‘Beowulf’ Series in the Works at Syfy

Syfy is prepping to explore one of the oldest poems in literature.

The  network is teaming with 1408 writer Matt Greenberg to adapt Beowulf, The Hollywood Reporter has learned.

The development project, from Universal Cable Productions, is described as an adaptation of the classic epic poem that further examines the hero’s rise to power and his feud with the monster Grendel.

Universal Cable Productions and Omnifilm Entertainment will co-distribute the project, with the latter serving as the production company on the drama. Brian Hamilton, Michael Chechik, Matt Greenberg, Andrew Cosby and Paulo de Oliveira are on board to executive produce.

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The Old English poem, which is cited as one of the most important works in literature, originated between the 8th and 11th century. Beowulf was previously adapted for the big screen in 2007 with Robert Zemeckis‘ animated take starring Robin Wright and Anthony Hopkins. The feature grossed $191 million worldwide.

Previous takes have included 2007’s Grendel, Syfy’s TV movie;  and 2005’s Beowulf & Grendel, with Gerard Butler, among others.

Beowulf comes as Syfy is also prepping a take on Brad Pitt-Bruce Willis feature 12 Monkeys, which recently began casting, and Dominion, a take on 2010 feature Legion. The project joins a development slate that also includes a Jamie Foxx horror anthology series, Bryan Fuller‘s High Moon and Gale Anne Hurd‘s Hunters, among others.  

Greenberg is repped by UTA, Magnolia Entertainment and attorney Jason Sloane.

E-mail: Lesley.Goldberg@THR.com
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