10. The Great God Pan by Arthur Machen (1894)
A golden fantasy horror classic, The Great God Pan almost ruined its author’s reputation at the time: his tale of pagan woodland rituals, freaky crimes, and supernatural encounters was denounced by critics. But it influenced iconic writers like Bram Stoker, H. P. Lovecraft, and Stephen King himself who described it as “the best horror story in the English language.”
9. Invasion of the Body Snatchers by Jack Finney (1955)
Tapping into quite the opposite subgenre, Invasion of the Body Snatchers is a timeless sci-fi horror following a doctor’s investigation into his patients' reports. As more and more people are seemingly losing their emotions and personalities, he uncovers an alien conspiracy for replacing humans with identical copies. A story to be “read and savored,” King says.
8. The Shrinking Man by Richard Matheson (1956)
The Shrinking Man is, in turn, a psychological horror, and an amazing one,...
A golden fantasy horror classic, The Great God Pan almost ruined its author’s reputation at the time: his tale of pagan woodland rituals, freaky crimes, and supernatural encounters was denounced by critics. But it influenced iconic writers like Bram Stoker, H. P. Lovecraft, and Stephen King himself who described it as “the best horror story in the English language.”
9. Invasion of the Body Snatchers by Jack Finney (1955)
Tapping into quite the opposite subgenre, Invasion of the Body Snatchers is a timeless sci-fi horror following a doctor’s investigation into his patients' reports. As more and more people are seemingly losing their emotions and personalities, he uncovers an alien conspiracy for replacing humans with identical copies. A story to be “read and savored,” King says.
8. The Shrinking Man by Richard Matheson (1956)
The Shrinking Man is, in turn, a psychological horror, and an amazing one,...
- 5/19/2024
- by dean-black@startefacts.com (Dean Black)
- STartefacts.com
Products featured are independently selected by our editorial team and we may earn a commission from purchases made from our links.
Pop culture’s love of adapting existing IP and the proliferation of streaming services means there are many, many TV shows based on books are in the works. In fact, dozens made it to the small screen in 2020 alone.
Long-running book-to-tv series come in all genres, from serious prestige (like the fantasy world of “Game of Thrones” or darkly prescient “The Handmaid’s Tale”) to frothy fun (Freeform’s teen mystery “Pretty Little Liars”) and everything in between.
That’s why this list of some of the best recent book-to-tv adaptations contains shows that aired in 2020 or are scheduled to air in the coming months. That means: the second seasons of genre hits like HBO’s “His Dark Materials” and Netflix’s “The Haunting of Hill House” followup “The Haunting of Bly Manor,...
Pop culture’s love of adapting existing IP and the proliferation of streaming services means there are many, many TV shows based on books are in the works. In fact, dozens made it to the small screen in 2020 alone.
Long-running book-to-tv series come in all genres, from serious prestige (like the fantasy world of “Game of Thrones” or darkly prescient “The Handmaid’s Tale”) to frothy fun (Freeform’s teen mystery “Pretty Little Liars”) and everything in between.
That’s why this list of some of the best recent book-to-tv adaptations contains shows that aired in 2020 or are scheduled to air in the coming months. That means: the second seasons of genre hits like HBO’s “His Dark Materials” and Netflix’s “The Haunting of Hill House” followup “The Haunting of Bly Manor,...
- 8/29/2020
- by Jean Bentley
- Indiewire
Defending Jacob has been one of the most prominent contenders circulating Twitter. Fans are persistent with their love for the Apple TV Plus crime series (see the above tweets). The popular show entered the streaming platform in late April, and since then has gained a cult-like following. The series is an adaptation of William Landay’s 2007 novel, and Chris Evans and Michelle Dockery absolutely shine. And of course, Jaeden Martell (Jacob himself) is without a doubt a young star on the rise throughout the last few years. Judging by Twitter’s reaction, it wouldn’t be too much of a surprise if the show lands a spot on the official ballot.
- 7/17/2020
- by Rebecca Breitfeller
- Hollywood Insider - Substance & Meaningful Entertainment
“The Killing” may have been ahead of its time.
Veena Sud’s crime drama, which first ran on AMC and was later picked up by Netflix, delivered a 13-episode first season in 2011 that declined to solve the central mystery of who killed small-town teen Rosie Larsen (Katie Findlay). When the season ended that June, there was an uproar on social media from the audience. They had given it so much time, energy and engagement while theorizing online about whodunnit, but failed to receive an answer. Sud announced the plan was always to definitively resolve who the perpetrator was by the end of the second season, but for many, that wasn’t enough.
Almost a decade later, though, there is a surge in streaming outlets that allow for not only more (and more unique) storytelling, but also new ways for the audience to engage with said content. This is causing show...
Veena Sud’s crime drama, which first ran on AMC and was later picked up by Netflix, delivered a 13-episode first season in 2011 that declined to solve the central mystery of who killed small-town teen Rosie Larsen (Katie Findlay). When the season ended that June, there was an uproar on social media from the audience. They had given it so much time, energy and engagement while theorizing online about whodunnit, but failed to receive an answer. Sud announced the plan was always to definitively resolve who the perpetrator was by the end of the second season, but for many, that wasn’t enough.
Almost a decade later, though, there is a surge in streaming outlets that allow for not only more (and more unique) storytelling, but also new ways for the audience to engage with said content. This is causing show...
- 7/10/2020
- by Danielle Turchiano
- Variety Film + TV
Defending Jacob was a resounding success for Apple TV+, but there has been no indication about whether a second season could be made.
Defending Jacob Season 1 wrapped up the storylines nicely, but the question remained about whether Jacob was a killer.
Now, stars Chris Evans and Michelle Dockery have opened up about the series returning for more in a new interview with Deadline.
“I mean look, I’ll say this. Sometimes what matters more to me than the script, than the role, is the people, you know?" Evans told the outlet.
"The process of acting is such a tricky one and it can be really exacerbated by the wrong environment, and when you find a sweet spot, when you have a playground that you can’t wait to get to because everyone makes it such a safe environment to take risks, it’s understandable to miss it and maybe want to revisit.
Defending Jacob Season 1 wrapped up the storylines nicely, but the question remained about whether Jacob was a killer.
Now, stars Chris Evans and Michelle Dockery have opened up about the series returning for more in a new interview with Deadline.
“I mean look, I’ll say this. Sometimes what matters more to me than the script, than the role, is the people, you know?" Evans told the outlet.
"The process of acting is such a tricky one and it can be really exacerbated by the wrong environment, and when you find a sweet spot, when you have a playground that you can’t wait to get to because everyone makes it such a safe environment to take risks, it’s understandable to miss it and maybe want to revisit.
- 7/6/2020
- by Paul Dailly
- TVfanatic
The Apple TV+ limited series “Defending Jacob” premiered on April 24, 2020. The eight-episode crime drama is based on William Landay‘s novel of the same name. Mark Bomback created, wrote and executive produced the series for television, while Morten Tyldum directed every episode. Scroll down for our exclusive interviews with top Emmy contenders from the show.
Chris Evans and Michelle Dockery play Andy, a respected assistant district attorney, and Laurie, a child-care worker, who live in a quaint New England suburb with their 14-year-old son, Jacob (Jaeden Martell). One day, not far from the town’s middle school, one of Jacob’s classmates is found stabbed to death in a park.
SEEThe best legal argument for watching ‘Defending Jacob’? Supporting stars Cherry Jones and J.K. Simmons – I rest my case!
Circumstances in the case, such as Jacob being bullied by the victim and online rumors that he had a knife, cause...
Chris Evans and Michelle Dockery play Andy, a respected assistant district attorney, and Laurie, a child-care worker, who live in a quaint New England suburb with their 14-year-old son, Jacob (Jaeden Martell). One day, not far from the town’s middle school, one of Jacob’s classmates is found stabbed to death in a park.
SEEThe best legal argument for watching ‘Defending Jacob’? Supporting stars Cherry Jones and J.K. Simmons – I rest my case!
