If it’s AMC’s desire to offer the best original series on cable television, then the latest news is yet another step in the right direction.
The cable outlet has signed on for the small-screen adaptation of the popular comic-book series, “Walking Dead.” According to the Hollywood Reporter, this monthly, black and white series has been a hot commodity since it debuted in 2003 and was the subject of a heavy bidding war by several networks and cable outlets.
Frank Darabont is on board to write, direct and exec produce the project, with Gale Anne Hurd of Valhalla Pictures and David Alpert of Circle of Confusion also executive producing.
“Dead” chronicles the months and years following a zombie apocalypse where a group of survivors, led by police officer Rick Grimes, travel in search of a safe, secure home. The comic explores the challenges of life in a world overrun by zombies that take a toll on the survivors. Over time, they grow willing to do anything to survive, so the interpersonal conflicts sometimes present a greater danger to their continuing survival than the zombies who roam the country.
A “Dead” series would transcend the comic book genre and mesh with AMC’s other drama offerings, “Mad Men” and “Breaking Bad,” said Joel Stillerman, senior victe-president of original programming, production and digital content.
“I don’t know of another series of books that has such beautiful storytelling, great human emotions and everything that really works on AMC,” he said. “It allows us to stay where we want to stay: in the world of smart, sophisticated storytelling and apply that to a show that we think the audience would love.”
Justin says
This could be the best thing or the worst thing to happen to the series. Chances are they’re going to ruin the series. It would be an easy show to create and be successful as long as they stick to the series down to every little detail. Please god don’t ruin this you have a golden opportunity to create a masterpiece just do it right and don’t try to change or add your own twist