ITV for new fantastical warrior drama

ITV has commissioned thirteen-part drama, Beowulf, an epic re-imagining of the famous Old English Poem.

Written and executive produced by Strike Back‘s James Dormer, Tim Haines (Primeval) and Katie Newman (Primeval: New World), the series follows mercenary warrior Beowulf on a personal journey that sees him slowly reconnect with the notion of family and home in the mythical Shieldlands.

Described as ‘a western set in the Dark Ages of Britain’s mythic past’ with a spectacle of human and fantastical creatures. Epic fights, thrilling chases, raids, celebrations and battles ensue in the drama.

The first episode sees Beowulf who, after spending many years wondering, returns to Herot to pay his respects to the recently deceased Thane, Hrothgar – the man who raised him. But when Herot is attacked by the terrifying monster Grendl, Beowulf has no choice but to hunt it down, winning favour with Herot’s new female Thane, and the wider community, in the process.

James Dormer who will write and executive produce said: “Hundreds of years ago our ancestors listened to the story of Beowulf because it was a great adventure story – it scared them, thrilled them, made them laugh and cry. But they also listened because they recognised themselves and their fears in it. By holding a mirror up to them this story helped define them and thus – us. So it’s incredibly exciting to have the opportunity to make it relevant again for a wide audience – to let them own it again. To let them see themselves in it.”

ITV’s Director of Drama Steve November said: “Beowulf is a series with a charismatic protagonist at its heart. Equally it’s a spirited and fascinating ensemble drama with each character taking their own emotional and sometimes perilous journey.  We’re delighted to be commissioning Beowulf and to be working with Tim Haines and his production team.”

Beowulf will begin filming on location in County Durham and Northumberland in April 2015.