Having failed to set the big screen ablaze a couple of years ago with CITY OF BONES, it’s hoped TV will prove a more fertile territory for an adaptation of Cassandra Clare’s The Mortal Instruments book series.
Shadowhunters is to be produced by ABC Family. It focuses on Clary Fray, a teenage girl who’s about to find out she’s part-angel and has a secret family history of tracking down ancient monsters. Also featuring a range of classic creatures such as werewolves and the ubiquitous vampires, Clare’s saga has been a smash on the bookshelves, selling over 35 million copies around the world.
The author is naturally enthusiastic about having the brand extended to the lucrative live action market, releasing the following statement:
I’m excited to see ABC Family bring the world of the ‘Shadowhunters’ to life. As a huge fan of longform television drama, I can’t wait to see the story unfold and for the fans to have more time with the world and the characters.
You can place a safe bet this is a better venue for a multi-chapter franchise. Other successful tomes like His Dark Materials and Percy Jackson have fared less well on celluloid.
Constantin Film are partnering with the cable channel on the show – they were also behind the film, which starred Lily Collins as Clary. Unforgettable‘s Ed Decter has been announced as showrunner and exec producer. The cameras are expected to roll in May and the production is based in Canada.
Source: Variety
