‘Adolescence’ Producer Warp Films Adapting Apocalyptic 1984 Feature ‘Threads’ Into TV Drama

Warp Films, the U.K. production banner that recently scored a hit with Netflix drama “Adolescence,” has acquired the option to develop 1984 film “Threads” into a TV drama.

Renowned for its groundbreaking portrayal of a fictional apocalypse, “Threads” — which was nominated for 7 BAFTA awards, winning 4 —  offers a harrowing depiction of life in nuclear war-era Britain, set in the city of Sheffield (where Warp is based). The new adaptation will, according to the filmmakers, explore prescient issues through “rich, character-driven” storytelling.

“Threads was, and remains, an unflinchingly honest drama that imagines the devastating effects of nuclear conflict on ordinary people,” said Mark Herbert, founder and chief executive officer at Warp Films. “This story aligns perfectly with our ethos of telling powerful, grounded narratives that deeply connect with audiences. Reimagining this classic film as a TV drama gives us a unique opportunity to explore its modern relevance.”

Decades after “Threads” was first released, the film found a new audience, with many contemporary critics describing it as a masterpiece.

“Threads is clearly a deeply impactful story and right now, it feels more relevant than ever,” said Emily Feller, Warp Films’ CCO and executive producer. “This adaptation will allow us to uncover fresh interpretations in light of today’s world.  We imagine highlighting how resilience and connection can offer hope even in the most challenging of times. Through this lens, an adaptation of the incredible film can reexamine its significance for then and for now – allowing us to engage with a modern audience.”

Warp Films, known for shows such as “This is England,” The Virtues,” and “The Last Panthers,” smashed records with “Adolescence,” the results of a development deal with frequent collaborator Stephen Graham and the Matriarch Productions banner he set up with his wife Hannah Walters.

The limited series — centred around a teenage boy arrested for the murder of a girl in his school — became one of the most talked about shows of the year, opened with a massive 24.3 million views in its first four days and hit 66.3 million in 11 days, more than any other Netflix limited series has achieved within a two-week period. It has since entered Netflix’s top 10 list of most popular English-language TV series.