The Frankenstein Chronicles – which was largely filmed in Armagh – is due to hit our screens in November.
The first hour-long episode of the six-part series is due to be broadcast on ITV Encore under the title of ‘World Without God’.
The reimagining of Mary Shelley’s Gothic horror novel – starring Hollywood star Sean Bean – was filmed on location largely in the city; Vicars Hill, the Armagh Courthouse, Armagh Gaol, Russell Street and Gosford Forest Park were among the ideal backdrops for the series, which is also getting a global release having been snapped up by other channels.
Shooting started in Belfast in January before moving on to Armagh.
The series – consisting of six one hour episodes – was produced by Rainmark Films with Northern Ireland Screen providing funding.
The first instalment of the eagerly-awaited period drama will be broadcast on Wednesday, November 11, between 10pm and 11pm.
Set in Regency London in 1827, The Frankenstein Chronicles has been created by Emmy nominated director and writer Benjamin Ross (The Young Poisoner’s Handbook, Torte Bluma – both as director) and writer Barry Langford (Torte Bluma).
In the drama’s opening sequences, the Home Secretary Sir Robert Peel, following a successful operation by Thames River Police to apprehend a gang of opium smugglers, recruits Inspector John Marlott, played by Sean Bean.
As he stands on the water’s edge contemplating the arrest of the smugglers, Marlott makes a shocking discovery. The body of a dead child is washed up on the shore and on further examination of the corpse he is horrified to discover it’s not actually a child but rather a crude assembly of body parts arranged in a grotesque parody of a human form.
The mutilated child-like body leaves an indelible impression on Marlott and he finds himself unable to shake off the memory of what has happened that fateful night.
With a formidable reputation as an investigator, he is known as a man who “doesn’t know the meaning of fear,” so it comes as no surprise when coldly efficient Peel, summons him insisting the “details of your investigation must remain confidential”.
And after what he’s witnessed, Marlott accepts the challenge to track the perpetrator of this heinous crime.
We follow him as he pursues the crazed killer behind the mutilated body. As he investigates, Marlott discovers that what he’s dealing with is more horrific than he could possibly have imagined.
Local viewers may be disappointed that for now it will be aired on ITV Encore but there is a distinct possibility of a future terrestrial screening. It will also be shown on the American cable channel A&E next year.
Sky TV customers can also view the series of six episodes online, with ITV Encore now available on Sky channel 123.
In addition, ITV Encore can also be viewed by those who hold NOW TV Entertainment Month Passes.
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