Circumstances in the case, such as Jacob being bullied by the victim and online rumors that he had a knife, cause...
- 7/3/2020
- by Susan Wloszczyna
- Gold Derby
There are some heavy hitters behind the Apple TV Plus limited series “Defending Jacob,” including Oscar, Emmy and Tony Award nominees and winner. But star/executive producer Chris Evans wants everyone to remember he’s got some impressive trophies himself. “And Kids’ Choice Award winner, let’s just, come on, be fair,” Evans interjected upon introductions.
The cast and crew were reuniting for a conversation in Variety’s Streaming Room about the drama, which stars Evans and Michelle Dockery as Andy and Laurie Barber, parents of a 14-year-old boy (Jaeden Martell) accused of murdering a classmate. They were joined by co-stars Cherry Jones and J.K. Simmons, and the show’s creator/writer Mark Bomback and director Morten Tyldum to discuss the twists and turns of the series, which aired eight episodes from April 24 – May 29.
Based on the 2012 novel by William Landay, Bomback says the story was originally sent to him as a potential film,...
The cast and crew were reuniting for a conversation in Variety’s Streaming Room about the drama, which stars Evans and Michelle Dockery as Andy and Laurie Barber, parents of a 14-year-old boy (Jaeden Martell) accused of murdering a classmate. They were joined by co-stars Cherry Jones and J.K. Simmons, and the show’s creator/writer Mark Bomback and director Morten Tyldum to discuss the twists and turns of the series, which aired eight episodes from April 24 – May 29.
Based on the 2012 novel by William Landay, Bomback says the story was originally sent to him as a potential film,...
- 7/2/2020
- by Jenelle Riley
- Variety Film + TV
While most fans of the Marvel Cinematic Universe know Chris Evans as Captain America, he gets to trade his red-white-and-blue patriotic costume for some well-tailored business suits in the AppleTV+ limited series “Defending Jacob.” He plays a respected assistant district attorney, Andy Barber, in the quaint town of Newton, Massachusetts, whose cozy family life is up-ended after his 14-year-old son Jacob (Jaeden Martell) is accused of stabbing to death a bullying classmate and is put on trial.
Complicating matters is the fact that his background includes a father known as “Bloody Billy Barber” (J.K. Simmons), who is serving time in a federal prison after he killed and raped a young woman years ago. The fact that his dad is in jail comes as a surprise to his wife, Laurie (Michelle Dockery), as his son’s situation dredges up his dad’s own headline-grabbing crime from the past.
SEEMichelle Dockery Interview: ‘Defending Jacob’
The show,...
Complicating matters is the fact that his background includes a father known as “Bloody Billy Barber” (J.K. Simmons), who is serving time in a federal prison after he killed and raped a young woman years ago. The fact that his dad is in jail comes as a surprise to his wife, Laurie (Michelle Dockery), as his son’s situation dredges up his dad’s own headline-grabbing crime from the past.
SEEMichelle Dockery Interview: ‘Defending Jacob’
The show,...
- 7/2/2020
- by Susan Wloszczyna
- Gold Derby
The art of adapting a novel into a television series is a tricky business, one that involves speaking to the audience that has already read the book while also drawing in viewers who have not. Several limited series this season took the additional step of tweaking the endings of those stories, some to infuse an element of surprise and others to add layers of complexity.
In bringing Celeste Ng’s “Little Fires Everywhere” to life at Hulu, showrunner Liz Tigelaar decided that the series, about two women in pursuit of vastly different familial ideals, needed a new arsonist at its climax. In the book, the youngest Richardson daughter and resident problem child sets fire to her own home.
“It obviously works so well in the book,” says Tigelaar. “But you know on the first page, basically in the first sentence, that Izzy did this. It’s a TV show, we...
In bringing Celeste Ng’s “Little Fires Everywhere” to life at Hulu, showrunner Liz Tigelaar decided that the series, about two women in pursuit of vastly different familial ideals, needed a new arsonist at its climax. In the book, the youngest Richardson daughter and resident problem child sets fire to her own home.
“It obviously works so well in the book,” says Tigelaar. “But you know on the first page, basically in the first sentence, that Izzy did this. It’s a TV show, we...
- 7/1/2020
- by Elaine Low
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Apple has signed an overall deal with Defending Jacob creator, executive producer and showrunner Mark Bomback. Under the multi-year pact, Bomback will develop new TV projects exclusively for Apple TV+.
The overall deal comes a month after thriller Defending Jacob, starring Chris Evans, wrapped its eight-episode run. In his biggest foray into TV to date, Bomback created, wrote, executive produced and showran the limited drama based on the novel of the same name by William Landay.
Like other streamers, Apple TV+ does not release viewership data, but as Deadline reported last month, Defending Jacob is said to be among the top three series premieres on the service, logging a big opening weekend with viewership continuing to build in Week 2 and the audience growing by five times in its first 10 days to rank among the two fastest-growing series premieres for Apple TV+. Defending Jacob also is believed to have set...
The overall deal comes a month after thriller Defending Jacob, starring Chris Evans, wrapped its eight-episode run. In his biggest foray into TV to date, Bomback created, wrote, executive produced and showran the limited drama based on the novel of the same name by William Landay.
Like other streamers, Apple TV+ does not release viewership data, but as Deadline reported last month, Defending Jacob is said to be among the top three series premieres on the service, logging a big opening weekend with viewership continuing to build in Week 2 and the audience growing by five times in its first 10 days to rank among the two fastest-growing series premieres for Apple TV+. Defending Jacob also is believed to have set...
- 6/30/2020
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
A version of this story about Michelle Dockery in “Defending Jacob” first appeared in the “Limited Series & Movies” issue of TheWrap’s Emmy magazine.
When Michelle Dockery first read the script for “Defending Jacob,” she didn’t realize how integral the role of Laurie Barber would be to the plot of Apple TV+’s crime drama series, based on the novel by William Landay.
The limited series follows Laurie and her husband, Andy (Chris Evans), as they navigate the impending reality that their 14-year-old son Jacob (Jaeden Martell) is being tried as an adult for the murder of his classmate Ben Rifkin.
It wasn’t until Dockery read the shocking final episode that she got the whole picture of Laurie’s character, but there was one scene earlier on that tipped her off that Laurie was a lot more than just your average suburban housewife.
Also Read: Michelle Dockery Breaks...
When Michelle Dockery first read the script for “Defending Jacob,” she didn’t realize how integral the role of Laurie Barber would be to the plot of Apple TV+’s crime drama series, based on the novel by William Landay.
The limited series follows Laurie and her husband, Andy (Chris Evans), as they navigate the impending reality that their 14-year-old son Jacob (Jaeden Martell) is being tried as an adult for the murder of his classmate Ben Rifkin.
It wasn’t until Dockery read the shocking final episode that she got the whole picture of Laurie’s character, but there was one scene earlier on that tipped her off that Laurie was a lot more than just your average suburban housewife.
Also Read: Michelle Dockery Breaks...
- 6/25/2020
- by Margeaux Sippell
- The Wrap
Chris Evans and Paul Rudd stepped out of the Marvel universe and into the world of streaming television this year. On the Apple TV Plus limited series “Defending Jacob,” Evans inhabits the guilt and fear of a suburban district attorney who will stop at nothing to save his teenage son from what he believes to be a wrongful murder charge. And Rudd goes much bigger than Ant-Man in Netflix’s “Living With Yourself,” playing both a dour copywriter and his charming clone. They talked to each other over video chat for Variety’s Actors on Actors issue.
Paul Rudd: What was that like, playing a dad?
Chris Evans: Yeah, I don’t have a kid, but it was a really enjoyable role to play. I had a wonderful relationship with my father. If you have to find parallels in your own life to draw from, what a lovely avenue to...
Paul Rudd: What was that like, playing a dad?
Chris Evans: Yeah, I don’t have a kid, but it was a really enjoyable role to play. I had a wonderful relationship with my father. If you have to find parallels in your own life to draw from, what a lovely avenue to...
