TV Show directory - NW
An adaptation of Zadie Smith’s universally-acclaimed novel, NW, is to be produced by multi-award-winning Mammoth Screen for BBC Two this autumn. Announced last night (Monday 7th March) by the BBC’s Charlotte Moore, Controller of TV Channels and iPlayer, the 90-minute drama will be adapted by Rachel Bennette (Bel Ami).
NW tells the story of Natalie and Leah, friends who grew up together in North West London, whose lives have taken them in different directions. Natalie’s wealth and ambition have set her apart from the friends and family she grew up with – and she finds herself asking not only who she really is, but where she belongs. In an area where wealth and poverty are only streets apart, life is fragile – as Natalie and Leah are about to find out.
First published in 2012, Smith’s tragi-comedy was instantly hailed by critics, became a Top Ten bestseller and was shortlisted for The Women’s Prize for Fiction. Mammoth Screen Executive Producer Preethi Mavahalli, said: “To call Zadie’s NW a masterpiece is no exaggeration – it is a sharp and stunning portrait of modern life. Exploring themes of migration, class and friendship against the backdrop of a perfectly-observed London, it has all the ingredients of an outstanding piece of drama”.
Zadie Smith says: “I am thrilled that the BBC is picking up NW. These are characters of the page for me and I’m very curious and excited to see them walking and talking in a fully realised world.”
Executive producers are Preethi Mavahalli and Damien Timmer at Mammoth Screen, and Lucy Richer for the BBC. Casting is underway.
Production Company: Mammoth Screen Limited
Year of Publication: 2016
