Classic Film to Get New Life with TV Series Told from Chief Bromden’s Perspective

A classic movie is getting a fresh new take with a TV series that will tell the story from a different point of view. Paul Zaentz, who is the nephew of the original film’s producer Saul Zaentz, spoke on the indie filmmaking podcast CK Café about plans to create a show focusing on Chief Bromden, one of the key characters.

“Just now, I’ve signed an agreement with Ken Kesey’s widow to develop a TV series which we’ll make through the point of view of the Chief for the first season,” Zaentz shared. “Following the first season, we’ll see what happens to the Chief after he escapes.”

This is particularly notable because Ken Kesey, the author of the original novel, didn’t fully support the 1975 movie directed by Milos Forman.

The book is told from Chief Bromden’s perspective, but the film changed that. In the movie, the Chief, played by Will Sampson, is a large Native American patient who pretends to be deaf and mute. Over time, the main character encourages him to come out of his silence, making the Chief a symbol of hope and rebellion.

At this point, there is no word on who will be writing the new series or which studio might be involved. This update came first from the podcast where Zaentz spoke.

The original story follows a rebellious man sent to a psychiatric hospital in Oregon during 1963. Jack Nicholson played the lead in the film, inspiring other patients to stand up to a strict and controlling nurse. The Chief’s role is powerful, so focusing on his view could give fans a new way to experience the story.

Michael Douglas recently mentioned there’s always been interest in remaking or creating spin-offs from this story. But Zaentz has kept things quiet until now. So far, the only official TV spin-off was Netflix’s 2020 show Ratched, a prequel produced by Zaentz that lasted one season.

Zaentz also talked about a new 4K restored version of the original film, which Fathom Entertainment will release in over 1,000 theaters across the U.S. to celebrate the movie’s 50th anniversary.

When asked about remakes, Zaentz expressed some caution. He said, “don’t remake Psycho,” but believes TV series allow for more character development. Still, he felt recent adaptations like Netflix’s versions of The Mosquito Coast and The Talented Mr. Ripley didn’t quite match the originals.

In 2023, Zaentz’s company, Teatro della Pace Films, acquired the film library of the Saul Zaentz Company, including the original movie, The English Patient, and Amadeus.

Paul Zaentz has worked on many films with his uncle, including Amadeus, The Mosquito Coast, and The English Patient.

This new series from the Chief’s point of view promises to give fans a deeper and fresh look at a classic story.

This information was first revealed on podcast CK Café.

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