A new Faroese series, “Reyna,” has made a significant mark by being one of only eight projects selected from over 90 nominations worldwide. Crafted by the talented Torfinnur Jákupsson, this series is now set to feature prominently at the upcoming Drama Series Pitch during the prestigious Content London conference this December.
Content London stands as one of the largest gatherings in the global entertainment sector, and the Drama Series Pitch offers a unique platform for chosen fiction projects to connect with international investors and collaborators.
“The recognition of a Faroese series among such a competitive pool truly underscores the growing visibility and competitiveness of the Faroese film industry on the international stage,” remarked Jákupsson from GRÓ Studios in the Faroe Islands. “It’s a testament to our ability to thrive in a rapidly evolving market.”
Prize potential: 300,000 ISK
Scheduled for presentation on December 2, “Reyna” will be introduced to a diverse audience of industry representatives, including channels, streaming platforms, sales agents, and producers. An international jury will select one project to receive £30,000 to further market their work.
The series draws inspiration from a trilogy by British author Chris Ould while weaving elements from Faroese genealogies and contemporary research into its narrative. “The core of the story revolves around the Serbo-Croatian question,” Jákupsson explained. “It blends British and Nordic crime traditions, all while encapsulating the unique Faroese identity that gives the story its distinct voice and atmosphere.”
A family crisis unfolds as a criminal case
At its heart, “Reyna” chronicles the journey of British detective Jan Reyna. After a brutal attack on his father, Reyna returns to the Faroe Islands—the homeland his mother fled when he was just three years old. What begins as a familial crisis soon spirals into a personal quest for the truth hidden within his family’s past, culminating in a shocking revelation that Reyna himself is intricately entwined in the unfolding secret.
The significance of this selection
“Being among the finalists for the Drama Series Pitch at Content London is an extraordinary opportunity on the global stage, akin to our experience with TROM at Berlinale a few years back,” Jákupsson noted. “It allows us to showcase ‘Reyna’ to major networks, streaming services, sales agents, and investors—key players in the future of international television drama. This selection enhances our network and improves our prospects for pre-sale, marking a pivotal step toward securing financing and production.”
What to expect at Content London
“Content London serves as a crucial cultural marketplace for the industry. This year, we’ll hear from the team behind the groundbreaking series ‘Adolescence’ featuring Stephen Graham, who will share invaluable insights. We have presentations lined up and a multitude of meetings planned—all under one roof. This setup streamlines the process of establishing face-to-face connections with representatives across the industry, paving the way for agreements that typically take much longer to solidify. It’s a fertile ground for forging new collaborations and exploring financing opportunities.”
When can we expect filming for “Reyna”?
“We are already in discussions with various entities. Our goal is to secure primary financing and key partners in the coming year. We have received our first pre-sale offer, which reflects strong interest in the series. It’s essential to ensure that “Reyna” is produced with the right creative and financial vision—not just for this project, but also for the broader Faroese film landscape and future cultural initiatives.”
Listen to an interview with Torfinnur Jákupsson, conducted by Sveinur Tróndarson for the radio news:
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