- 6/25/2020
- by Ramin Setoodeh
- Variety Film + TV
Defending Jacob creator, executive producer and showrunner Mark Bomback appeared as part of Apple TV+’s session at Deadline’s Contenders Television livestream panel and revealed that his eight-hour limited-series adaptation of William Landay’s novel was originally meant to be a two-hour movie instead of a longform TV show.
He said that since studios weren’t looking for this kind of material much anymore, he decided instead to tackle the book for TV — a first for this prolific screenwriter behind such blockbusters as the recent Planet of the Apes franchise.
Bomback was joined in the show, and on this panel, by Oscar-nominated director Morten Tyldum and actor Jaeden Martell. Martell plays Jacob, the son of an assistant Da (played by Chris Evans) who is accused of murdering a classmate.
“We wanted Jacob to be a mystery, an enigma,” Tyldum said, “so that no one, his parents or the audience,...
He said that since studios weren’t looking for this kind of material much anymore, he decided instead to tackle the book for TV — a first for this prolific screenwriter behind such blockbusters as the recent Planet of the Apes franchise.
Bomback was joined in the show, and on this panel, by Oscar-nominated director Morten Tyldum and actor Jaeden Martell. Martell plays Jacob, the son of an assistant Da (played by Chris Evans) who is accused of murdering a classmate.
“We wanted Jacob to be a mystery, an enigma,” Tyldum said, “so that no one, his parents or the audience,...
- 6/20/2020
- by Pete Hammond
- Deadline Film + TV
Michelle Dockery, a four-time lead actress Emmy nominee for her performance as Lady Mary Crawley on PBS’ “Downton Abbey” and for the Netflix Western miniseries “Godless,” takes on a role that might be called a mother’s worst nightmare on the crime miniseries “Defending Jacob.” The Apple TV+ program is based on the best-selling book by William Landay about a married couple whose 14-year-old son is charged with a stabbing death of a classmate who was bullying him.
The British actress says, “For some reason for the last few years I’ve been playing Americans much more. I enjoy it. I enjoy doing the accent.” As she started to read the first three or four episode “Defending Jacob” scripts, she was hooked. She says, “I thought this is going to be a tough challenge. And I do like a challenge. I was so enthralled by the journey of the family...
The British actress says, “For some reason for the last few years I’ve been playing Americans much more. I enjoy it. I enjoy doing the accent.” As she started to read the first three or four episode “Defending Jacob” scripts, she was hooked. She says, “I thought this is going to be a tough challenge. And I do like a challenge. I was so enthralled by the journey of the family...
- 6/1/2020
- by Susan Wloszczyna
- Gold Derby
Spoiler Alert Do not read if you have not yet watched the series finale of “Defending Jacob,” streaming now on Apple TV Plus.
Apple TV Plus’ adaptation of “Defending Jacob” ends with closure regarding the murder case in which the titular character is embroiled, but not necessarily justice, let alone the ultimate truth.
Jacob Barber (Jaeden Martell) goes free after being on trial for murdering his school mate Ben Rifkin (Liam Kilbreth) because local sex offender Leonard Patz (Daniel Henshall) confesses to the crime in what appears to be a suicide note. But he didn’t actually kill himself over guilt: He was murdered when Jacob’s grandfather (J.K. Simmons) put a hit out on him to save his grandson a life in prison, like the one he is living.
And after all Laurie Barber (Michelle Dockery), Jacob’s mother, has seen and heard, she begins to question whether or not her son is guilty,...
Apple TV Plus’ adaptation of “Defending Jacob” ends with closure regarding the murder case in which the titular character is embroiled, but not necessarily justice, let alone the ultimate truth.
Jacob Barber (Jaeden Martell) goes free after being on trial for murdering his school mate Ben Rifkin (Liam Kilbreth) because local sex offender Leonard Patz (Daniel Henshall) confesses to the crime in what appears to be a suicide note. But he didn’t actually kill himself over guilt: He was murdered when Jacob’s grandfather (J.K. Simmons) put a hit out on him to save his grandson a life in prison, like the one he is living.
And after all Laurie Barber (Michelle Dockery), Jacob’s mother, has seen and heard, she begins to question whether or not her son is guilty,...
- 5/29/2020
- by Danielle Turchiano
- Variety Film + TV
Spoiler Alert: Do not read if you have not yet watched “Defending Jacob,” streaming now on Apple TV Plus.
William Landay’s 2012 novel “Defending Jacob” never definitively answered whether or not the titular character committed the crimes of which he was accused, but it did provide a close-ended story for the teenager, who was killed in a car crash his mother caused. Mark Bomback’s limited series adaptation for Apple TV Plus left even more open to interpretation.
Laurie Barber (played by Michelle Dockery), wracked with nerves and fear that her son may have actually stabbed his classmate to death, sped down a slippery road and crashed the car that carried her son Jacob (Jaeden Martell) as a passenger. But in the show, both of them lived, even if they were both a little worse for wear. She suffered a head injury and some memory loss of events of that day,...
William Landay’s 2012 novel “Defending Jacob” never definitively answered whether or not the titular character committed the crimes of which he was accused, but it did provide a close-ended story for the teenager, who was killed in a car crash his mother caused. Mark Bomback’s limited series adaptation for Apple TV Plus left even more open to interpretation.
Laurie Barber (played by Michelle Dockery), wracked with nerves and fear that her son may have actually stabbed his classmate to death, sped down a slippery road and crashed the car that carried her son Jacob (Jaeden Martell) as a passenger. But in the show, both of them lived, even if they were both a little worse for wear. She suffered a head injury and some memory loss of events of that day,...
- 5/29/2020
- by Danielle Turchiano
- Variety Film + TV
Apple TV+ has released a sneak peek of Friday’s upcoming episode of “Defending Jacob,” and it involves a tense run-in with Andy Barber’s estranged father, who is in prison for murder.
J.K. Simmons plays Billy Barber opposite Chris Evans, who stars in the series as Assistant District Attorney Andy Barber. Andy’s career is derailed after his son, Jacob, is accused of murdering a classmate. Things become more complicated once it is revealed that the family already has another member in prison for murder and sexual assault.
In the upcoming fifth episode, “Visitors,” out May 8th on Apple TV+, Andy (Evans) visits his father Billy (Simmons) in prison for the first time since he was a kid — and later learns some troubling information from Jacob’s friends Derek and Sarah.
Also Read: 'Snowpiercer': The Class Struggle Is a Literal Cold War in Official Trailer (Video)
The...
J.K. Simmons plays Billy Barber opposite Chris Evans, who stars in the series as Assistant District Attorney Andy Barber. Andy’s career is derailed after his son, Jacob, is accused of murdering a classmate. Things become more complicated once it is revealed that the family already has another member in prison for murder and sexual assault.
In the upcoming fifth episode, “Visitors,” out May 8th on Apple TV+, Andy (Evans) visits his father Billy (Simmons) in prison for the first time since he was a kid — and later learns some troubling information from Jacob’s friends Derek and Sarah.
Also Read: 'Snowpiercer': The Class Struggle Is a Literal Cold War in Official Trailer (Video)
The...
- 5/7/2020
- by Margeaux Sippell
- The Wrap
Here is a wrap up of all the news you need to know from Thursday, May 7, 2020.
NBC's The Blacklist has a new series regular for Season 8.
The hit drama has promoted Laura Sohn, who recurs as FBI Agent Alina Park.
TV Line first reported the news.
Sohn arrived on The Blacklist Season 7 Episode 7, and took over the job left by the exit of Mozhan Marno's Samar.
Alina quickly became a fan-favorite, and we're sure she will continue to make a big impact on Season 8.
The series was forced to shut down due to the Coronavirus pandemic, with multiple episodes unproduced.
In order to bring the season to a close, the episode will feature a mix of live-action and animated scenes.
Yes, really.
It will certainly make for a different kind of finale.
Meanwhile, Apple TV+ drama Defending Jacob is set to introduce a key recurring player this week in J.K. Simmons.
