Das Boot helmer Andreas Prochaska has been tapped to direct Alex Rider, the TV series adaptation of Anthony Horowitz’s young adult novel series that is set up at Eleventh Hour Films and Sony Pictures Television.
Alex Rider charts the adventures of a reluctant teen spy on his missions to save the world. The adaptation is being penned by The Borgias scribe Guy Burt. Prochaska will direct the first four episodes. He will also executive produce alongside Eve Gutierrez, Jill Green, Anthony Horowitz and Guy Burt. Casting is set to begin by the end of the year.
“Within the first few pages of reading Guy Burt’s compelling scripts for the series I was hooked. Guy has taken Anthony’s brilliant, well-loved character and created a bold and unique concept, a coming of age story set in the clandestine world of spies sure to excite fans and newcomers alike”, Andreas Prochaska said in a statement. “It’s great to be working with Eve, Jill and the Eleventh Hour team along with Sony Pictures Television on such a thrilling show. I can’t wait to get started”.
Eleventh Hour Films optioned the rights to Anthony Horowitz’s novels last year. Sony Pictures Television, who hold a minority stake in the indie, will handle global distribution for the series. The two companies are also working together on a range of scripted projects, including UFO drama Rendlesham starring Laurence Fishburne. At present there is no broadcast partner attached to Alex Rider on either side of the Atlantic.
“We are delighted to be working with visionary director Andreas Prochaska”, said Eve Gutierrez, Executive Producer and Head of Talent at Eleventh Hour Films. “Andreas’ work whether for the big or small screen is always underpinned by thrilling, emotional experiences making him the perfect choice for Alex Rider”.
While Wayne Garvie, President of International Production for Sony Pictures Television, added: “Andreas has a captivating and authentic style of storytelling and we couldn’t be more excited to have him on board. We can’t wait to start the search for our new Alex with Andreas leading the way!”.
