Hot Picks: Crime Night

An outlier in the true crime genre, this Australian format employs a comedic panel show set-up to offer a refreshing take on a TV mainstay.

Each week, a panel – made up of a host, two criminologists and two rotating guest comedians – dissect cases to discover the science behind a crime while revealing little-explored details about how some of the world’s most infamous criminals were caught.

Each episode is based around a theme of modern-day criminology – be it eyewitness testimony, scams or surveillance – and includes a comedic monologue referencing real-life cases.

The panel then discuss the cases, before the comedians face an ‘experiment of the week’ that places them into real-world scenarios, bringing the audience into play to explore if they can spot, for example, their own deepfakes.

The format’s idea was derived from creator Frank Bruzzese’s decision to enrol in an undergraduate criminology degree during the pandemic. “From there, he quickly discovered that the science behind crime is even more intriguing than the crimes themselves,” says Billy Russell, head of non-scripted at producer Dreamchaser.

The ABC show taps into Bruzzese’s criminologist university friends for the panel, and while truth is at the centre of the format, the aim is to explore the lighter-hearted side of cases.

“Each crime featured in Crime Night! is carefully selected to illustrate the core topic of the episode and bring complex criminology theories to life in a relatable way,” continues Russell. “For example, when exploring eyewitness testimony, the show unpacks the Ivan Milat case – where a serial killer’s conviction hinged on a remarkable eyewitness account, which was bolstered by Milat’s likeness to a famous cricketer.

“In our Scams episode, we revisit classic deceptions like the ‘Nigerian prince scam’, while delving into modern concerns such as deepfakes and digital fraud. The goal is always to reveal unexpected angles on classic cases or introduce fascinating, memorable stories that leave viewers both informed and entertained.”

Few other formats offer such a take on true crime, and Karen Quinn, manager of content sales at ABC Commercial, says the show stands out “because it boldly fuses our global obsession with crime with the proven crowd-pleaser of the panel show, while offering something fresh and distinctive”.

Russell adds: “The format acts as a dynamic showcase for star talent and offers networks a returnable, highly promotable vehicle that’s intelligent, surprising and packed with substance. And, most importantly, it invites audiences to a viewing experience that’s rich with sharp banter, entertaining social experiments, hidden-camera stunts, engaging games and watercooler insights that reframe criminal stories in unexpected ways.”

The show’s appeal to international buyers lies in the fact it turns the world’s most captivating genre “into bold, accessible and highly entertaining television”, says Quinn.

“True crime commands audience loyalty across the globe, and Crime Night! channels that fascination into a witty, fast-paced package that is easily adaptable and cost-effective.

“Its unique mix of humour and expert analysis makes complicated themes engaging for any market, while its returnable structure and clear brand allow for seamless localisation and noisy promotion.”