TV series based on gender-based violence experiences and trauma offer a unique opportunity for deep, emotional storytelling over multiple episodes, but they also present significant challenges. When telling a gender-based violence story for the small screen, how do producers balance authenticity with ethical responsibility? How to avoid exploiting sensitive material while honoring the narrative? When are these topics exploited when are they owned? And how can stereotypes be deconstructed and the male gaze avoided?

With commissioners increasingly investing in trauma-driven narratives, the risks are high—both creatively and commercially. What makes these stories compelling over the long-form format of a series? How do producers assess whether a trauma-based story can connect with a broad audience while remaining respectful to the subject and their story?

In this session, creators and producers of recently released shows which deal with these narratives in very different ways will explore how to navigate the risks of telling deeply disturbing and psychologically challenging stories in TV series format, how they preserve the emotional integrity of the story, and what makes trauma-based narratives work in today’s competitive media landscape. How do you ensure a commercial return on such risky storytelling while maintaining authenticity?

This event will take place in CinemaxX 3.