It's great to see more and more entertainment properties these days being derived from books. The FX series "Justified" uses the work of Elmore Leonard; the Oscar-winning drama "Crazy Heart" was derived from Thomas Cobb's excellent novel and now, "Boardwalk Empire," a new HBO series will use Nelson Johnson's "Boardwalk Empire: The Birth, High Times, and Corruption of Atlantic City" as its framework.
The new series, executive-produced by Martin Scorsese and shepherded by Terence Winter, a 
excellent scribe direct from the stable of another HBO series -- "The Sopranos." Anyone who knows TV writing knows that "Sopranos" creator David Chase groomed his scribes well.
Proof? Mathhew Weiner, another "Sopanos" alum went on to AMC to create a little show called "Mad Men."
The series stars Steve Buscemi and centers on the iconic seashore town long before casinos peppered the skyline. In fact, The Queen of Resorts, as it was once known, has the distinction of building the nation's first boardwalk.
Set at the dawn of prohibition, "Boardwalk Empire" is chock full of back-room power struggles in speakeasies and brothels run by both local politicians and racketeers -- namely Enoch “Nucky” Johnson -- the second of three bosses to head the Republican machine that dominated city politics and society.
The pilot was directed by Scorsese who will continue to be creatively involved in its ongoing production.
The first season is 12 episodes long, (including the pilot) and it will premiere in the fall of 2010.
Enjoy the two kick-ass trailers below:
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
HBO'S 'BOARDWALK EMPIRE' (DESTINED TO BE AWESOME)
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I was sold at "Steve Buscemi".
ReplyDeleteVery intriguing. This is a good excuse to get HBO.
ReplyDeleteI recorded 'Justified' last week but haven't had a chance to watch it. ;p Did you watch it? I'm hoping it's good.
Jodi:
ReplyDeleteIt WAS awesome... Granted, it's pure guy stuff and that point has been made by many a critic. I'm sure you'll like it... but be warned, lots of chest-puffin', posturing going on. Give it a shot. The real test will be tonight's episode where Elmore's source material would have exceeded and the writers have to come up with their own stuff.
It will hopefully end up over here and as Laurita said, if Mr Buscemi is in it I'll be watching for certain. Nice one Anthony.
ReplyDeleteRegards, David.