Small Town Scandal completes production

BBC Studios confirmed further cast of its upcoming eight-part Sky New Zealand Originals comedy series Small Town Scandal. Set to premiere in 2026, Small Town Scandal follows Toby (Sainsbury), a disgraced journalist turned podcast host, who returns to his rural hometown to investigate the bizarre death of his millionaire uncle – killed, suspiciously, by an automatic lawnmower. Joining Sainsbury is beloved British screen legend Felicity Kendal (The Good Life, Rosemary and Thyme), and acclaimed Kiwi comedian Rose Matafeo (Starstruck). Previously announced cast includes Emmy award-winning actress Morgana O’Reilly (The White Lotus, Playing Gracie Darling), and Alexander England (Offspring, How to Please a Woman), a five-time Logie Award nominee.

Badjelly sells to ITV, France TV, RTS and ViuTVsix

Fumes supported Auckland animation studio Mukpuddy with the financing of 13 x half hour family cartoon Badjelly based on Spike Milligan’s iconic story. The series is a co-production with Canada’s Sphere Animation and UK’s Cantilever Media.  The series boasts a fantastic cast including Miriam Margolyes OBE, Rhys Darby, Rose Matafeo, Roisin Conaty, Cohen Holloway, Mandip Gill, Joe Wilkinson , Katherine Parkinson, Kiell Smith-Bynoe and Julian Barratt. Family Channel and TVNZ are the commissioning broadcasters with Wildbrain distributing.

Jojo Rabbit wins at Academy Awards

Jojo Rabbit written and directed by Taika Waititi, and produced by Carthew Neal, is a critically acclaimed satirical comedy-drama set during World War II. The film received widespread recognition for its bold storytelling, humour, and emotional depth. It won the Academy Award for Best Adapted Screenplay and earned five additional Oscar nominations, including Best Picture. Jojo Rabbit also won a BAFTA for Best Adapted Screenplay and received a Grammy  for its soundtrack. Taika Waititi’s portrayal of an imaginary Adolf Hitler was widely praised, and the performances of Roman Griffin Davis and Scarlett Johansson were lauded by critics and audiences alike.