Premium docs specialist Lightbox is moving into drama with Gunpower Siege, a scripted series for Sky History in the UK that promises to reveal the gripping truth behind the Gunpowder Plot. Chuku Modu (Game of Thrones) leads the cast, starring as Robert Catesby.
Lightbox is known for high-end docs including Man on Wire and Searching for Sugar Man. Its first drama aims to shatter myths around the Gunpowder Plot, one of the most infamous moments in British history and when, in 1605, a group of plotters organized by Catesby attempted to blow up King James I at the opening of Parliament.
The three-part series is written by Noel McCann (Blue Lights). It delves into the aftermath of the Plot, spotlighting its three leaders: Catesby, his cunning cousin Thomas Wintour, and their ruthless enforcer, Thomas Percy. Luke Hobson (Mary Queen of Scots) plays Wintour, and Luke Roberts (Ransom) is Percy.
The series follows the men as they try and raise a revolutionary army – and while the captured Guy Fawkes is being tortured in the Tower of London. Charlotte Pyke (Slow Horses) plays Anne Vaux, a supporter of the Plot and who acts as narrator.
Sky History commissioned the series. It is the flagship brand of A+E Networks EMEA, whose VP, Programming, Dan Korn said: “Everyone learns about the Gunpowder Plot at school but very few really know what it meant to those most intimately involved. Gunpowder Siege tells their story.”
Lightbox’s Simon Chinn, Jonathan Chinn and Vanessa Tovell are exec producers on the series.
“The real story of the days that follow the failed Gunpowder Plot has all the elements of a Hollywood blockbuster,” Tovell said. “We are thrilled to be partnering with Sky History on Lightbox’s first fully scripted series, breathing new life into a much-misunderstood historical event and showing why we should remember the 5th of November.”
Newly-minted Sphere Abacus has snagged international rights and will handle distribution. It will be on its first-ever slate at the Mipcom market in Cannes, next month.
