Breakthrough, Daniel H. Birman’s Co. to Jointly Produce Docuseries

LOS ANGELES/TORONTO: Breakthrough Entertainment and Daniel H. Birman Productions have joined forces to co-produce a multi-part documentary series based on the Hinges of History book series by historian and author Thomas Cahill. 

The six best-selling books in Cahill’s Hinges of History series, as well as How The Americans Saved Civilization, set for release in September 2016, will serve as the springboard for the documentary series. The project will examine the beginnings of Western civilization through the little-known stories of those who had the greatest impact on its evolution. 

Birman and Breakthrough’s Nat Abraham, Ira Levy, Michael McGuigan and Peter Williamson will serve as executive producers. Megan Chao, head of development and production for Birman Productions, will produce. Writer Angus Fraser worked with Birman Productions and Breakthrough Entertainment to develop the series.

Levy, a partner in Breakthrough Entertainment, said: “Thomas Cahill ranks among the most important scholars and historical writers of our era. At the same time, Daniel Birman brings to this extraordinary and compelling project a distinguished career in documentary filmmaking. We are excited to work with both author and producer alike in bringing the genius of Thomas Cahill to broadcasters and audiences worldwide.”

“Thomas Cahill’s books are enlightening and entertaining, placing the reader inside each moment in history to provide an immersive reading experience,” said Birman. “Cahill’s writing style gives us a deep understanding of the people he brings to life intertwined with historical developments that have shaped our culture. But even more, Cahill gives us an even greater understanding of who we are and our role in the Western world. His extraordinary historical perspective is the basis for a relevant and altogether unprecedented series.”

“I’ve known Dan Birman for many years now, ever since writing How the Irish Saved Civilization,” Cahill added. “My long association with him gives me confidence that the series will represent my work. I’m looking forward to working with Birman Productions and Breakthrough Entertainment to bring my series to television.”