NBC's The Blacklist has a new series regular for Season 8.
The hit drama has promoted Laura Sohn, who recurs as FBI Agent Alina Park.
TV Line first reported the news.
Sohn arrived on The Blacklist Season 7 Episode 7, and took over the job left by the exit of Mozhan Marno's Samar.
Alina quickly became a fan-favorite, and we're sure she will continue to make a big impact on Season 8.
The series was forced to shut down due to the Coronavirus pandemic, with multiple episodes unproduced.
In order to bring the season to a close, the episode will feature a mix of live-action and animated scenes.
Yes, really.
It will certainly make for a different kind of finale.
Meanwhile, Apple TV+ drama Defending Jacob is set to introduce a key recurring player this week in J.K. Simmons.
- 5/7/2020
- by Paul Dailly
- TVfanatic
In reporting Apple’s Q2 earnings last week, CEO Tim Cook revealed “an all-time record in Services,” noting that Apple TV+ was doing well as more people watched content while under lockdown. The streamer’s latest original scripted series, Defending Jacob, might be a prime example.
Apple is known for closely guarding information, and, like other streamers, Apple TV+ has not released viewership data, with only a few snippets surfacing last fall about how viewers consumed the service’s offerings during its November launch weekend. Apple TV+ debuted four original live-action scripted series at launch, led by flagship The Morning Show, the service’s most award-recognized show, which also is believed to be its most popular original.
Apple TV+ appears to have had its biggest debut since then with the new limited series Defending Jacob, starring Chris Evans. According to sources, Defending Jacob ranks among the top three series premieres...
Apple is known for closely guarding information, and, like other streamers, Apple TV+ has not released viewership data, with only a few snippets surfacing last fall about how viewers consumed the service’s offerings during its November launch weekend. Apple TV+ debuted four original live-action scripted series at launch, led by flagship The Morning Show, the service’s most award-recognized show, which also is believed to be its most popular original.
Apple TV+ appears to have had its biggest debut since then with the new limited series Defending Jacob, starring Chris Evans. According to sources, Defending Jacob ranks among the top three series premieres...
- 5/7/2020
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
“It’s just not the kind of story that is easily made into a film anymore, but while I was reading it, I kept on thinking this would make an incredible limited series,” screenwriter Mark Bomback reveals in his exclusive interview with Gold Derby (watch the video above) about the origins of the new limited series based on the 2012 novel of the same name by William Landay. Bomback received the book three years ago from production company Anonymous Content, which had optioned it for film after “Harry Potter” screenwriter Steve Kloves had failed to adapt it for previous rights holder Warner Bros. Likening it to the 2003’s Oscar-winning “Mystic River,” Bomback responded to how “Defending Jacob” had “the twists and turns of a great thriller, but also really is about what it means to be a human being.”
SEEthe list of shows not returning for 2020 Emmy eligibility.
A screenwriter known for the “Die Hard,...
SEEthe list of shows not returning for 2020 Emmy eligibility.
A screenwriter known for the “Die Hard,...
- 4/29/2020
- by Riley Chow
- Gold Derby
Apple TV+’s “Defending Jacob” premiered Friday, and the family crime drama series stars Chris Evans as Andy Barber, an assistant district attorney who finds himself embroiled in his own case when his 14-year-old son, Jacob, is accused of murdering a classmate.
TheWrap spoke with creator, executive producer and showrunner Mark Bomback about working with Evans in the actor’s own hometown of Boston, Massachusetts, and of digging deeper into the character first written by William Landay in his 2012 novel on which the show is based.
“This is definitely his world,” Bomback said of Evans. “It’s funny, I live in Westchester County, New York, and I grew up in this area. It’s probably the closest vibe-wise to that part of the world, so in a sense, I was writing a version of that part of the world that was really a hybrid of Westchester and suburban Boston. Chris...
TheWrap spoke with creator, executive producer and showrunner Mark Bomback about working with Evans in the actor’s own hometown of Boston, Massachusetts, and of digging deeper into the character first written by William Landay in his 2012 novel on which the show is based.
“This is definitely his world,” Bomback said of Evans. “It’s funny, I live in Westchester County, New York, and I grew up in this area. It’s probably the closest vibe-wise to that part of the world, so in a sense, I was writing a version of that part of the world that was really a hybrid of Westchester and suburban Boston. Chris...
- 4/28/2020
- by Margeaux Sippell
- The Wrap
“It’s very intelligent and well done and thought-provoking,” says J.K. Simmons, who inhabits a key role in the Apple TV+ limited series “Defending Jacob,” which is now streaming the firstthree episodes. But he also adds, “Yeah, difficult subject mater.” Watch our exclusive video interview above.
Based on a novel by William Landay, the plot revolves around Jacob, a 14-year-old boy (Jaeden Martell) who lives in a well-off Boston suburb and is accused of stabbing a classmate to death. Complicating matters is that his father, Andy (Chris Evans), is the town’s assistant district attorney. Complicating matters even further is that his grandfather (Simmons) has been serving time in jail for a very long time. His crime? Raping and stabbing a community college student and hiding her body in a boarded-up row house. Up until now, Jacob and his mom (Michelle Dockery of “Downton Abbey”) have not known of his existence.
Based on a novel by William Landay, the plot revolves around Jacob, a 14-year-old boy (Jaeden Martell) who lives in a well-off Boston suburb and is accused of stabbing a classmate to death. Complicating matters is that his father, Andy (Chris Evans), is the town’s assistant district attorney. Complicating matters even further is that his grandfather (Simmons) has been serving time in jail for a very long time. His crime? Raping and stabbing a community college student and hiding her body in a boarded-up row house. Up until now, Jacob and his mom (Michelle Dockery of “Downton Abbey”) have not known of his existence.
- 4/27/2020
- by Susan Wloszczyna
- Gold Derby
Chris Evans’ latest character may not throw around a star-spangled shield, but he’ll try to be a hero all the same.
Evans — best known for his work in those little-seen, indie Marvel movies — headlines the Apple TV+ miniseries Defending Jacob, which dropped its first three episodes on Friday. (Subsequent installments will be released weekly.)
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Before you give us your thoughts on Episode...
Evans — best known for his work in those little-seen, indie Marvel movies — headlines the Apple TV+ miniseries Defending Jacob, which dropped its first three episodes on Friday. (Subsequent installments will be released weekly.)
More from TVLineFraggle Rock Returns on Apple TV+ With New Episodes — Watch TeaserCentral Park: Kristen Bell, Josh Gad and More Get Animated in Apple TV+ TrailerApple TV+ for Free: Dickinson, Servant, For All Mankind, Snoopy and More
Before you give us your thoughts on Episode...
- 4/24/2020
- TVLine.com
Meet the Barbers. Andrew (Chris Evans) is a hotshot assistant district attorney, crusading for truth and justice in Newton, Massachusetts. Laurie (Michelle Dockery) is the face of Children’s Cottage, a school dedicated to serving traumatized and abused kids in the greater Boston area. Their son, Jacob (Jaeden Martell), is a run-of-the-mill teenager — friends, video games, high school, an assortment of hoodies. He’s reed-thin and slightly nerdy, a tad socially awkward maybe, but no more so than most 14-year-old boys. They could be any upper-middle-class American family living in...
- 4/24/2020
- by David Fear
- Rollingstone.com
In another world, the Apple TV+ limited series Defending Jacob could've been a tense dramatic film with an action hero at the helm.
"It might have been a Harrison Ford film like 30 years ago," says showrunner Mark Bomback, "but it's just not the kind of thing we make right now."
After years in development as a film, the project pivoted to TV when Bomback signed on to adapt William Landay's novel of the same name into a limited series. The Dawn of the Planet of the Apes writer was looking to move into television ...
"It might have been a Harrison Ford film like 30 years ago," says showrunner Mark Bomback, "but it's just not the kind of thing we make right now."
