Netflix Boards CBC’s ‘Anne Of Green Gables’ Adaptation; Niki Caro To Helm Premiere
Netflix has joined with Canada’s CBC and Miranda de Pencier’s Northwood Entertainment on upcoming drama series Anne. From showrunner Moira Walley-Beckett, it’s based on Lucy Maud Montgomery’s classic novel Anne Of Green Gables and now has Niki Caro (Whale Rider) aboard to direct the two-hour premiere episode. The series was originally greenlit by the CBC in January and will air next year. Netflix has it globally outside Canada.
Breaking Bad alum Walley-Beckett is writing the entire first eight-episode season with de Pencier’s Northwood producing. A start date has been scheduled for next month in Ontario.
Set in 1890, the coming-of-age series will focus on a young girl who, after an abusive childhood spent in orphanages and the homes of strangers, is mistakenly sent to live with an elderly spinster and her aging brother. Over time — and thanks to her unique spirit, fierce intellect and brilliant imagination — 13-year-old Anne will transform their lives and eventually the small town in which they live.
The series will honor the foundation of the book, but will incorporate new adventures reflecting themes of identity, sexism, bullying, prejudice, and trusting one’s self.
Considered a Canadian treasure, the novel was riginally published in 1908 and has sold more than 50M copies. It’s been adapted myriad times for the stage, and big- and small-screens.
Walley-Beckett and de Pencier (Beginners) developed and will executive produce. Alison Owen and Debra Hayward are also attached to exec produce; and Susan Murdoch will produce.
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