Breaking News: Time Studios Teams Up with Partners In Kind for Impactful Documentary Features
Time Studios, the Emmy-winning film and television division of Time, is thrilled to announce a new collaboration with the purpose-driven media company Partners In Kind. This partnership aims to co-produce and co-finance a series of compelling documentary features over the next two years, united by a commitment to create cultural and social impact through powerful storytelling.
Their inaugural project, Winnie and Nelson, is a captivating biography and political thriller that delves into the profound love story between a young Winnie Madikizela-Mandela and an older Nelson Mandela. This relationship not only fueled a revolution but also transformed Nelson Mandela into a global icon, while Winnie remains a complex and often misunderstood figure in history. The film will be directed by the talented Dawn Porter, known for her acclaimed works such as John Lewis: Good Trouble and The Way I See It.
Additionally, another intriguing project titled Monolith was revealed in April. This film will explore the groundbreaking impact of Stanley Kubrick’s 2001: A Space Odyssey and is set for release in 2026. It is being produced in collaboration with the Stanley Kubrick estate and the Stanley Kubrick Film Archive, with Stevan Riley (Listen to Me Marlon) at the helm. Phoenix Pictures, Catchlight Studios, and Leonardo DiCaprio’s Appian Way are also involved in the production, with DiCaprio serving as an executive producer.
Time Studios and Partners In Kind are committed to exploring a diverse array of genres and perspectives in their collaborations. The organizations are currently reviewing multiple incoming projects while actively advancing those already in development. Each documentary will be complemented by an impact campaign through the Partners In Kind Foundation, designed to extend the film’s reach and influence beyond the screen.
Dave O’Connor, President of Time Studios, described the partnership as “a natural alignment of values and vision.” He stated, “Together with Partners In Kind, we’re dedicated to bringing transformative stories to life, showcasing the resilience, leadership, and love that shine through adversity.”
Co-founders of Partners In Kind, Gillian Hormel and Shelly Tygielski, echoed this sentiment, saying, “We are passionate about amplifying untold stories and highlighting often-overlooked perspectives. This collaboration with Time Studios enables us to support filmmakers who reveal complex truths, honor historical legacies, and encourage audiences to reflect on the cultural and ethical forces shaping our world. We are committed to producing bold and lasting films that inform, engage, and inspire.”
Dawn Porter, director of Winnie and Nelson, emphasized the significance of investing in documentary filmmaking. She expressed hope that this powerful partnership would inspire other funders to support impactful storytelling. “Audiences love our films, and this investment allows us to continue serving them,” she said.
Time Studios has recently produced notable films such as Megan Thee Stallion: In Her Words, Frida, and the Oscar-winning short film The Last Repair Shop by Kris Bowers and Ben Proudfoot. Time Studios is represented by CAA, while Partners In Kind is represented by Marc Chamlin at Loeb & Loeb LLP.
Stay tuned for more updates on these exciting projects and the powerful stories they aim to tell!