Andy Serkis” The Imaginarium and Urban Myth Films are partnering on a new TV iteration of The Wicker Man, having acquired the rights from Studiocanal to adapt the original cult horror film.

The prodcos are in early talks with potential broadcasters about the project.

The adaptation is a total reimagining of the 1973 folk horror film – which explored a community steeped in pagan folklore – as an eight-part television series and will be written by BAFTA award-winning writer Howard Overman (War of The Worlds, Misfits).

Overman commented: “I”m thrilled to have the opportunity to reimagine this hugely influential film. While the story is very different, the series explores the same themes of sacrifice, superstition and ritual that were at the core of the original film.”

Jonathan Cavendish, co-founder of The Imaginarium added: “Howard Overman has created a bold, shocking and unique series, pulling the themes and terrifying power of the original Wicker Man into a thrilling modern setting. We”re so excited to bring this reimagining of a classic to the screen with our friends at Urban Myth.”

Johnny Capps, executive producer at Urban Myth Films, said: “Working with The Imaginarium and with Howard on this adaptation has been a fantastic collaboration. We can”t wait to share Howard”s brilliantly original and bold take on this cult classic.”

The Imaginarium is currently in post-production on the feature Next Goal Wins, directed by Taika Waititi and starring Michael Fassbender and Elisabeth Moss, and their latest television series The Bastard Son & the Devil Himself, based on the best-selling YA trilogy by Sally Green, will be released on Netflix in October 2022.

Urban Myth Films is currently in production on the second series of The Lazarus Project for Sky, with the third series of Overman”s War of the Worlds out on Canal+ in France and about to be released on Disney Plus in the UK. STUDIOCANAL is a shareholder in Urban Myth Films.

The Wicker Man (film) image via Rialto Pictures/Studiocanal.