Nat Geo Adapting Michael Crichton Book as a Limited Series

WASHINGTON, D.C./LOS ANGELES: National Geographic Channel has secured a script-development deal for a global limited series based on the soon-to-be-published Michael Crichton manuscript Dragon Teeth.

Nat Geo is adapting the script for TV in partnership with Amblin Television, Sony Pictures Television and CrichtonSun. Crichton wrote the novel during his most prolific years as a writer and filmmaker and it was discovered by his wife, Sherri Crichton, among his archives.

“This epic tale of science, adventure and exploration from master storyteller Michael Crichton is the perfect scripted project for the network,” said Carolyn Bernstein, the executive VP and head of global scripted development and production at National Geographic Channel. “With Amblin, Sony Pictures Television, CrichtonSun and the distinctive creative voices of Graham and Bruce, we are going to tell the dramatic story of these two passionate mavericks, Edward Drinker Cope and Othniel Charles Marsh, and their relentless, passionate, and oftentimes unscrupulous drive in the name of scientific discovery, mixed with the very unique and brilliant Crichton touch and approach.”

The network also picked up the global scripted miniseries The Long Road Home, based on the New York Times best seller from Martha Raddatz. Following a development deal, Nat Geo greenlit the event series for eight hour-long episodes. Production will begin in early 2017.

“With The Long Road Home, we’re going to tell the inspiring story of the selfless heroism and bravery of U.S. soldiers in extraordinary and terrifying circumstances. We’re also going to shine a light on the sisterhood formed by their wives on the homefront as they rally around each other awaiting news of their husbands’ fates,” said Bernstein. “We are so pleased to partner with Mike Medavoy, a producer with a remarkable list of credits, including some of cinema’s most iconic military dramas, along with Jason Clark, president of Seth MacFarlane’s Fuzzy Door Productions, and Mikko Alanne to bring the universal and timeless story of these courageous warriors and their equally courageous wives to Nat Geo.”

National Geographic Channel is working with Katie Couric Media, as well as National Geographic Studios, for a two-hour doc tentatively titled Gender Revolution. The documentary will look at the role of genetics, brain chemistry and modern culture on gender fluidity. Katie Couric will host and serve as executive producer on the project. “This show will explore the roles of science, politics and culture on gender, giving viewers a greater understanding of what is becoming a rapidly evolving issue,” said Courteney Monroe, the CEO of National Geographic Global Networks. “We’re proud to partner with Katie and her talented production team to play a part in breaking down the complexities of gender identity.”

The channel picked up the worldwide rights to an untitled climate-change doc from Fisher Stevens and Leonardo DiCaprio. The film takes a look at how society can prevent the demise of endangered species, ecosystems and native communities across the globe.

“National Geographic has a long history of inspiring others to care about the planet,” Monroe commented. “Now, in the midst of the undeniable crisis that is climate change, we have a responsibility to inspire others to act. I have no doubt that the global reach of our brand, combined with DiCaprio’s passion for this issue and Fisher’s compelling storytelling, will bring this critical issue to the forefront like never before.”

The company also revealed its first VR documentary short, The Protectors. The project will expose the dangerous and grueling reality faced by rangers protecting African elephants from ivory poachers. Kathryn Bigelow (Last Days, The Hurt Locker) and VR creator Imraan Esmail (The Displaced, Valen’s Reef) will co-create the 12-minute VR film in partnership with Here Be Dragons.

Tim Pastore, the president of original programming and production at National Geographic Channel, said: “We want to bring exceptional content that is emblematic of National Geographic to viewers everywhere and are proud to collaborate with the talented Kathryn Bigelow and Imraan Esmail along with Here Be Dragons and Annapurna Pictures on our first foray into the doc short-form space using VR technology. This film will take viewers to the front lines alongside Nat Geo storytellers in the hopes that we can change their perception on ivory through this powerful virtual experience.”