Who would have ever thought that we’d eventually come to a point when Dead Ringers, perhaps David Cronenberg’s most demented movie, would become so valuable an IP that Prime Video would reboot (and gender swap) the premise into a TV series? Indeed, Dead Ringers ranks as one of Cronenberg’s most arresting works. While the idea of turning his film about demented twin gynecologists (unforgettably played by Jeremy Irons) into a series seems like a reach, the show has one thing about it that instantly gives it credibility: Rachel Weisz.
Now, Prime Video has released the final, full trailer for the much-anticipated series, which starts streaming on April 21st. All six episodes will be released on the same day, and while Cronenberg is not involved in the show, the behind-the-scenes talent is noteworthy. The showrunner, Alice Birch, is a veteran of Succession and was a writer on Normal People, the show introduced us to two of the biggest rising stars today, Paul Mescal and Daisy Edgar-Jones. The directors include Martha Marcy May Marlene & The Iron Claw’s Sean Durkin, and Yellowjackets’ Karyn Kusama.
This new version of Dead Ringers stars Weisz as Elliot and Beverly Mantle, twin gynecologists. As in the movie, one is altruistic and kind, while the other is more of a libertine. While it remains to be seen if the show gets a wild as the movie (including “gynecological instruments for mutant women”), it certainly looks like a prestigious and sophisticated series, anchored by Rachel Weisz, who, at this point, can’t go wrong. She’s among the most underrated actresses in the business, so while many might dismiss a Cronenberg property getting made without him, I’m inclined to give this show the benefit of the doubt.
Will you be watching the Dead Ringers series when it hits Prime Video on April 21st? Let us know in the comments!