By MICHAEL GINGOLD
Here’s a twist: After a David Cronenberg remake directed by female twins, there’s one on the way about female twins–a new version of his 1988 classic.
Variety reports that Amazon Prime Video and Annapurna Television will produce a new series version of DEAD RINGERS, with Rachel Weisz attached to star. The actress, who came up with the idea for the update, will also be an executive producer on the project, which will be written by Alice Birch, who was Emmy-nominated this year for her work on Hulu’s NORMAL PEOPLE. Cronenberg’s film, based on Bari Wood and Jack Geasland’s novel TWINS which was in turn inspired by a real case, starred Jeremy Irons as identical siblings who share everything, including lovers, and fall into a downward spiral of psychosis. In the new version, the Mantle twins played by Weisz will similarly push societal and medical ethics as they crusade for women’s health care.
Though it will be a topical interpretation of the material, this DEAD RINGERS will pay equal attention to the genre elements. “As one of today’s most accomplished and versatile actresses, Rachel Weisz will captivate the Amazon Prime Video global audience with her take on these two ruthless, twisted characters,” says Amazon’s Albert Cheng. “This update to DEAD RINGERS explores the darker side of medicine, obsession and the human condition, making it a compelling addition to our slate of Amazon Original series.”
“This series is a thrilling tale about ambition, self-interest, and the manipulation of power,” adds Annapurna’s Sue Naegle. “Rachel’s unequivocal depth as an actor make her the perfect person to bring the new Mantle twins to life in Alice’s fresh take on the original, which will no doubt be even more twisted.” A director has yet to be named; might we suggest Karyn Kusama?
