The 'Predator' actor will play the titular magician on the History channel four-hour miniseries.
- Aug 20, 2013
AceShowbiz - History channel is going to relive Harry Houdini's magic tricks. The cable channel officially announces that it has given a go to a four-hour miniseries about the famous escape artist to be produced by Lionsgate and A+E Studios.
Adrien Brody, known for his acclaimed performance in Roman Polanski's 2002 movie "The Pianist", takes the title role on the upcoming show. Kristen Connolly is cast as Houdini's wife, Bess. No other cast members are revealed as of press time.
"It's not magic that History has established a strong track record with its high-quality historical dramas from quality auspices. We're excited to build on that tremendous momentum with Houdini," Dirk Hoogstra, exec vp and GM at History, says in a statement. "The Great Harry Houdini is a fascinating man in history and I have no doubt that Adrien Brody will bring the magician's riveting story to life for our audience."
Lionsgate Television Group president Kevin Beggs adds, "It's exciting to be working with History, Adrien and our extraordinary creative and producing partners on Houdini. We're also delighted to be expanding Lionsgate's overall relationship with A+E Networks."
Brody also comments on playing the famous magician, "Since my childhood, when I dreamed of being a great magician, Harry Houdini has been one of my heroes. His bravery and obsessive determination still fascinate me. Houdini mastered the art of escape -- not only from physical chains, but from poverty and the social constraints of a humble immigrant origin. His life story appeals to the universal longing for acceptance with which we all can identify. To portray him is beyond an honor."
Oscar nominee Uli Edel will direct "Houdini" miniseries with the script penned by Nicholas Meyer. Gerald W. Abrams and Andras Hamori will executive produce the project, while Patrizia von Brandenstein is on board as production designer and Karl Walter Lindenlaub will serve as cinematographer.
The show will trace the arc of Houdini's life from desperate poverty to worldwide fame. Production is slated to begin this fall.
