Apple TV+ is still playing catch-up when it comes to compelling original content that gets viewership on the level of Netflix, Disney+, Amazon, and other streaming platforms but has been seemingly focusing on quality over quantity. One example is their extremely popular sci-fi series Foundation based on the collection of novels from author Issac Asimov.
The streaming service is looking to adapt another sci-fi hallmark for an upcoming series, as Sam Esmail’s long-gestating television incarnation of Metropolis has finally found a home at Apple. They’ve given the project a series order with Esmail writing, producing, and will act as Metropolis’ showrunner. Apple made the announcement in a press release via Forbes.
It comes from Universal Studio Group’s UCP.
Based on Thea von Harbou’s 1925 novel, Metropolis was released in 1927 with legendary German director Fritz Lang putting together one of the most beloved pieces of cinema history. The landmark silent film helped inspire things like Star Wars, Blade Runner, The Fifth Element, and the Japanese anime/manga of the same name.
Metropolis presents a highly stylized futuristic city where a beautiful and cultured utopia exists above a bleak underworld populated by mistreated workers. When the privileged youth Freder (Gustav Fröhlich) discovers the grim scene under the city, he becomes intent on helping the workers. He befriends the rebellious teacher Maria (Brigitte Helm), but this puts him at odds with his authoritative father, leading to greater conflict.
It’s unclear if Esmail will attempt to modernize the visuals by taking an original route or attempt to incorporate designs from the original 1927 film.
SOURCE: FORBES
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