ITV Commissions Beowulf

ITV has commissioned thirteen-part drama Beowulf.

Created by James Dormer, Tim Haines and Katie Newman, this action-packed series is set in the mythical Shieldlands, a place of spectacle and danger populated by both humans and fantastical creatures.

Essentially a western set in the Dark Ages of Britain's mythic past, the story unfolds on a huge canvas, filmed amongst the breathtaking beauty of England's North East.

Beowulf is a series about courage, greed, betrayal, revenge, loyalty, power, man versus wilderness and, of course love. It is a series that explores the notion of good and evil, heroes and villains. However, beyond these wider political undercurrents and inner personal turmoils are the excitement, danger and sense of adventure that any great Western has. Epic fights, thrilling chases, raids, celebrations and battles are an essential part of the promise.

James Dormer, writer and executive producer, 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 Studios' Creative Director of Drama Tim Haines will executive produce with ITV Studios' Executive Producer of Drama Katie Newman.

Stephen Smallwood will produce on location in County Durham and Northumberland. The Production's choice to use the spectacular locations available in Durham and Northumberland has been encouraged by the enthusiastic support of the various Councils of the North East.

Beowulf has been commissioned for ITV by Director of Drama Steve November and Controller of Drama Victoria Fea.

(CD/JP)