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In a significant move to expand its content offerings, Canal+ has entered into a major licensing agreement with Beta Film, a leading independent production and distribution company in Europe. This collaboration will enable Canal+ to present a selection of compelling series across various European territories, including Austrian, Swiss, Czech, Slovak, Hungarian, Romanian, Belgian, and Dutch markets. The deal encompasses multiple platforms, showcasing a range of genres that cater to diverse audiences.
The centerpiece of this agreement is the highly anticipated thriller, The Couple Next Door, featuring Sam Heughan, known for his role in Outlander. Alongside this, the standout from Berlinale 2025, Other People’s Money, adds further depth to the lineup. This strategy enhances Canal+’s catalog and positions it as a key player in the competitive European television landscape.
Exploring the captivating narratives
The titles included in this deal predominantly focus on crime, reflecting the genre’s popularity in contemporary European television. From the intriguing subplots in The Couple Next Door to the shocking financial deceit depicted in Other People’s Money, the series promise to engage audiences. Other notable entries include the crime drama Cold Summer, which delves into the complexities of the criminal underworld, and the detective series Makari – Sicilian Mysteries, blending local culture with thrilling storytelling.
Diverse themes and rich storytelling
This agreement not only features crime-centric narratives, but also embraces coming-of-age stories such as Prisma, which explores the challenges of adolescence and identity. Another noteworthy title is Last to Break, a biographical account of Finnish motorcycle racer Jarno Saarinen, illustrating the dangers and excitement of racing in the 1970s. This blend of genres ensures that Canal+ caters to a wide array of viewer preferences, from thrill-seekers to those interested in personal journeys.
A closer look at the standout titles
Among the most highly anticipated series is Other People’s Money, which premiered at the Berlinale. Produced by X-Filme Creative Pool in partnership with True Content Entertainment, the show examines a massive €146 billion tax fraud scheme involving banks and wealthy investors. The ethical implications of this fraud raise questions about legality and accountability. Directed by Jan Schomburg, the series has received critical acclaim, with Der Spiegel describing it as a “masterpiece” that combines intricate storytelling with urgent social commentary.
The Couple Next Door showcases a gripping narrative where the protagonist, Evie, portrayed by Eleanor Tomlinson, grapples with her inner demons after moving to a seemingly idyllic suburb. As she develops an obsession with her neighbor, played by Heughan, the series explores themes of desire and psychological complexity. The show has already seen success, selling to over 55 territories globally, including significant deals with NBC Universal for Latin America and RTL in Germany.
Recognizing excellence in television
This partnership also highlights the success of other productions. For instance, El Inmortal: Gangs of Madrid has won accolades for its portrayal of a 1990s drug gang, securing the title of best action series at the Produ Awards 2025. Meanwhile, Cold Summer, an Italian mafia series, has broken viewership records in its home country, reflecting the increasing appetite for high-quality, engaging television content.
The collaboration between Canal+ and Beta Film exemplifies a growing trend in European television, where high-quality narratives and diverse storytelling are becoming the norm. As these series begin to roll out across various platforms, viewers can anticipate an exciting lineup that promises to deliver both entertainment and thought-provoking content.