focus on Jean Beazley (Nadine Garner) who will take on the central role in the drama.
Federal and state government support of the popular and successful Victorian-made series will deliver strong economic benefits to regional Victoria and screen businesses, whilst shoring up employment for
approximately 200 Victorian screen workers.
Minister for Creative Industries, Martin Foley said “The extraordinary success of this project provides enormous economic and cultural value to Victoria – and I am delighted to see that further support of the
series will sustain hundreds of local screen jobs.
Film Victoria CEO Caroline Pitcher said “Our commitment to The Blake Mysteries is an investment in Victorian screen businesses, crew and associated services who rely on this production for employment
and skills development.”
“We support new and diverse storylines and have great confidence that December Media, who mirror our commitment for ensuring safe and supportive workplace environments, will produce a high-quality and
entertaining telemovie.”
Film Victoria recently released its updated Victorian screen industry Code of Conduct. The updated Code reflect a zero tolerance approach to unsafe workplace practices and behaviours including discrimination,
harassment and bullying.
Screen Australia matched Film Victoria’s investment in The Blake Mysteries, in an out-of-rounds special funding commitment.
“Screen Australia is generally only a direct investor in early seasons of television shows, however due to the prospect of the Blake franchise not proceeding, and the resultant sudden job losses, in this instance
we will fund the telemovie as a one off,” said Sally Caplan, Head of Production at Screen Australia.
“It is essential for Screen Australia to support the cast and crew in this unique situation, and there is no doubt audience demand for this Australian story remains. The Blake Mysteries will offer viewers the
chance to see this beloved tale through Jean Beazley’s eyes and we’re proud to support this new direction.”
The Blake Mysteries is a December Media and Gambit Media production for Channel Seven with principal production investment from Screen Australia and Film Victoria.