LONDON, March 20 (Reuters) – The creative minds behind the iconic series “Game of Thrones,” David Benioff and D.B. Weiss, have returned to the small screen with an ambitious venture: the science-fiction spectacle “3 Body Problem.”
Teaming up with acclaimed “True Blood” writer-producer Alexander Woo, Benioff and Weiss are adapting Chinese author Liu Cixin’s acclaimed novel “The Three-Body Problem,” the inaugural installment of a gripping trilogy, into an exciting Netflix series.
“This project is arguably even more daring than ‘Game of Thrones’,” remarked John Bradley, known for his role as Samwell Tarly in the HBO hit and now portraying scientist-entrepreneur Jack Rooney.
“We’re exploring different timelines, from the past to the present, and even delving into a virtual reality realm, giving us the freedom to showcase anything imaginable. Our only boundaries were those of our own creativity, and that expansiveness is truly a boon,” he shared during the show’s premiere in London on Wednesday.
“3 Body Problem” commences in 1966 Beijing amid the tumultuous Cultural Revolution, embarking on a journey that traverses time, continents, and beyond. Set partially within a virtual reality domain, the series follows the actions of a Chinese astrophysics student whose decisions reverberate across the cosmos.
In contemporary Britain, a cadre of physicists known as “The Oxford Five” endeavors to decipher the mysteries behind global scientific anomalies. Their quest is aided by the unorthodox investigator Da Shi, portrayed by Benedict Wong, an operative affiliated with a clandestine intelligence agency.
The ensemble cast of the eight-episode series includes talents such as Eiza Gonzalez, Jovan Adepo, Jess Hong, and Jonathan Pryce, with Brad Pitt, Rosamund Pike, and Rian Johnson serving as executive producers.
“This narrative blends science with fiction, steering clear of fantastical aliens and far-flung planets adorned with outlandish costumes. Instead, it presents a palpable threat that humanity grapples with, showcasing our collective response to adversity,” remarked Pryce.
Regarding the adaptation of the trilogy’s remaining books, Liam Cunningham, another “Game of Thrones” veteran portraying Thomas Wade, mentioned that the creators are keeping their plans under wraps.
“I’ve caught wind of a few speculations,” he revealed.
“I relish the element of surprise, much like I did with ‘Game of Thrones.’ You didn’t know your fate until you read the script. It adds an unpredictable allure and sustains audience intrigue.”
“3 Body Problem” premieres on Netflix on March 21.
