MFF & CO Adapts William Ury's "Possible" for Film and Television

International entertainment studio MFF & CO has secured the rights to William Ury's book "Possible: How We Survive (and Thrive) in an Age of Conflict." The studio plans to develop a fictional universe inspired by Ury's extensive experience in mediating high-stakes situations, including nuclear standoffs and peace negotiations across various continents. The adaptation will center on a fictional anthropologist and backchannel negotiator navigating the world's most volatile environments, exploring both the geopolitical stakes of global conflict and the personal costs faced by those attempting to resolve it.

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William Ury is a prominent figure in the field of negotiation, co-founding the Harvard Program on Negotiation and co-authoring the best-selling book "Getting to Yes." His original work "Possible" introduces concepts such as the "Path to Possible," "Victory Speech," and "The Balcony," which serve as tools for fostering collaboration in conflict situations. Ury's insights have influenced leaders and communities globally, emphasizing the importance of understanding human fears, needs, and hopes in conflict resolution.

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MFF & CO, which originated from the international expansion of Maria Farinha Filmes, aims to translate Ury's principles into compelling storytelling. The studio's president of Global Content, Miura Kite, highlighted the urgent need for collaborative philosophies in today's polarized world. The adaptation is seen as an opportunity to create narratives that inspire hope and expand the possibilities for dialogue in conflict situations. Co-founder Marcos Nisti expressed that this project aligns closely with the company's core values.

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William Ury remarked on the project's significance, stating, “In a world where conflict often feels inevitable, the real frontier is not victory, but possibility.” He emphasized the importance of showcasing human pathways to understanding across divides. Miura Kite noted that Ury's work has profoundly shaped negotiation approaches worldwide, reinforcing the need for stories that resonate emotionally and inspire collaboration.

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While the project has garnered enthusiasm, some critics may question the feasibility of translating complex negotiation theories into engaging narratives. Concerns about oversimplifying Ury's concepts for entertainment purposes could arise, particularly regarding the portrayal of sensitive geopolitical issues.

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MFF & CO's adaptation of "Possible" is part of a broader slate that includes various film and television projects, such as "Pegasus" and "Fail-Safe." The studio has also announced plans to adapt Globo telenovelas for North American audiences, indicating a commitment to diverse storytelling. The collaboration with Ury is expected to unfold further as the project develops, with more details likely to emerge in the coming months.

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