Quintus Studios, the international factual distributor and AVOD channel owner, has commissioned a new original documentary series exploring piracy and maritime crime.
Titled Pirate Coasts, the series will debut on Free Documentary, Quintus’ flagship YouTube channel which boasts over 5.4 million subscribers. The pilot episode, Terror on the Asian Seas, has already secured a pre-sale partner in German free-to-air broadcaster WELT.
The film is produced in-house by Development and Production Executive Frederick Gillingham and forms part of the growing Quintus Originals slate, which aims to tackle contemporary global issues through high-end factual storytelling designed for both digital and linear platforms.
Pirate Coasts; Terror on the Asian Seas investigates the historical and modern dimensions of maritime crime in one of the world’s most strategically significant shipping regions. With thousands of vessels transiting through the waters of South-East Asia every year, the region is a critical artery in the global supply chain. But it also remains vulnerable to criminal activity from pirate gangs and organised networks operating with relative impunity.
The documentary delves into the roots of piracy in the region and explores the socio-political and economic forces that continue to fuel these activities today. It also highlights the work of organisations and multinational initiatives dedicated to enhancing maritime security and reducing piracy-related incidents.
“Maritime piracy is still a prevalent issue in some parts of the world and this pilot episode provides an unfiltered insight into those who are doing it and those who are suffering because of it,” said Adam Jacobs, Creative Director at Quintus Studios and executive producer on the film. “This is another premium production from Fred, who secured great access to those involved in this illegal activity.”
The commissioning is part of Quintus Studios’ broader content strategy to create high-quality digital-first factual programming with global relevance. The company, led by Managing Director Gerrit Kemming, operates a portfolio of successful YouTube channels including Free Documentary, Free Documentary History, and ENDEVR, reaching more than 15 million subscribers globally.
Anouk van Dijk, Head of Sales and Co-Productions, brokered the deal with WELT and is overseeing international distribution.
