Comedian Eddie Izzard and veteran actor Vanessa Redgrave are to star in BBC1's new adaptation of the sci-fi novel The Day of the Triffids.In an all-star cast, they will be joined by Dougray Scott, Joely Richardson, Brian Cox, and Jason Priestley.
The two-part drama, which is due to air later this year, has been written by Patrick Harbinson, whose credits include the US series ER and Law & Order.
BBC1's new adaptation, which is currently in production, is based on John Wyndham's best-selling post-apocalyptic novel, first published in 1951.
Set in the near future, the drama tells the story of the search for an alternative fuel supply leading to the discovery of the triffid, a plant cultivated for its fuel but which seems to have a life of its own.
When spectators gather worldwide for an anticipated solar storm, billions are left blinded and the few sighted survivors watch as society collapses into chaos. The triffids find their way out of captivity and, free to roam the planet and with a fatal sting and a taste for human flesh, begin to rapidly start breeding.
Scott, whose credits include Mission Impossible II, will star as Dr Bill Masen, who leads the battle against the triffids. Nip/Tuck actor Richardson will appear as Jo Playton; Brian Cox, whose credits include the first two Bourne movies, will take on the role of Dennis Masen; Redgrave, who will soon be seen in the new Robin Hood movie Nottingham, will appear as Durrant; Izzard, who starred in The Riches, will take on Torrence; and Jason Priestley, who appeared in the original Beverley Hills 90210, will star as Coker.
The show is a co-production between Power, the independent producer behind The Devil's Whore, and Canadian company Prodigy Pictures.
Julie Gardner, the head of drama at BBC Wales and an executive producer of the show, said: "The incredible cast lined-up for The Day of the Triffids is testament to the quality of Patrick Harbinson's script. We hope audiences, both old and new, will be captivated by this modern take of John Wyndham's classic best-selling novel."
Justin Bodle, executive producer for Power, said the "amazing effects and iconic locations" would will deliver the "drama mini-series event of 2009".
Filming is due to take place in south-east England until April. The drama is being produced by Stephen Smallwood, whose credits include Murphy's Law, with The Summit's Nick Copus directing. Jay Firestone will also executive produce for Prodigy Pictures.
The Day of the Triffids was first adapted by BBC Radio in 1953 and then again in 1957 and 1968, with a BBC television production in 1981, starring John Duttine as Bill Masen. In 2001, writer Lance Dann adapted the series for two hour-long episodes for the BBC World Service.
Source: Guardian
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