After years in development as a film, the project pivoted to TV when Bomback signed on to adapt William Landay's novel of the same name into a limited series. The Dawn of the Planet of the Apes writer was looking to move into television ...
- 4/24/2020
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
If Apple TV+ is slightly on the back foot in the war of the streaming services it’s not for want of trying. With this latest crime drama it has definitely brought out the big guns – and it’s really paid off in terms of quality. On a more widely subscribed service, Defending Jacob could easily become the next hot button series garnering buzz like Bodyguard or Apple Tree Yard.
Based on the best selling novel by William Landay, Defending Jacob is a clever and complex courtroom drama packed with ambiguities and moral quandaries that makes some smart deviations from the novel and adding extra layers of tension in the best possible way.
Framed around a court hearing to determine whether or not an unspecified case should be pursued, Defending Jacob stars Captain America’s Chris Evans as Andy Barber, an assistant district attorney whose 14-year-old son Jacob has been...
Based on the best selling novel by William Landay, Defending Jacob is a clever and complex courtroom drama packed with ambiguities and moral quandaries that makes some smart deviations from the novel and adding extra layers of tension in the best possible way.
Framed around a court hearing to determine whether or not an unspecified case should be pursued, Defending Jacob stars Captain America’s Chris Evans as Andy Barber, an assistant district attorney whose 14-year-old son Jacob has been...
- 4/24/2020
- by Rosie Fletcher
- Den of Geek
How well can a parent ever really know a child?
Although Apple TV Plus’ new limited series “Defending Jacob” has a murder mystery at the center of the story, it is the larger, more relatable themes about how love for a family member can be tested that writer and executive producer Mark Bomback was most interested in exploring.
“I have four children and I live in the suburbs of New York, and my central preoccupation is how much I’m succeeding or messing up with raising my kids. Really the mysteries that come with being a parent is a subject that I’m fascinated with, so the fact that that was the underlying human story in this particular thriller, that was what really put it over the top,” he tells Variety.
Bomback created his eight-episode series by adapting William Landay’s 2012 novel of the same name. The novel was told in the past tense,...
Although Apple TV Plus’ new limited series “Defending Jacob” has a murder mystery at the center of the story, it is the larger, more relatable themes about how love for a family member can be tested that writer and executive producer Mark Bomback was most interested in exploring.
“I have four children and I live in the suburbs of New York, and my central preoccupation is how much I’m succeeding or messing up with raising my kids. Really the mysteries that come with being a parent is a subject that I’m fascinated with, so the fact that that was the underlying human story in this particular thriller, that was what really put it over the top,” he tells Variety.
Bomback created his eight-episode series by adapting William Landay’s 2012 novel of the same name. The novel was told in the past tense,...
- 4/22/2020
- by Danielle Turchiano
- Variety Film + TV
In the rich tradition of “The Rainmaker,” “Primal Fear,” and any other legal drama where an attorney goes above and beyond the call of duty for their client, Apple TV+ ushers in the 2020 version, “Defending Jacob.” Filled with smart-sounding legalese and impassioned pleas for justice, the eight-part limited series based on William Landay’s completely fictitious 2012 novel sees the tables turned on a Massachusetts district attorney whose son is accused of killing another teen boy. Freed from the moral shackles of his role as state prosecutor, Andrew Barber can — and will — do whatever it takes to prove his child’s innocence… even if he’s guilty.
Sound good? Well, it’s fine, but only if you’re able to appreciate the schlocky story for what it is, rather than the Emmy-worthy piece of prestige TV its big names and solemn tone imply. While the series touches on weighty themes — like genetic dispositions toward violence,...
Sound good? Well, it’s fine, but only if you’re able to appreciate the schlocky story for what it is, rather than the Emmy-worthy piece of prestige TV its big names and solemn tone imply. While the series touches on weighty themes — like genetic dispositions toward violence,...
- 4/22/2020
- by Ben Travers
- Indiewire
“Defending Jacob,” Mark Bomback’s miniseries adaptation of the 2012 William Landay novel, is about parents’ dreams for their kids, but it’s also about the pictures parents paint for themselves of their kids. Mothers and fathers alike draw in their minds idealized portraits of not only who their children are or who they’re going to be, but who they were. So, what happens when your child is accused of murder and is perceived as a monster by the general public?
Continue reading ‘Defending Jacob’: Chris Evans Can’t Rescue This Heavy-Handed Drama Series [Review] at The Playlist.
Continue reading ‘Defending Jacob’: Chris Evans Can’t Rescue This Heavy-Handed Drama Series [Review] at The Playlist.
- 4/14/2020
- by Andrew Crump
- The Playlist
The worst thing about Apple TV+'s new limited series Defending Jacob is that it feels like every other crime series we've seen before. The show, created by Mark Bomback and based on the book of the same name by William Landay, has all the hallmarks of a murder investigation, right down to the media
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Other Links From TVGuide.com Defending JacobChris EvansJaeden MartellMichelle DockeryCherry JonesJ.K. SimmonsMark Bomback...
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Other Links From TVGuide.com Defending JacobChris EvansJaeden MartellMichelle DockeryCherry JonesJ.K. SimmonsMark Bomback...
- 4/13/2020
- by Kaitlin Thomas
- TVGuide - Breaking News
Bad Education
Embezzlement, corruption, and a student journalist: one school district’s scandal won’t stay hidden. Based on real events, superintendent Frank Tassone (portrayed Hugh Jackman) scrambles to protect the district’s successes – and himself. But he’s not the only one implicated; Pam Gluckin (portrayed by Allison Janney) is also under fire. The clip teases a tearful Pam saying, “I’m ashamed of my actions. I’m ashamed of myself. There’s no excuse for it.” To which Ray Romano’s character deadpans, “Well, the sociopathy.” (Apr. 25)
Defending...
Embezzlement, corruption, and a student journalist: one school district’s scandal won’t stay hidden. Based on real events, superintendent Frank Tassone (portrayed Hugh Jackman) scrambles to protect the district’s successes – and himself. But he’s not the only one implicated; Pam Gluckin (portrayed by Allison Janney) is also under fire. The clip teases a tearful Pam saying, “I’m ashamed of my actions. I’m ashamed of myself. There’s no excuse for it.” To which Ray Romano’s character deadpans, “Well, the sociopathy.” (Apr. 25)
Defending...
- 3/28/2020
- by Natalli Amato
- Rollingstone.com
The last time Chris Evans starred in a murder mystery, his character walked away in handcuffs, but on Apple TV+'s new series Defending Jacob, the actor is taking on a more protective role. Evans stars alongside his Knives Out costar, Jaeden Martell, and Downton Abbey's Michelle Dockery on the miniseries based on the novel of the same name by William Landay.
The eight-episode miniseries follows assistant district attorney Andy Barber (Evans) as his quiet, suburban life is torn apart when his son, Jacob (Martell), is accused of brutally murdering his high school classmate. Although Andy and his wife, Laurie (Dockery), believe in their son's innocence, damning evidence, their failing marriage, and the contempt of their neighbors force them to wonder how far they would go to protect their child. Judging by the preview, we're going to say pretty damn far.
Whew, we sure do love a thriller! The...
The eight-episode miniseries follows assistant district attorney Andy Barber (Evans) as his quiet, suburban life is torn apart when his son, Jacob (Martell), is accused of brutally murdering his high school classmate. Although Andy and his wife, Laurie (Dockery), believe in their son's innocence, damning evidence, their failing marriage, and the contempt of their neighbors force them to wonder how far they would go to protect their child. Judging by the preview, we're going to say pretty damn far.
Whew, we sure do love a thriller! The...
- 3/26/2020
- by Mekishana Pierre
- Popsugar.com
Apple TV+ has released a trailer for its upcoming series, Defending Jacob, which stars Chris Evans.
The series, based on the 2012 novel by William Landay, follows assistant district attorney Andy Barber (Evans), whose 14-year-old son Jacob (Jaeden Martell) is accused of murder. Michelle Dockery plays Laurie, Andy’s wife, and Cherry Jones, Pablo Schreiber and J. K. Simmons fill out the main cast. The stark trailer sets up the dramatic storyline, in which Andy and Laurie attempt to clear their child’s name at any cost.
