MUMBAI: Fox International Channels (FIC) has inked a deal with Keshet International (KI) for the exclusive first window rights to the drama False Flag (8 x 45’).

This follows from the existing format rights deal the two groups have on False Flag, whose US-adaptation is in development at FIC’s Fox International Studios in partnership with Keshet International. The acquisition of the Hebrew language series firms up FIC’s stake in the franchise and positions the group as exclusive broadcaster across its 127 country strong footprint.

The sale of the original Hebrew language series is unprecedented both in the respect of it being the first ever Israeli series to be acquired by FIC and the company’s first non-English series to be acquired on a global scale. 

The gripping espionage thriller, which sees five ordinary citizens implicated in a high profile kidnapping, has been much talked about internationally following its world premiere as part of a special selection at Berlinale 2015 and its award of the Grand Prize at Series Mania 2015 (The Public Prize) jointly with HBO’s Olive Kitteridge.

FIC EVP scripted programming & original development Sharon Tal said, “We couldn't be more committed to this exciting TV series. We identified this project at an early stage of development and are thrilled be in partnership with KI and own the rights of both the Israeli version and the US remake. Looking forward to bringing both to the world very soon."

Keshet International managing director - distribution Keren Shahar added, “We’re very proud of False Flag and are delighted it has found a global home on the FIC network. It’s great to see this world-class Israeli drama travelling worldwide.”

The deal for the original language version was negotiated by KI sales director Cynthia Kennedy and FIC EVP global acquisitions Jason Simms.

False Flag was created by Amit Cohen and Maria Feldman, directed by Oded Ruskin and produced by Liat Benasuly and Maria Feldman at Tender Productions for Keshet Broadcasting.