To raise the balance of the budget to produce an Original TV drama series set in Mauritius, qualifies for the Mauritius 40% Cash Film Rebate
Tim Purcell was born and educated in the UK, emigrated to Australia in 1969, where his career commenced as an Advertising Copy Writer with National Advertising Services in Melbourne, head hunted to be Copy Chief at the Galmor O'Keefe agency whilst still only 20. Moving to Sydney the following year he was to join the original script writing team of Australia's first commercial TV soap opera 'Number 96'. Went on to write for many Australian TV dramas and comedy series for UK TV & Radio including Dave Allen at Large, Weekending and News Huddlines.
In a media career spanning five decades Tim has been a screenwriter, investigative journalist for the UK national press, published author, publisher, director and producer of corporate and music videos, documentaries, TV series and feature films in the UK and Mauritius, where he helped set up the Film Incentive Scheme. Since its launch in 2013 Tim has co-produced 9 international films and TV series from the UK, South Africa, Canada, Israel, France, Hong Kong, Japan and China, including the 2014 box office hit, 'Break Up Guru'.
Paradise Retreat Mauritius was conceived to promote the country as a film destination and to showcase the indigenous talent both in front of and behind the camera. It centres around a hotel resort with a host of characters from different backgrounds, who come face to face with their own personal stories and battles. From birth to marriage; interracial relationships to financial struggles; family feuds to trouble with the law; the staff of the resort are locals residing in village communities who experience both sides of life. It may be Paradise...but, they can't always Retreat.
Mauritius itself is not only a gorgeous landscape that our series is set in, but it is very much an integral main character that allows us and the viewer to explore an unexplored world. We aim to keep loyal to the identity of Mauritius, from it's beautiful beaches, growing expat businesses and tourist attractions to the reality of lifestyles lived by people from all backgrounds; the socio-economic struggles, and the very traditional conservative worldview. This series will strive to present an honest look at a small paradise island with a rainbow society.
It features a predominantly Mauritian cast, with 3 or 4 international guest stars and an all Mauritian crew.
This project closed unsuccessfully on 1st March 2024