It is officially the era of remakes, with "Ghostbusters" recently making its way to the big screen and "Power Rangers" heading to theaters next March. The television landscape is seemingly following in the steps of film, as another adaptation is arriving to Netflix very soon. The classic "Anne of Green Gables" by Canadian author Lucy Maud Montgomery will be heading to Netflix next year.
Fresh off its success with original titles such as "Jessica Jones," "Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt," and most recently, "Stranger Things," Netflix is adding another original title, this time in the form of "Anne." The Hollywood Reporter reveals that the upcoming TV adaptation of the 1908 classic has been picked up by the streaming company, which will be working with CBC to release the eight-episode series.
"Anne" is written by Moira Walley-Beckett, who won the 2014 Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Writing for a Drama Series for her work in "Breaking Bad." Critically acclaimed director and write of "Whale Rider" Niki Caro will direct the two-hour premiere episode, which will debut on Netflix and Canada's CBC. Wally-Beckett will serve as series showrunner and will executive produce alongside Miranda de Pencier ("Beginners"), Alison Owen ("Saving Mr. Banks"), and Debra Hayward ("Bridget Jones's Diary").
Netflix's Vice President for Content Elizabeth Bradley had nothing but praises for Walley-Beckett, describing her work on "Anne" as "riveting, funny, emotional, surprising, beautiful." She also credited Caro, who worked on the film "North Country" with Charlize Theron back in 2005 and most recently the upcoming "The Zookeeper's Wife" starring Jessica Chastain for the director's "extraordinary talent."
Deadline reports that "Anne" will be a coming-of-age series set in 1890, when a 13-year old orphan is accidentally sent to live with an old maid and her brother. While the series will pay tribute to the classic by Montgomery, it will tackle relevant issues today. These include bullying, sexism, prejudice, with themes of identity and trust.
While production has not disclosed which actors and actresses will be major players in the series, it seems like an original Netflix title worth watching out for. Check back for more updates on the upcoming "Anne of Green Gables" TV adaptation.