Incredible news.
In terms of the current golden age of TV that we’re living in, it could be argued that a few select shows really enhanced the standard of TV as a platform that could rival Hollywood’s biggest productions.
The Sopranos, The Wire, 24 and Band Of Brothers were absolutely key as, aside from proving that the medium is the most fertile ground for long-form storytelling, they’re all bloody great shows.
Band of Brothers is right up there with the very best, which isn’t a huge surprise when you consider that Tom Hanks and Steven Spielberg were the executive producers.
And if that wasn’t enough, the cast alone is a good enough reason to watch.
If you haven’t seen it yet, set aside the weekend and get stuck in.
In terms of acting talent, there’s Damian Lewis, Ron Livingston, Andrew Scott, Donnie Wahlberg, James McAvoy Dominic Cooper, Colin Hanks, David Schwimmer, Simon Pegg, Michael Fassbender and even a young Tom Hardy featuring.
The miniseries is based on historian Stephen E. Ambrose’s 1992 non-fiction book and it’s an outstanding piece of TV that was nominated for 20 Primetime Emmy Awards.
It won seven, including Outstanding Miniseries and Outstanding Directing for a Miniseries, Movie, or Dramatic Special. It also won the Golden Globe Award for Best Miniseries or Motion Picture Made for Television.
If you were a fan, you’ll be glad to hear a follow-up is coming, with the powerhouses of Tom Hanks and Steven Spielberg involved as executive producers yet again.
Apple TV will be making Masters of the Air, a follow-up to Band of Brothers and The Pacific.
Masters of the Air will also be a limited drama and represents the first series to be greenlit with Apple serving as the studio.
As for what’s in store, Variety reports: “Based on the book by Donald L. Miller, Masters of the Air will follow the true, deeply personal story of the American bomber boys in World War II who brought the war to Hitler’s doorstep.”
The series will be written by Band of Brothers alumnus John Orloff, who is also a co-executive producer. Spielberg is executive producing via his Amblin Television banner, alongside Hanks and Gary Goetzman for Playtone.
We can’t wait!
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