Often, when you see that a Hollywood studio is hoping to remake a film or TV series, it feels like a cash grab, with no real reason for existing outside of earning a quick buck. But sometimes, there’s a remake that just feels like it could be great and actually build from what has come before. That’s the initial vibe you get from the upcoming Amazon series, “Dead Ringers.”
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The new drama series, “Dead Ringers,” is based on the 1988 film by director David Cronenberg. However, instead of being a beat-for-beat remake, it appears the folks behind the series have decided to go in a new and unique direction, drawing inspiration from the source material without just repackaging it and trying to trick audiences into believing it’s something new. I mean, can you really expect a remake of a Cronenberg film from 1988 starring Jeremy Irons to be a cynical cash grab? Probably not.
“Dead Ringers” tells the story of twin doctors, both played by Rachel Weisz, who have a unique relationship where they share everything, including drugs, lovers, and the motivation to push the boundaries of ethical medicine for their own gain, all in the name of bringing women’s health to the forefront.
Joining Weisz in the cast are Britne Oldford, Poppy Liu, Michael Chernus, Jennifer Ehle, and Emily Meade. The series is created, written, and executive produced by Alice Birch, who you may know from her work on projects such as “Succession,” “Normal People,” and “The Wonder.”
Perhaps most interesting about “Dead Ringers” is the incredible stable of directors who are attached to episodes. Sean Durkin leads the way as the director of the first two episodes and a co-director on the last. He’s joined by Karyn Kusama, Karena Evans, and Lauren Wolkstein.
“Dead Ringers” will debut all six episodes of the series on April 21. You can see the first-look photos below.
Here’s the synopsis for the series:
A modern take on David Cronenberg’s 1988 thriller starring Jeremy Irons, Dead Ringers will feature Rachel Weisz playing the double-lead roles of Elliot and Beverly Mantle, twins who share everything: drugs, lovers, and an unapologetic desire to do whatever it takes—including pushing the boundaries of medical ethics—in an effort to challenge antiquated practices and bring women’s health care to the forefront.
