While the world waits to watch Jupiter Ascending, filmmakers Andy and Lana Wachowski are also preparing for the June 2014 production of their small-screen debut – the Netflix Original Series, Sense8.
Co-written with J. Michael Straczynski (World War Z, Thor, Babylon 5), this highly anticipated sci-fi drama will incorporate many of the staple Wachowski themes, including a globe-trotting and indeed mind-bending storyline. Reminiscent of the multi-threaded plot of their Cloud Atlas adaptation, Sense8 explores the events that transpire when eight individuals – scattered around the world – are simultaneously connected by a “violent vision”. It soon becomes apparent that they are being hunted by an enigmatic stranger, who perceives them as a threat.
The series will comprise – initially, at least – 10 episodes, with each focusing on a specific character. The globe-trotting production will include locations such as Berlin, Seoul, Mumbai, San Francisco, Mexico City, Nairobi, Chicago and the UK, as the show boasts a range of characters on various continents –from all walks of life, too. While details of casting choices have yet to be released, such a broad narrative scope makes the potential for this TV show seem limitless.
Details of this latest collaboration between revered filmmakers and Netflix further demonstrate the rapidly expanding influence of the on-demand online media streaming service. Since releasing original series Lilyhammer and The Ropes in 2012, the platform has become a leading creator of new shows, including the recently renewed House Of Cards, Hemlock Grove and Orange Is The New Black. With upcoming productions such as Bojack Horseman, Marco Polo and Narcos, as well as inking a deal with Marvel to bring Daredevil, Jessica Jones, Luke Cage and Iron Fist to the small screen, it should come as no surprise that talented storytellers such as Andy and Lana Wachowski are keen to introduce Sense8 to the Netflix audience.
