Andy Serkis and Jonathan Cavendish’s The Imaginarium and Urban Myth Films will turn 1973 The Wicker Man into a series. Furthermore, Howard Overman is on board the project as its writer.
Deadline reports that the horror classic is in development to be transformed into a series for television. While the script is in development, the studios are currently looking for companies for its distribution.
Andy Serkis And Jonathan Cavendish To Make The Wicker Man Series
Image: British Lion Films
In 1973, the original movie starred Edward Woodward, Britt Ekland, Diane Cilento, Ingrid Pitt, and Christopher Lee. Where, Woodward plays Sgt. Neil Howie who comes the remote Hebridean Island of Summerisle to investigate the disappearance of Geraldine Cowper’s Rowan Morrison. In the movie, Lee portrays Lord Summerisle who leads the island dwellers who have embraced pagan worship. Finally, a series of events transpire leading to Howie uncovering life-ending truth.
In 2006, a remake that Neil LaBute wrote and directed starred Nicholas Cage. Unlike the original, this version did not fare well in the box office as it generated only $39M from a $40M budget. With some changes on the plot elements and update on the setting, the remake scored only 15% on Rotten Tomatoes. This, as opposed to the original film’s 89% score.
When asked about the difference from the film to the series, Overman said the new adaptation will:
explore the same themes of sacrifice, superstition and ritual that were at its core.
Cavendish, the co-founder of The Imaginarium said that their writer has:
created a bold, shocking and unique series, pulling the themes and terrifying power of the original Wicker Man into a thrilling modern setting
Johnny Capps of Urban Myth called the project
a fantastic collaboration.
The Imaginarium To Make The Wicker Man Series
Image: Warner Bros.
As the production that Andy Serkis and Jonathan Cavendish is leading is fairly new, many who have just learned of the project in development have concerns. Specifically, the fact that the original beats the latest remake in delivery will be more difficult for a newer adaptation. The original movie had the element of surprise in its court. This is why it’s become one of the most celebrated horror feature films. Having the audience expect and know the end already diminishes a huge amount of suspense. People already know what is going to happen.
On the other hand, if they somehow make a twist where the lead survives the sacrifice, it will be unacceptable for the fans. Indeed, this project will really rely on the storytelling skill of the writer aside from the eye of the director and cast portrayal.
In the end, we can only hope they at least do as good.
