War of the Worlds TV series adds Hereditary star Gabriel Byrne

Last Updated on July 30, 2021

Urban Myth Film’s TV series reimagining of classic sci-fi tale WAR OF THE WORLDS just added some big names to the cast with Gabriel Byrne (HEREDITARY) and Elizabeth McGovern (DOWNTOWN ABBEY, KICK-ASS) set to lead an ensemble cast that currently includes Léa Drucker, Natasha Little, Daisy Edgar Jones, Stéphane Caillard, Adel Bencherif, and Guillaume Gouix. Additional casting is still underway.

Described as a "contemporary re-imagining", the Canal+ and Fox limited series was written and created by Howard Overman. The story begins when 

astronomers detect a transmission from another galaxy, definitive proof of intelligent extra-terrestrial life. Earth's population waits for further contact with baited breath, but does not have to wait long. Within days, mankind is all but wiped out, with just pockets of humanity are left in an eerily deserted world. As alien ships appear in the sky, the survivors ask a burning question — who are these attackers and why are they hell-bent on our destruction? 

Production is now underway in the UK and France on the eight 60-minute episodes based on H.G. Wells’ classic story. The first four episodes will be directed by Gilles Coulier (CARGO) with the final four episodes to be helmed by Richard Clark (DOCTOR WHO). The series is due to debut later this year on Canal+ in France, and on Fox. And remember to take note that (somehow) there is another adaptation of Wells' classic story heading our way as well via The BBC who has filmed a three-part adaptation of the story that will actually take place at the turn of the 20th century.

I guess we'll see which version ends up being the winner in the end. But until that day you can always head on over to Amazon and snag a copy of the Steven Spielberg/Tom Cruise version RIGHT HERE.