Britannia World Premier Screening Cannes 2017

Britannia was Sky’s most ambitious original production to date. Cinematic and bold, it had an all-star cast, led by David Morrissey and Nikolaj Lie Kaas, with leading creatives at the helm, including award-winning writers Jez and Tom Butterworth and executive producers Sam Mendes and James Richardson. Such stellar names were expected to pique interest with international buyers in Cannes, but it was vital that the launch authentically captured not just the scale of the series, which follows the 43AD Roman invasion of an ancient Britain ruled by Druids and warrior queens, but also its unique and somewhat alternative feel. Britannia was - and remains - unlike any other historical or costume drama on TV. Mandy Lawn arranged for and managed all aspects of the World Premiere Screening in The Palais des Festivals, working closely with Reed Midem. Key international buyers were invited to watch the show and then partake in a Q&A session with the show’s stars, David Morrissey, Nikolaj Lie Kaas and Eleanor Worthington-Cox, who she had arranged to be in Cannes. To reinforce Sky’s commitment to this series and to celebrate and promote its international launch, Mandy planned a major ‘not-to-be-missed’ party for 380 of Sky Vision’s specially invited guests. The challenges were numerous and ranged from tight set-up times to limited availability of assets due to the series still being in production and from health and safety issues to insurance considerations for such large numbers at a beachside venue. Working closely with the producers on the look and feel for the event, Mandy translated an early viewing of the psychedelic opening title sequence of Britannia into a stunning kaleidoscopic light display, both inside and outside of the venue, that clearly set the tone for the evening. Donovan, who’s 60s hit “Hurdy Gurdy Man’ was to be used for the opening titles, was also invited to Cannes to act as a guest DJ at the party. Red velvet drapes and dramatic flaming torches added discreet notes of Roman influence, while simultaneously promoting an opulent and enticing party vibe. A structure requiring special planning permission was built on the beach to house a giant LED screen showing clips from the show and talent were able to comfortably mingle with key buyers in a relaxed VIP space. VIP wristbands were distributed to guests in advance to ensure smooth access to the venue, and discreet security was hired to keep a check on numbers and ensure that, despite a large crowd of potential gatecrashers drawn by the buzz of the event and the dramatic external lights, only invited guests got access. Delivered within budget and surpassing expectations, the Britannia launch party was unquestionably the most talked-about event of MIPCOM 2017 and instrumental to kick-starting the series’ huge international success. Prior to its completion and launch on Sky Atlantic, it had already sold to more than 100 territories, and season two was quickly commissioned.