Australia-based production company RIISE Productions has announced its global expansion with the promotion of Amy McCulloch to Global Head of Development, Film and TV. RIISE Productions, part of RIISE World, creates original film and television IP with global talent, and is now in development with production companies internationally.
Amy McCulloch joined RIISE after a long tenure at Disney AUNZ, where she created and produced several original scripted formats for digital and linear, filmed in Australia, New Zealand, Los Angeles and Hong Kong. She leads film and TV development at RIISE, overseeing and shaping their dynamic slate of original content, a role that is now expanding globally, in concert with RIISE’s growing slate. She has over 15 years of industry experience as a writer and creative producer.
McCulloch brings extensive knowledge and experience across all aspects of production, and has held senior positions at Seven News, Seven Network and Endemol Shine.
RIISE Productions is the production arm of sustainable ecommerce and retail platform RIISE World. It produces scripted series and films, and unscripted series, formats and documentaries.
The slate is built for entertainment and subtly positions a desirable sustainable lifestyle embedded in the life of protagonists and viewers. The core aim is to inspire global mainstream audiences with hope and provide the confidence to build a better world.
Leveraging experience of the climate space and a strong understanding of global geo-politics, RIISE works with creative talent on and off screen, with a laser focus on creating distinctive, exciting and captivating storytelling.
The scripted slate consists of compelling stories and complex characters to hook viewers and provoke conversation long after viewing. Past collaborations include a project with UK based writer and satirist Heydon Prowse, and upcoming scripted projects include collaborations with Rake creator Peter Duncan, and a feature film with horror writer, Natasha Le Petit.
The unscripted slate leans into celebrity and fashion, showcasing glamorous and desirable lifestyles. Unscripted formats include a show that profiles celebrities and their style, with on-the-spot integration of treasured wardrobe items with sustainable pieces and accessories.
Sara Bell, CEO of RIISE Productions, said, “Expanding RIISE Productions globally is a natural next step in our mission to engage mainstream audiences with compelling, world-class storytelling. Amy’s experience and creative vision make her the perfect innovator to drive our ambitious production slate forward, and we’re looking forward to sharing news on our first projects with our global partners following a successful Berlinale and MIP London.”
Amy McCulloch, Global Head of Development, Film and TV, said, “I’m incredibly passionate about using our platform for good, so it’s an honour to be a part of RIISE Productions at such a pivotal moment in its growth. The power of storytelling to inspire and shift perspectives has never been more apparent or more critical, and I look forward to collaborating with incredible talent worldwide to do this. With them we will create bold, engaging narratives that captivate audiences and spark meaningful conversations.”
RIISE World was founded by Sara Bell. Sara is CEO of RIISE Productions and sets the strategy for film and TV development as well as being actively involved in creating the RIISE slate. Bell founded RIISE to change the narrative on climate change and create an air of possibility. Drawing on insights gained in a global career spanning financial markets, energy and media, she creates content to invite mainstream audiences into climate friendly lifestyles.
