Iceland’s producer Glass River (“Black Sands”, “When We Live”) has signed a major international contract with Media One’s rights to the expected crime thriller series “Elma”. Based on Eva Bjorgegisduttil’s bestselling book series.
In addition to Media One’s rights with non-Icelandic and Finland rights, the partner round will announce co-producer Luname, Belgium, MTV Finland, private equity investors and other parties at a later stage.
“Elma is a story of Icelandic crime and is ready to take on the world! ” said Omarsson, who confirmed Glassriver has selected rights to five books in the “Elma” series. “We are proud to partner with the Media One team. Their deep understanding of the European market and proven success in high-end drama make them an ideal partner to help defend this story beyond Iceland.”
Mediawan’s rights CEO Valérie Vleeschhouwer added: This partnership with Glassriver reflects our commitment to bringing captivating and top-notch shows in Europe to global audiences. ”
The first season, “The Creak on the Stairs,” based on the first book of “Elma” Serie, is scheduled to roll from October 7th in Iceland.
When first published in Iceland in 2018, Eva Bjorgegisdottir was hailed as one of the most talented non-EW crime writers along the lines of Arnardur Indrizason, Yrsa Sigurðardóttir, Ragnar Jónasson, or Lilja Sigurdottir, Yrsa Sigurðardóttir. “The Creak on the Stairs” reached the top of the Icelandic book chart, won the CWA (Crime Writers Association) debut Dagger-Blackbird award, and since then opened new markets for Egisdóttir in more than 20 territories, including France and the UK.
With a serialized television adaptation from headwriter Karen Björg EyfjörðÞ orsteins dóttir (“Ordinary People”), Elisa Bethall, and the talented urðuregil sdóttir (Glassriver’s uppering “Manifesto), the story pays tribute to the town of town Elma, who paid tribute to the painting town.
“When a woman’s body was found lying at the foot of a lighthouse, a terrible secret could often resurface from the past. In this small Icelandic town, in its oppressive atmosphere, Elma could be salvation from her colleague Saevar,” reads Logline.
Slates from Glass River’s current series, which incorporates the climate disaster “Avalanches,” starring Erin Hall, are one of Iceland’s most active scripted content providers. “Hot Stuff” is a comedy drama written by Steinþórson and Saga Garðarsdóttir. “Masquerade” is co-produced with the recent optional “Conrad” book series from crime lord Arnaldur Indolizon and the art of “Retirement” Nicholas Weinstock and Cop Production Mark Rober.
