ITVS GE, NHK tie up for blue chip doc ‘Wild Tokyo’

ITV Studios Global Entertainment has partnered up with Japanese pubcaster NHK on the production of 4K blue chip natural history programme Wild Tokyo.

The 1 x 60-minute doc is set to launch in the lead up to the Olympics in Tokyo next summer.

It is co-produced via ITV Studios-owned factual producer Oxford Scientific Films.

From the mountainous forests of Tokyo’s Okutama region, along the Tama River, through the wild sanctuaries of Tokyo’s city centre and out to its network of volcanic islands – Wild Tokyo features 4K photography to reveal an unseen side of Japan’s capital city.

Masa Hayakawa, Executive Producer at NHK, said: “I’m delighted to be producing Wild Tokyo in this special Olympic year.  With OSF’s help I’m confident this film will be visually stunning and will reveal wildlife and behaviour rarely seen in Tokyo”

Ruth Berry, MD of ITV Studios Global Entertainment added: “Wild Tokyo is set to be a dazzling look at a city steeped in history, culture and beauty. As the world’s media turns its interest to the Tokyo Olympics in summer 2020, it offers context about the area’s unique landscape and wildlife for potential visitors.

“Wild Tokyo is a great indication of what’s to come as we ramp up our non-scripted portfolio in line with global demand.”

Clare Birks, CEO of Oxford Scientific Films said: “We were delighted to have the opportunity of co-producing a blue-chip natural history film with NHK, one of the world’s most respected public service broadcasters.

“We feel privileged to be entrusted with showcasing their iconic city and its extraordinary wildlife and we are looking forward to working with the NHK natural history team.  ITV’s support is confirmation of the genre’s increasing commercial appeal.”