The novel The 39 Steps, written by Scottish author John Buchan in 1915, is one of the most popular books among filmmakers. In 1935 none other than Alfred Hitchcock filmed the story, The 39 Steps (1935). Not only the audience was enthusiastic about it, but also the director himself. It became one of his most favorite movies ever. After Hitchcock, three more directors made an attempt and now Netflix sees success in the story. This time, however, not as a movie, but as a series starring Benedict Cumberbatch, The 39 Steps.
The original story, as written by Buchan, is about Richard Hannay who is informed of a plot by the Germans to assassinate Greek Prime Minister Constantine Karolides during a visit to London. When the man who should have stopped this action is murdered in Hannay’s apartment, Hannay inadvertently becomes involved in the drama. Realizing that he appears guilty, he is forced to flee from both the real perpetrators and the police. At the same time, he feels a duty to prevent the assassination of the Greek prime minister.
Cumberbatch will take on the role of Hannay, in addition he is also involved in the project as a producer. The 39 Steps is directed by Edward Berger. The two previously worked together on the series Patrick Melrose (2018). The series will consist of at least six episodes of approximately one hour each. Both Cumberbatch and Berger have been very busy with other productions lately, but now it seems that there is finally some action around the Hitchcock remake. Pre-production started last July and it was also recently announced that the filming is planned for May 2022. The filming will take place in London. Other than Cumberbatch, no cast members have been announced yet.
The 39 Steps is not expected to hit Netflix before 2023.
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