The production company behind Adolescence has reportedly secured the rights to make a TV show based on ‘80s TV film Threads.
Released in 1984, Threads told the story of two families from Sheffield surviving the aftermath of a fictional nuclear war between the United States and former Soviet Union. The subject matter was timely given it was made at the height of The Cold War between the countries, where nuclear conflict seemed a distinct possibility.
Its visceral depiction of the consequences of nuclear war was adored by critics, but was considered by audiences to be terrifying. After it’s initial broadcast, and a repeat in 1985, it was not shown again on British television until 2003. It is currently available in the UK on iPlayer.
Now, it’s been revealed that Warp Films, the company behind Adolescence, has secured rights to make a television version. Speaking to Radio Times, Warp founder and chief executive Mark Herbert said:
“Threads was, and remains, an unflinchingly honest drama that imagines the devastating effects of nuclear conflict on ordinary people. This story aligns perfectly with our ethos of telling powerful, grounded narratives that deeply connect with audiences”.
Adolescence has become one of the biggest TV hits of the year, following its Netflix debut on March 13. The show, about a father (Stephen Graham) struggling in the aftermath of his son being accused of murder, shone a light on real-world issues such as toxic masculinity and the affect of social media on young people.
Recently, Netflix announced it would be making the show available to schools across the country. Producers Graham and Hannah Walters have said a follow up series is a “possibility”.