Many a childhood remains irrevocably scarred by the 1978 film Watership Down. The original animated movie, based on the novel by Richard Adams and later turned into a TV series, tells the story of a group of rabbits encountering the horrors of hunger, war, dictatorship and death. So pretty dark for a bunny film.
And a whole new generation is set to have their childhoods ruined with the upcoming BBC-Netflix remake, which is being released this Christmas.
The two-part miniseries will premiere on BBC One and will be shown on Netflix worldwide.
There’s an absolutely star-studded cast, including: James McAvoy, Nicholas Hoult, John Boyega, Gemma Arterton, Olivia Colman, Daniel Kaluuya, Rosamund Pike, Peter Capaldi, Taron Egerton, Gemma Chan and Sir Ben Kingsley. Whew! *Gulps a litre of water from thirst*
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The BBC said in a statement: “Adapted for the screen by Tom Bidwell (My Mad Fat Diary), Watership Down uses Richard Adams’ bestselling novel as its source to bring an innovative interpretation to the beloved story.
“Set in the idyllic rural landscape of southern England, this tale of adventure, courage and survival follows a band of rabbits on their flight from the intrusion of man and the certain destruction of their home.
“Led by a stout-hearted pair of brothers, they journey forth from their native Sandleford Warren through the harrowing trials posed by predators and adversaries, towards a promised land and a more perfect society.”
The BBC has also released these first-look images from the upcoming programme, which look suitably bleak (particularly the last one):
The forthcoming adaptation will feature an original song by Sam Smith, called Fire On Fire.
The Oscar-winner said: “I am so excited and honoured to be a part of this new adaptation of Watership Down. This story is so powerful and timeless, and it has been thrilling to work with Noam and his team and the incredible Steve Mac on this song for it. I hope everyone loves it as much as I do.”
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(Images: BBC)
