Film rights sold for Riddle Gully series

Whoa Flamingo has optioned the film and television rights to Fremantle Press children’s titles Mystery at Riddle Gully and Riddle Gully Runaway, both by Jen Banyard.

CEO Jane Fraser said Whoa Flamingo was an Australian-based film and television production company with an impressive track record in the development of content for young audiences in the form of feature films, television programs and online broadcasting.

‘We were particularly impressed by their desire to work closely with authors to bring their works to the big screen,’ said Fraser.

Jen Banyard said it was early days but if all went to plan it would be magical seeing her Riddle Gully characters transformed for the screen.

‘I’m rapt! It’s the sort of thing people josh about – your books being made into movies,’ said Banyard, who learned of the option while holidaying with friends in Europe. ‘Just quietly, I’m thinking Cate Blanchett for Pollo,’ she joked.

With a memorable cast that includes junior newshound Pollo di Nozi, her best mate Will, and pet sheep Shorn Connery, the Riddle Gully book series has a third instalment in the works, tentatively scheduled for 2016.

For Western Australian readers, an edited extract from Riddle Gully Runaway will be serialised in The West Australian every Tuesday throughout Term 3. Mystery at Riddle Gully and Riddle Gully Runaway are available from all good bookstores and online.