Hulu acquires Australian drama Critical Incident in All3Media agreement

Disney-owned Hulu has recently secured the US streaming rights to the Australian psychological crime thriller series, Critical Incident (6×60’). The deal was facilitated by All3Media International, marking a significant milestone for the show produced by Matchbox Pictures.

Originally premiering on Stan in Australia in August, Critical Incident is now set to make its debut on Hulu as part of its global expansion strategy. The series has also been acquired by New Zealand’s public broadcaster TVNZ, broadening its reach across multiple territories.

A collaborative effort between Matchbox and All3Media International, Critical Incident received substantial backing from Screen Australia and Stan, with additional support from Screen NSW. The series, created by Sarah Bassiuoni, draws inspiration from her firsthand experiences as a lawyer in Western Sydney’s juvenile justice system.

The storyline of Critical Incident revolves around a police officer, portrayed by Akshay Khanna, whose routine patrol takes a dark turn, resulting in a bystander suffering severe injuries. The show delves into the intricate dynamics of policing and criminality in urban environments, offering a compelling narrative that resonates with audiences globally.

Jennifer Askin, the Senior VP for North America at All3Media International, praised Critical Incident for its authentic depiction of the challenges faced in policing suburban areas of major cities. She emphasized the series’ universal themes, despite its specific setting in Western Sydney, highlighting its relevance on a broader scale.

Featuring a talented ensemble cast including Zoë Boe, Roxie Mohebbi, and Hunter Page-Lochard, alongside Akshay Khanna, Critical Incident is directed by Neil Sharma and Daniel Nettheim. The series showcases a mix of emerging and established performers, delivering powerful and thought-provoking performances.

The creative team behind Critical Incident, led by Sarah Bassiuoni and writers Ruth Underwood, Hannah Fitzpatrick, and Natasha Henry, has crafted a compelling narrative that explores the complexities of law enforcement and criminal behavior. Executive producers Sheila Jayadev and Debbie Lee from Matchbox, along with Cailah Scobie and Amanda Duthie from Stan, have played pivotal roles in bringing the series to life.

All3Media International, responsible for global distribution, announced the US and New Zealand deals for Critical Incident at Mipcom in Cannes. The show joins a lineup of new titles under the distributor’s umbrella, including crime drama The Gold and the rags-to-riches series Joan, featuring Sophie Turner in a leading role.