The official synopsis notes,...
The series, based on the 2012 novel by William Landay, follows assistant district attorney Andy Barber (Evans), whose 14-year-old son Jacob (Jaeden Martell) is accused of murder. Michelle Dockery plays Laurie, Andy’s wife, and Cherry Jones, Pablo Schreiber and J. K. Simmons fill out the main cast. The stark trailer sets up the dramatic storyline, in which Andy and Laurie attempt to clear their child’s name at any cost.
The official synopsis notes,...
- 3/26/2020
- by Emily Zemler
- Rollingstone.com
Earlier in the year, the Chris Evans legal drama “Defending Jacob” announced a prime Emmy qualifying release date of April 24. And in spite of the current public health crisis that has seen television production shut down and the Emmy Fyc schedule go out the window, the splashy Apple TV+ series is dropped its first trailer today.
Based on the 2012 bestselling crime novel of the same name by William Landay, “Defending Jacob” tells the story of Massachusetts assistant district attorney Andy Barber (Evans) and what his family undergoes when his son, Jacob (Jaeden Martell) is accused of murdering a classmate. Michelle Dockery plays Evans’ wife, Laurie, who endures her own isolation and trauma in the wake of Jacob’s accusation.
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Based on the 2012 bestselling crime novel of the same name by William Landay, “Defending Jacob” tells the story of Massachusetts assistant district attorney Andy Barber (Evans) and what his family undergoes when his son, Jacob (Jaeden Martell) is accused of murdering a classmate. Michelle Dockery plays Evans’ wife, Laurie, who endures her own isolation and trauma in the wake of Jacob’s accusation.
More from IndieWire'Beastie Boys Story' Trailer: Spike Jonze Is Back in Theaters With IMAX Music Doc'Amazing Stories' Review: Reboot Premiere 'The Cellar' Is a Safe, Inoffensive Time Travel Tale...
- 3/25/2020
- by Kristen Lopez
- Indiewire
Non-Spoiler Alert: The creative team behind the AppleTV+ thriller series Defending Jacob say that reading William Landay’s 2012 novel of the same name on which the series is based — or even just Googling the plot — will not spoil the enjoyment of the series.
Of course, writer and executive producer Mark Bomback would prefer that TV watchers not go to Google before sitting down to watch the 8-episode series. However, he said “the truth is, I don’t want to spoil anything myself, other than to say that (reading a plot summary) would not tell you the ultimate plot of the series. You’d get sort of a version of events that would skew somewhat differently by the time you were done.”
Bomback appeared on today’s panel with Director/Ep Morton Tyldum, Ep and star Chris Evans via satellite from Boston, and cast members Michelle Dockery and Jaeden Martell, who...
Of course, writer and executive producer Mark Bomback would prefer that TV watchers not go to Google before sitting down to watch the 8-episode series. However, he said “the truth is, I don’t want to spoil anything myself, other than to say that (reading a plot summary) would not tell you the ultimate plot of the series. You’d get sort of a version of events that would skew somewhat differently by the time you were done.”
Bomback appeared on today’s panel with Director/Ep Morton Tyldum, Ep and star Chris Evans via satellite from Boston, and cast members Michelle Dockery and Jaeden Martell, who...
- 1/19/2020
- by Diane Haithman
- Deadline Film + TV
With the Emmy eligibility period ending on May 31, 2020, expect a cavalcade of prestige TV to debut this spring. At the 2020 TCA Winter Press Tour on Sunday in Pasadena, CA, Apple TV+ threw a contender in the ring for limited drama series by announcing the first three episodes of its starry crime show “Defending Jacob” will premiere on April 24.
Starring Chris Evans, Michelle Dockery, Jaeden Martell, Cherry Jones, and Pablo Schreiber, “Defending Jacob” is based on the 2012 bestselling crime novel by William Landay. Evans and Dockery play the parents of a 14-year-old boy (Martell) who is accused of murdering a classmate in a small Massachusetts town.
First optioned for a movie in 2012, showrunner Mark Bomback opted to turn the story into a limited series after seeing how the genre has developed into a outlet for incisive storytelling in the era of Peak TV. “Twenty or 30 years ago, this would have been a movie in a multiplex,...
Starring Chris Evans, Michelle Dockery, Jaeden Martell, Cherry Jones, and Pablo Schreiber, “Defending Jacob” is based on the 2012 bestselling crime novel by William Landay. Evans and Dockery play the parents of a 14-year-old boy (Martell) who is accused of murdering a classmate in a small Massachusetts town.
First optioned for a movie in 2012, showrunner Mark Bomback opted to turn the story into a limited series after seeing how the genre has developed into a outlet for incisive storytelling in the era of Peak TV. “Twenty or 30 years ago, this would have been a movie in a multiplex,...
- 1/19/2020
- by Ann Donahue
- Indiewire
Apple TV+’s new Chris Evans-led thriller Defending Jacob will debut this spring with a three-episode premiere, the company announced Sunday. The streaming service will drop the series’ first offerings on Friday, April 24, and new episodes will follow weekly thereafter.
Based on the best-selling novel of the same name by William Landay, the character-driven thriller will be a limited-series that unfolds around a shocking crime in a small Massachusetts town. It follows an assistant district attorney (Evans) who “finds himself torn between his sworn duty to uphold justice and his unconditional love for his son,” according to the streamer’s official description.
Based on the best-selling novel of the same name by William Landay, the character-driven thriller will be a limited-series that unfolds around a shocking crime in a small Massachusetts town. It follows an assistant district attorney (Evans) who “finds himself torn between his sworn duty to uphold justice and his unconditional love for his son,” according to the streamer’s official description.
- 1/19/2020
- TVLine.com
Apple TV Plus announced the premiere dates for a number of upcoming series, including Steven Spielberg’s “Amazing Stories.”
“Amazing Stories,” a reimagining of the original anthology series, will debut five episodes on Mar. 6. One of these is “The Rift,” a first look from which can be seen above, that stars Kerry Lynn Bishe, Whitney Coleman, Trisha Mashburn, Austin Stowell, Edward Burns and Juliana Canfield and was directed by Mark Mylod.
“‘Amazing Stories’ is a beloved show that has captured our imaginations, and we couldn’t be more excited to share its next thrilling iteration with a global audience of all ages on Apple TV Plus,” said Matt Cherniss, head of development for Apple TV Plus.
Eddy Kitsis and Adam Horowitz are showrunners on the series. In addition to Mylod, episode directors include Chris Long, Michael Dinner, Susanna Fogel and Sylvain White.
“Alongside our partners Universal TV and our showrunners Eddy and Adam,...
“Amazing Stories,” a reimagining of the original anthology series, will debut five episodes on Mar. 6. One of these is “The Rift,” a first look from which can be seen above, that stars Kerry Lynn Bishe, Whitney Coleman, Trisha Mashburn, Austin Stowell, Edward Burns and Juliana Canfield and was directed by Mark Mylod.
“‘Amazing Stories’ is a beloved show that has captured our imaginations, and we couldn’t be more excited to share its next thrilling iteration with a global audience of all ages on Apple TV Plus,” said Matt Cherniss, head of development for Apple TV Plus.
Eddy Kitsis and Adam Horowitz are showrunners on the series. In addition to Mylod, episode directors include Chris Long, Michael Dinner, Susanna Fogel and Sylvain White.
“Alongside our partners Universal TV and our showrunners Eddy and Adam,...
- 1/19/2020
- by Danielle Turchiano
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Jaeden Martell, who is having a busy weekend between It Chapter Two opening and Knives Out making its world premiere here at Tiff, has just joined the Highland Film Group feature Tunnels opposite Oscar winner Susan Sarandon.
