ORF-Enterprise Launches Portuguese Mystery Drama "Jones" at EFM Series Market

Vienna-based ORF-Enterprise is debuting the Portuguese mystery drama “Jones” at the EFM Series Market in Berlin. This six-part series, produced by Caracol Studios for the Portuguese public broadcaster RTP, is directed by Bruno Gascon and features British actress Amanda Abbington, known for her roles in “Sherlock” and “Mr. Selfridge.” The narrative unfolds at a lavish estate in Sintra, where a family gathering for an engagement celebration turns deadly, leading to a murder investigation filled with suspects. The protagonist, Inspector Oliver Jones, portrayed by José Pimentão, possesses the unique ability to communicate with the deceased, complicating the investigation as he partners with the victim, Júlia, played by Laura Dutra.

Variety Magazine

ORF-Enterprise has commenced international sales for “Jones,” with ongoing negotiations in several key markets. While specific buyers and territories remain confidential, the series is positioned as a premium, Portuguese-origin title that appeals to a global audience. Armin Luttenberger, head of content sales international at ORF-Enterprise, emphasized that “Jones” fills a gap in their drama catalog by offering a high-concept mystery that is both genre-driven and distinctly European, enhancing their portfolio alongside existing successful ORF Original dramas.

Variety Magazine

The series is being marketed as a premium murder mystery with supernatural elements, designed to attract crime buyers while standing out in a competitive landscape. Luttenberger noted that the most receptive buyers are those focused on premium scripted genres, including streamers and ambitious broadcasters, who seek distinctive narratives. The multilingual aspect of “Jones,” presented in both Portuguese and English, is seen as a significant advantage, broadening its appeal and facilitating negotiations with international buyers.

Variety Magazine

Despite the positive outlook, there are challenges associated with multilingualism. While it generally enhances market positioning, it can also create friction in negotiations. ORF-Enterprise aims to tailor deliverables to meet market demands, balancing subtitled and dubbed versions to maintain the series' authenticity without compromising its narrative integrity.

Variety Magazine

“Jones” is set to screen two episodes at the EFM Series Market on February 16, followed by a Q&A session with Gascon and lead actors Abbington and Morais. The series represents a strategic move for ORF-Enterprise to expand its international offerings and cater to the growing demand for high-quality European drama.

Variety Magazine

• “ We expect our entire fiction catalog to benefit equally from this fresh color adding to our international sales offering.” — Armin Luttenberger, Head of Content Sales International, ORF-Enterprise

Variety Magazine

• “The supernatural element isn’t decorative; it’s part of the storytelling mechanism and the hook.” — Armin Luttenberger, Head of Content Sales International, ORF-Enterprise

Variety Magazine

• “Multilingualism is mostly a ceiling-raiser: it expands positioning options and widens the buyer pool.” — Armin Luttenberger, Head of Content Sales International, ORF-Enterprise

Variety Magazine