The case against Adnan Syed director Amy Berg signs first look deal with Fremantle

The case against Adnan Syed Director Amy Berg is the latest creative to sign a first-look deal with Fremantle.

The deal is the first of its kind for Fremantle’s documentary unit, which is led by Mandy Chang, global head of documentaries.

Under the terms, Berg and her Disarming Films shingle will work closely with Chang to develop an internationally-focused documentary, with the super-indie providing editorial, production and distribution expertise. The first project will be announced soon.

Berg is best known for HBO’s true crime series The case against Adnan Syeda sequel to the smash Series Podcast that will see a special episode this fall. Other projects include HBO/HBO Max’s Phoenix rises and Netflix twice We are: The Brooklyn Saints And dogs, while she was nominated for an Oscar in 2007 Deliver us from evil.

Jennifer Mullin, chief executive of Fremantle Global, called the partnership a “groundbreaking deal” that is “further evidence of Fremantle’s commitment to and ambition in the documentary genre.”

“Amy and her team at Disarming Films share the same passion and ambition to tell compelling and diverse stories from around the world, and we look forward to working closely together,” she added.

Berg praised Fremantle’s offering of “fantastic support, creative freedom and extensive international infrastructure and expertise”.

Since Chang’s appointment from BBC Storyville, Fremantle has continued to move into the premium documentary space, including projects kingdom of dreams And Mrs. America. It was also in the process of buying Doc Indie, acquiring British outfits 72 Films and Wildstar Films, and Israel’s Silvio Productions.

Fremantle has recently signed numerous high profile talent deals including with nothing new in the West Edward Berger, Angelina Jolie, the Larrain brothers and Johan Renck & Michael Parets from Sinestra.