Directed by John Krokidas (Kill Your Darlings) and written by Victoria Rose, the pic is set years after a school shooting and follows a grandmother (Sarandon) who raised the shooter. She finds an unlikely but wonderful friendship in a bullied teenage boy (Martell) whose brother was one of the victims. Through each other, these two outsiders find redemption against the backdrop of a town still grieving. With their strength and ability to forgive, they help one another heal.
Colin Bates and Michael Jefferson (Son of the South) will produce under the Lucidity Entertainment banner (Southland) alongside Circle of Confusion’s Matt Smith (Maleficent) and Brad Mendelsohn (Daisy Jones and the...
Directed by John Krokidas (Kill Your Darlings) and written by Victoria Rose, the pic is set years after a school shooting and follows a grandmother (Sarandon) who raised the shooter. She finds an unlikely but wonderful friendship in a bullied teenage boy (Martell) whose brother was one of the victims. Through each other, these two outsiders find redemption against the backdrop of a town still grieving. With their strength and ability to forgive, they help one another heal.
Colin Bates and Michael Jefferson (Son of the South) will produce under the Lucidity Entertainment banner (Southland) alongside Circle of Confusion’s Matt Smith (Maleficent) and Brad Mendelsohn (Daisy Jones and the...
- 9/7/2019
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Chris Evans paid a visit to his hometown for a special reunion as Avengers: Endgame was racking up $2 billion at the worldwide box office.
The 37-year-old actor stopped by Sudbury, Massachusetts on Saturday to reunite with some of his childhood friends for his 20-year high school reunion, according to Boston.com.
Evans mingled with his former Lincoln-Sudbury Regional High School classmates at Conrad’s Restaurant, according to the outlet.
Donna Scott, one of the managers at the restaurant, told Boston.com the actor appeared to be having a good time.
“Many people wanted to take pictures with him,” Scott said.
The 37-year-old actor stopped by Sudbury, Massachusetts on Saturday to reunite with some of his childhood friends for his 20-year high school reunion, according to Boston.com.
Evans mingled with his former Lincoln-Sudbury Regional High School classmates at Conrad’s Restaurant, according to the outlet.
Donna Scott, one of the managers at the restaurant, told Boston.com the actor appeared to be having a good time.
“Many people wanted to take pictures with him,” Scott said.
- 5/7/2019
- by Alexia Fernandez
- PEOPLE.com
Daniel Henshall and Toby Wallace in ‘Acute Misfortune’
Daniel Henshall plays one of the most challenging roles of his career as gun-toting, manipulative and alcohol and drug-fueled painter Adam Cullen in Acute Misfortune.
Yet when the director Thomas M. Wright sent the actor the source material – Erik Jensen’s book Acute Misfortune: The Life and Death of Adam Cullen – four years ago, initially he had his doubts.
“I feared the film would sensationalise Adam and his poor behaviour,” Henshall tells If from New York, where he now lives with his wife. “He could be very charming but I did not particularly like the character.”
Wright, who co-wrote the screenplay with Jensen, quickly convinced him otherwise, explaining the film would look at issues such as acclaim and identity, toxic masculinity and how deeply troubled people can create great art.
Romper Stomper’s Toby Wallace plays Jensen, who was an ambitious 19-year-old...
Daniel Henshall plays one of the most challenging roles of his career as gun-toting, manipulative and alcohol and drug-fueled painter Adam Cullen in Acute Misfortune.
Yet when the director Thomas M. Wright sent the actor the source material – Erik Jensen’s book Acute Misfortune: The Life and Death of Adam Cullen – four years ago, initially he had his doubts.
“I feared the film would sensationalise Adam and his poor behaviour,” Henshall tells If from New York, where he now lives with his wife. “He could be very charming but I did not particularly like the character.”
Wright, who co-wrote the screenplay with Jensen, quickly convinced him otherwise, explaining the film would look at issues such as acclaim and identity, toxic masculinity and how deeply troubled people can create great art.
Romper Stomper’s Toby Wallace plays Jensen, who was an ambitious 19-year-old...
- 4/26/2019
- by The IF Team
- IF.com.au
In today’s TV news roundup, the third season of “Sneaky Pete” sets a third season premiere date and Apple adds series regulars to Chris Evans’ “Defending Jacob.”
Dates
The ten-episode second season of “Pose” will debut on Sunday, June 9 at 9 p.m. Et/Pt on FX. Season 2 flashes forward in time to 1990. On the heels of the ballroom community establishing itself in pop culture and going mainstream, the House of Evangelista is forced to reevaluate their goals. Meanwhile, the AIDS crisis worsens and the reaction from a group of activists reaches a fever pitch. The series features the largest cast of transgender actors in series regular roles, as well as the largest recurring cast of Lgbtq actors ever for a scripted series. The cast includes: Mj Rodriguez, Dominique Jackson, Indya Moore, Hailie Sahar, and Angelica Ross, who co-star alongside Billy Porter, Charlayne Woodard, Ryan Jamaal Swain, Dyllón Burnside and Angel Bismark Curiel.
Dates
The ten-episode second season of “Pose” will debut on Sunday, June 9 at 9 p.m. Et/Pt on FX. Season 2 flashes forward in time to 1990. On the heels of the ballroom community establishing itself in pop culture and going mainstream, the House of Evangelista is forced to reevaluate their goals. Meanwhile, the AIDS crisis worsens and the reaction from a group of activists reaches a fever pitch. The series features the largest cast of transgender actors in series regular roles, as well as the largest recurring cast of Lgbtq actors ever for a scripted series. The cast includes: Mj Rodriguez, Dominique Jackson, Indya Moore, Hailie Sahar, and Angelica Ross, who co-star alongside Billy Porter, Charlayne Woodard, Ryan Jamaal Swain, Dyllón Burnside and Angel Bismark Curiel.
- 4/8/2019
- by Jordan Moreau
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Apple’s Defending Jacob has rounded out its series regular cast as production gets underway in Boston, we hear. Cherry Jones, Pablo Schreiber, Betty Gabriel and Sakina Jaffrey have been cast opposite Chris Evans, Michelle Dockery and Jaeden Martell in the limited drama series based on William Landay’s bestselling novel. The project hails from Paramount Television and Anonymous Content.
Created and written by Mark Bomback and directed by Morten Tyldum, the limited series is described as a character-driven thriller based on Landay’s 2012 novel published by Random House. The book tells the story of a father, Andy Barber (Evans), dealing with the accusation that his son, Jacob (Martell), is a 14-year-old murderer.
Jones will play Joanna Klein, a top defense lawyer in the area. Schreiber will portray Neal Logiudice, another Assistant District Attorney...
Created and written by Mark Bomback and directed by Morten Tyldum, the limited series is described as a character-driven thriller based on Landay’s 2012 novel published by Random House. The book tells the story of a father, Andy Barber (Evans), dealing with the accusation that his son, Jacob (Martell), is a 14-year-old murderer.
Jones will play Joanna Klein, a top defense lawyer in the area. Schreiber will portray Neal Logiudice, another Assistant District Attorney...
- 4/5/2019
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: In a surprise deal that could represent a shift within the publishing industry, Blackstone Publishing — the largest independent publisher in the multi-billion dollar audiobook business — has set up a partnership with The Story Factory to expand in the print and e-book markets. The centerpiece of the deal: Blackstone is making a three-author deal with New York Times bestselling and two-time Edgar Award-winning Steve Hamilton, five-time New York Times bestselling and four-time Edgar Award-nominated Reed Farrel Coleman, and Edgar Award-winning Meg Gardiner. All three authors, who are Story Factory clients, are leaving Penguin Random House to join Blackstone.
The partners said that at a time when even well-established authors are seeing advances and promotional budgets slashed, the three authors will receive career best paydays in a deal in the seven figures. The authors get creative and promotional approvals throughout the publishing process, and guaranteed publicity budget for each book launch.
The partners said that at a time when even well-established authors are seeing advances and promotional budgets slashed, the three authors will receive career best paydays in a deal in the seven figures. The authors get creative and promotional approvals throughout the publishing process, and guaranteed publicity budget for each book launch.
