If you’re a huge fan of Edgar Wright, Nick Frost and Simon Pegg (you know, the guys who brought us Shaun of the Dead and Hot Fuzz), than you’ve probably seen their now cult classic British television show Spaced. The original series, which ran on Channel 4 in the U.K. for two seasons, was written by Pegg and Jessica Hynes, and was directed by Wright. The show follows two strangers who must pose as a married couple to rent an apartment. It earned two BAFTA nominations and an International Emmy nomination. If you have never watched this series, now is a great time to import the DVD box set or download the series.
Today it was announced that producer McG is bringing the series to America, but is that a bad thing? So far the majority of internet fans seem to be up in arms over the idea of an American remake. The show would likely see no involvement of Wright and Pegg. The great thing about the Spaced television show was that it nailed the geek characterizations / references / information accurately and without degradation. And while I’m an avid watcher of the McG-produced television show Chuck, I’m disappointed with the shows treatment of geek culture. And if they can’t get that aspect of the show right, it will be sure to ultimately fail.
Will & Grace scribe Adam Barr is writing the pilot script, which has garnered interest from several networks. Barr’s credits also include Weird Science, Parker Lewis and The New Adventures of Old Christine.
October 31st, 2007 at 10:23 am
This project is doomed. The original series is inspired, each episode better than the one before it. Check out the paintball episode if you can - I think part of it is on youtube.
October 31st, 2007 at 3:58 pm
It’s moments like these that make me hate hollywood.
October 31st, 2007 at 7:25 pm
Yes, BudhaCronX, and these moments occur far too often. And have the word “McG” attached to them.
March 3rd, 2008 at 1:37 pm
To answer the titular question….yes, he will.
March 11th, 2008 at 9:53 pm
As an ardent fan of Spaced I sincerely doubt the nuances and spirit will translate well to a US audience. With MCcG as an executive producer this is even less likely to happen.
I wonder if there will ever a third season of what is the greatest comedy series ever.