The universe of Sir Terry Pratchett’s fantasy book series Discworld is going to expand in a series of new adaptations that are coming. Pratchett’s production company, Narrativia, has struck a deal with Endeavor Content and UK-based producer Motive Pictures to make this happen.
These production companies” will bring the books to screens in a series of adaptation that ‘remain absolutely faithful’ to Pratchett’s original vision. It’s been made clear that they will have an “exclusive” relationship going forward to create “truly authentic” Discworld screen adaptations.
This news comes after BBC America ordered The Watch, which is an eight-part series based on Pratchett’s Discworld novels. This series is being produced by BBC Studios, although it’s likely that they won’t be playing in Pratchett’s Discworld universe for long.
The story the books tell “take place on a flat planet known as Discworld, which is balanced on the backs of four elephants which in turn stand on the back of a giant turtle.” The series launched in 1983 with The Colour of Magic and continued until the final novel The Shepherd’s Crown, which was published in 2015, following Pratchett’s death.
It’s explained that the books “frequently parody or take inspiration from J. R. R. Tolkien, Robert E. Howard, H. P. Lovecraft, Charles Dickens and William Shakespeare, as well as mythology, folklore and fairy tales, often paying homage to them with satirical parallels of cultural, political and scientific issues.”
Rhianna Pratchett, Co-Director of Narrativia, said in a statement:
“Discworld teems with unique characters, witty narrative and incredible literary tropes, and we feel these should be realised on screen in a form that my father would be proud of. It’s wonderful to embark on this journey with Motive and Endeavor Content, who both perfectly share our vision to make this a reality.”
Simon Maxwell, CEO of Motive Pictures added:
“Discworld is a national treasure and we are thrilled to be forging this new partnership with Narrativia and Endeavor Content. Together we will produce shows that will be loved by millions of Discworld fans worldwide, whilst also opening up Sir Terry Pratchett’s epic creations and legacy to new audiences. We launched Motive to make high quality British shows with global scale and impact and I can think of nothing that exemplifies that ambition more than this hugely exciting partnership.”
Lorenzo De Maio, Head of TV Advisory for Endeavor Content said:
“We are honoured to bring Sir Terry Pratchett’s Discworld to the screen, in partnership with best-in-class producers Narrativia and Motive Pictures. Discworld is a masterpiece of storytelling, and we look forward to working with our partners to bring it to audiences worldwide.”
If you’re a fan of the Discworld book series, there’s no doubt that this is exciting news! Hopefully, these producers and gather together a group of creative and imaginative talent that will be able to properly bring these stories to life.
Source: Deadline