PBS Distribution has acquired U.S. Rights to two British dramas, “Trespasses” and “I Fought the Law,” from All3Media International, bolstering its slate of internationally-sourced programming.
“Trespasses,” a four-part series commissioned by Channel 4, stars Lola Petticrew, Tom Cullen, and Gillian Anderson. The drama, set in 1975 Belfast during the Troubles, centers on Cushla, a young woman working in her family’s pub, and her forbidden relationship with Michael, a married Protestant barrister who defends IRA suspects. Anderson portrays Gina, Cushla’s mother, described as a “glorious wreck.”
The series is adapted from Louise Kennedy’s debut novel, which was shortlisted for the Women’s Prize for Fiction. Ailbhe Keogan penned the screenplay, marking her first lead writing credit. BAFTA award-winner Dawn Shadforth directed the production, which comes from Wildgaze Films, the company behind “Brooklyn” and “An Education.”
“I Fought the Law” features BAFTA winner Sheridan Smith as Ann Ming, a mother who challenged a centuries-aged law following the murder of her daughter. The drama is based on Ming’s book, “For the Love of Julie,” and recounts her fight for justice. Jamie Crichton wrote the script, and Erik Richter Strand directed.
Hera Pictures, the production company responsible for “Hamnet” and “What It Feels Like for a Girl,” created the series for ITV in the U.K. All3Media International secured numerous international deals for the drama prior to its U.K. Debut, including acquisitions in Europe, Asia, and Australia.
Both “Trespasses” and “I Fought the Law” have garnered critical acclaim and awards attention, with “Trespasses” receiving four nominations at the Irish Film and Television Awards. Both series are slated for release in the U.S. This year, according to Jennifer Askin, executive VP Americas at All3Media International, who stated that PBS is “the perfect destination” for the dramas.