Rachel Weisz Plays Twin Doctors In The Scary And Seductive Dead Ringers Series
David Cronenberg's work can never truly be replicated, but that doesn't mean it can't be modernized. One of his movies best primed for re-interpretation is "Dead Ringers," his 1988 psychological thriller starring Jeremy Irons in dual gynecologist roles. The film has frequently been considered one of the best Canadian films of all time, landing on the Toronto International Film Festival's decennial curated Top 10 list. While certainly a great movie, it can be argued that some of its themes may be better explored with a few changes.
Thankfully, "Dead Ringers" is about to get a new lease on life thanks to Prime Video. The streamer has released new details about its series adaptation of the film, directed by such big names as Karyn Kusama ("Jennifer's Body," "The Invitation") and Sean Durkin ("Martha Marcy May Marlene," "The Iron Claw"). While this adaptation has been in the works for a few years, it's actually coming to our screens closer than you may realize. Here's what you need to know about the Prime Video limited series take on "Dead Ringers."
Dead Ringers release date and where to watch it
As previously stated, you'll be able to watch "Dead Ringers" on Prime Video. Thankfully, it won't be geo-locked to any specific country, as it will be available to stream worldwide. A release date has long been kept under wraps as production continues, but it was recently announced that the limited series version of "Dead Ringers" will be available to stream starting on April 21, 2023. It's unclear whether the show will be released all at once or if a select few episodes will be available to stream on that date. Regardless, we'll certainly be hooked by the first episode.
If you're looking to watch the original "Dead Ringers" to familiarize yourself with the story, you have a few different options. It is currently available to stream on HBO Max, Peacock, and The Roku Channel, as well as available to rent or purchase on all digital media platforms. We wouldn't be surprised if it also arrives on Prime Video in April to line up with the series' release.
How closely will Dead Ringers stick to the original film?
From the show's official synopsis, it sounds like the show will stick fairly closely to the original movie's plot with a few bold changes. The most obvious of these changes is the gender swapping of the show's leads. Doctors Elliot and Beverly Mantle will now be played by Rachel Weisz. Yes, both names are actually considered gender-neutral, so the more you know! Here's how Prime Video describes the series:
A modern take on David Cronenberg's 1988 thriller starring Jeremy Irons, "Dead Ringers" will feature Rachel Weisz playing the double-lead roles of Elliot and Beverly Mantle, twins who share everything: drugs, lovers, and an unapologetic desire to do whatever it takes — including pushing the boundaries of medical ethics — in an effort to challenge antiquated practices and bring women's health care to the forefront.
Before you go comparing this dynamic to that seen in Brian De Palma's 1972 classic "Sisters," the Mantle sisters' personalities seem just like the ones the original film's brothers had. The question is, how far will these sisters go to get what they want? Will jealousy and the overbearing fear of conscience tear them apart? Only time, and the show's complete run, will tell.
The cast and crew of Dead Ringers
While Rachel Weisz is the main attraction for the series, her portrayals of Elliot and Beverly are just one part of the show's greater puzzle. Joining her will be Poppy Liu, Emily Meade, Britne Oldford, Michael Chernus, and Jennifer Ehle, with more cast members presumably being announced once its release date inches closer.
Not only is the cast of the show illustrious, but its behind-the-scenes talent is, as well. As previously mentioned, Durkin and Kusama will direct episodes of the series, with the former directing the first two and co-directing its finale. Karena Evans and Lauren Wolkstein also directed episodes of the series. In addition to their respective roles, Weisz and Durkin also serve as executive producers for the series alongside Alice Birch, Stacy O'Neil, Sue Naegle, Ali Krug, Erica Kay, Anne Carey, and others.
Sadly, a trailer has not yet been made available, but we'll be keeping our eyes peeled for the scary and seductive goodness.