- 4/1/2019
- by Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline Film + TV
Downton Abbey alumna Michelle Dockery and It star Jaeden Martell are set as leads opposite Chris Evans in Defending Jacob, Apple’s limited drama series based on William Landay’s bestselling novel, from Paramount Television and Anonymous Content.
Created and written by Mark Bomback and directed by Morten Tyldum, the limited drama series is described as a a gripping, character-driven thriller based on Landay’s 2012 novel published by Random House. The book tells the story of a father, Andy Barber (Evans), dealing with the accusation that his son, Jacob (Martell), is a 14-year-old murderer.
Dockery will play Laurie Barber, the wife of Andy Barber (Evans) and mother of Jacob (Martell).
Bomback,who also will serve as showrunner, Evans and Tyldum executive produce with Rosalie Swedlin and Adam Shulman for Anonymous Content.
Dockery is known for her role as Lady Mary Crawley in Downton Abbey, and is reprising the role in...
Created and written by Mark Bomback and directed by Morten Tyldum, the limited drama series is described as a a gripping, character-driven thriller based on Landay’s 2012 novel published by Random House. The book tells the story of a father, Andy Barber (Evans), dealing with the accusation that his son, Jacob (Martell), is a 14-year-old murderer.
Dockery will play Laurie Barber, the wife of Andy Barber (Evans) and mother of Jacob (Martell).
Bomback,who also will serve as showrunner, Evans and Tyldum executive produce with Rosalie Swedlin and Adam Shulman for Anonymous Content.
Dockery is known for her role as Lady Mary Crawley in Downton Abbey, and is reprising the role in...
- 3/20/2019
- by Nellie Andreeva and Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
“Downton Abbey” alum Michelle Dockery and “It” star Jaeden Martell have signed on for lead roles in the Apple limited series “Defending Jacob,” Variety has learned.
They join previously announced series lead Chris Evans. The series is based on the 2012 best-selling novel of the same name by William Landay. It tells the story of Andy Barber (Evans), a father whose 14 year old son Jacob (Martell) is accused of murder. Dockery will star as Laurie Barber, Andy’s wife and Jacob’s mother.
In addition to her Emmy-nominated role as Lady Mary Crawley on “Downton Abbey,” Dockery also received an Emmy nod for her role in the Netflix western limited series “Godless.” She most recently starred in the TNT series “Good Behavior. She will also reprise her role for the “Downton Abbey” film, which is set to be released later this year, and will star in Guy Ritchie’s upcoming film “Bush.
They join previously announced series lead Chris Evans. The series is based on the 2012 best-selling novel of the same name by William Landay. It tells the story of Andy Barber (Evans), a father whose 14 year old son Jacob (Martell) is accused of murder. Dockery will star as Laurie Barber, Andy’s wife and Jacob’s mother.
In addition to her Emmy-nominated role as Lady Mary Crawley on “Downton Abbey,” Dockery also received an Emmy nod for her role in the Netflix western limited series “Godless.” She most recently starred in the TNT series “Good Behavior. She will also reprise her role for the “Downton Abbey” film, which is set to be released later this year, and will star in Guy Ritchie’s upcoming film “Bush.
- 3/20/2019
- by Joe Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
George Clooney and Grant Heslov’s Smokehouse Pictures is expanding its relationship with Paramount TV, signing a two-year first-look deal, which includes all television, digital and episodic projects from Smokehouse, excluding features.
Paramount TV and Smokehouse, along with Anonymous Content, are currently in post-production on Catch-22, the highly-anticipated, six-part series for Hulu. Based on Joseph Heller’s seminal novel, Catch-22 is executive produced by Clooney and Heslov for Smokehouse, along with Richard Brown and Steve Golin on behalf of Anonymous Content. Luke Davies and David Michôd are co-writers and executive producers for the series. Ellen Kuras serves as a producer and director along with Clooney and Heslov.
“We are thrilled to expand our relationship with Smokehouse. Our experience with them on ‘Catch-22’ has been an absolute joy,” said Nicole Clemens, President of Paramount Television. “They are first-class filmmakers and producers with a nose for unique stories with deep thematic resonance.
Paramount TV and Smokehouse, along with Anonymous Content, are currently in post-production on Catch-22, the highly-anticipated, six-part series for Hulu. Based on Joseph Heller’s seminal novel, Catch-22 is executive produced by Clooney and Heslov for Smokehouse, along with Richard Brown and Steve Golin on behalf of Anonymous Content. Luke Davies and David Michôd are co-writers and executive producers for the series. Ellen Kuras serves as a producer and director along with Clooney and Heslov.
“We are thrilled to expand our relationship with Smokehouse. Our experience with them on ‘Catch-22’ has been an absolute joy,” said Nicole Clemens, President of Paramount Television. “They are first-class filmmakers and producers with a nose for unique stories with deep thematic resonance.
- 10/8/2018
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
A lot of fans are speculating that Chris Evans’ career as Captain America is going to come to an end with Avengers 4. There’s a good chance that he’s not going to live through that adventure. But the career of Chris Evans will live on!
According to Variety, the actor has just signed up up star in a new limited series being developed for Apple called Defending Jacob. The series in based on a 2012 novel of the same name by William Landay and it tells the story of a father whose 14 year old son is accused of murder.
That certainly sounds like it’s going to be an intense story. The series was created, written, and executive produced by Mark Bomback, who will also serve as showrunner. This will also be the first TV series that Evans will star in since the 2000 mini-series Opposite Sex.
Here’s the description...
According to Variety, the actor has just signed up up star in a new limited series being developed for Apple called Defending Jacob. The series in based on a 2012 novel of the same name by William Landay and it tells the story of a father whose 14 year old son is accused of murder.
That certainly sounds like it’s going to be an intense story. The series was created, written, and executive produced by Mark Bomback, who will also serve as showrunner. This will also be the first TV series that Evans will star in since the 2000 mini-series Opposite Sex.
Here’s the description...
- 9/24/2018
- by Joey Paur
- GeekTyrant
Series based on William Landay’s novel of the about father whose son is accused of murder.
Apple has given a straight-to-series order to Defending Jacob, a crime thriller limited series to star The Avengers’ Chris Evans.
The series will be based on author William Landay’s 2012 novel of the same name about a father struggling with accusations that his 14-year-old son is a murderer. Mark Bomback, writer and executive producer on Dawn Of The Planet Of The Apes and War For The Planet Of The Apes, will be creator, writer and executive producer of the series and serve as showrunner.
Apple has given a straight-to-series order to Defending Jacob, a crime thriller limited series to star The Avengers’ Chris Evans.
The series will be based on author William Landay’s 2012 novel of the same name about a father struggling with accusations that his 14-year-old son is a murderer. Mark Bomback, writer and executive producer on Dawn Of The Planet Of The Apes and War For The Planet Of The Apes, will be creator, writer and executive producer of the series and serve as showrunner.
- 9/21/2018
- by John Hazelton
- ScreenDaily
Chris Evans has a lot of defending to do in his next project — but not the kind that requires a star-spangled shield.
The Captain America star will topline Defending Jacob, a limited-run drama ordered straight to series at Apple’s streaming service.
Described as a “character-driven thriller,” Defending Jacob is based on the best-selling 2012 novel by William Landay, which follows lawyer Andy Barber (Evans) in the aftermath of his 14-year-old son, Jacob, being accused of murder. The allegations have a major impact on Andy’s family, and he must reevaluate what he thinks he knows about his child.
Evans also...
The Captain America star will topline Defending Jacob, a limited-run drama ordered straight to series at Apple’s streaming service.
Described as a “character-driven thriller,” Defending Jacob is based on the best-selling 2012 novel by William Landay, which follows lawyer Andy Barber (Evans) in the aftermath of his 14-year-old son, Jacob, being accused of murder. The allegations have a major impact on Andy’s family, and he must reevaluate what he thinks he knows about his child.
Evans also...
- 9/20/2018
- TVLine.com
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