New York, NY — July 25, 2013 — Sundance Channel announced today that award winning director James Gray (“The Immigrant,” “Two Lovers,” “We Own The Night”) will direct the first episode of the network’s next original scripted series The Red Road (formally The Descendants). Today’s news comes on the heels of the recent announcement that Jason Momoa (“Wolves,” Game of Thrones) was cast in a lead role in the series.
"We are thrilled that James Gray has signed on to direct the first episode of The Red Road,” stated Nena Rodrigue, Sundance Channel’s Head of Original Programming. "He has a distinct point of view that will set a powerful tone for the series. His ability to get terrific performances out of actors and to create tough minded emotional thrillers with a heart will be a great asset to The Red Road."
As was previously announced, The Red Road has been picked up for six one—hour episodes and hails from acclaimed writer Aaron Guzikowski (Contraband, Prisoners) and veteran producer Sarah Condon (Bored to Death). The series will be executive produced by Guzikowski and Condon, and Bridget Carpenter (Friday Night Lights, Parenthood) will serve as executive producer and showrunner. The Red Road is Sundance Channel’s second wholly owned original scripted series; its first was the acclaimed Rectify, which returns for a second season in 2014.
The Red Road is a hard—hitting drama that revolves around a local cop struggling to keep his family together while simultaneously policing two clashing communities: the small town where he grew up and the neighboring Ramapo Mountains, home of the Ramapo Mountain Indians. After a terrible tragedy and coverup occurs involving the cop’s wife, an unholy alliance is forged between the cop and Phillip Kopus (played by Momoa), a dangerous member of the tribe that will come back to haunt all involved.
James Gray is represented by CAA.
Sundance Channel recently received a record ten PrimeTime Emmy® nominations for its original scripted miniseries “Top of the Lake” and “Restless.”
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About Sundance Channel
Sundance Channel is the destination for What’s Next, Now. Showcasing both today’s creative icons and the emerging talent of tomorrow, Sundance Channel tells bold stories with a fresh point of view. In addition to award winning films, Sundance Channel is home to daring new original programming. Launched in 1996 and owned and operated by AMC Networks Inc., Sundance Channel provides perspectives dedicated to founder Robert Redford’s mission to celebrate creativity.
About AMC Networks Inc.
Dedicated to producing quality programming and movie content for more than 30 years, AMC Networks Inc. owns and operates several of the most popular and award—winning brands in cable television. AMC, IFC, Sundance Channel, WE tv, and IFC Films produce and deliver distinctive, compelling and culturally relevant content that engages audiences across multiple platforms. The company also operates AMC/Sundance Channel Global, an international programming business, and AMC Networks Broadcasting & Technology, a full—service network programming feed origination and distribution company.
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