The 1973 horror film The Wicker Man has continued to be an influential and beloved classic over the years. Now, following a remake from 2006 and a spiritual sequel from 2011, The Wicker Man is being adapted as a television series. Furthermore, it appears that none other than Andy Serkis of Planet of the Apes fame is involved.
As revealed via Deadline, “Andy Serkis and Jonathan Cavendish’s The Imaginarium and Studiocanal-backed Urban Myth Films are turning The Wicker Man into a TV series.” Furthermore, they were also able to reveal that “BAFTA-winning Misfits and War of the Worlds writer Howard Overman has penned the script.” As of this writing, the series is merely “in the early stages of pitching to potential broadcasters.”
Although details for the series are scarce, Howard Overman did note that it will “explore the same themes of sacrifice, superstition and ritual” despite some differences from the original film. In addition, Jonathan Cavendish emphasized that Overman has “created a bold, shocking and unique series, pulling the themes and terrifying power of the original Wicker Man into a thrilling modern setting.” Urban Myth exec Johnny Capps further notes that the series will be a “fantastic collaboration.”
Hopefully we’ll have more details on the project soon. But considering that its only in the early stages of being pitched, it might be some time before we have additional information. Still, though, it’s certainly a promising project by the sounds of things. The Wicker Man is an incredible film with a rich story that could easily be expanded upon if done properly. So, with that in mind, we’ll just have to see how this project pans out. If you’re unfamiliar with the plot of the original film…
“It follows Police Sergeant Neil Howle, who journeys by seaplane to the remote Hebridean Island of Summerisle to investigate the disappearance of a young girl. The devout Christian is dismayed to find the Islanders paying homage to the pagan Celtic gods of their ancestors and all hell breaks loose, ending in tragedy.”
Fans can stay tuned to ScreenGeek for additional updates on the plans to adapt The Wicker Man as a television series.