Since 2002, author and translator Ken Liu has published over 100 science fiction and fantasy short stories. Now, at least some of them will form the basis for Pantheon, a new animated science fiction series in development at AMC.
Using its scripts-to-series model rather than going the traditional television route of shooting a pilot, the network creates a writers room to develop a series itself, then decides whether or not to pick up the series. According to Deadline, in addition to creating the writers room, AMC has also commissioned a five-minute animated presentation for consideration.
Craig Silverstein, who served as executive producer and writer on Nikita and Terra Nova, will oversee the project as showrunner. Liu shared the news on Twitter, with the caveat that it was early in the development process but exciting nonetheless:
Pretty happy news! https://t.co/CPbGeuALit
— Ken Liu (@kyliu99) August 4, 2018
When asked if he might join the writers room, he responded that it’s certainly a possibility:
May be there to help with ideas if things work out! Excited.
— Ken Liu (@kyliu99) August 4, 2018
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The Deadline announcement did not specify which of Liu’s stories would be adapted for Pantheon, though it did specify that the animated series would revolve around “uploaded intelligence.” Regardless, the writers room has an incredible amount of source material from which to draw.
Several pieces of Liu’s fiction have already been adapted or are in the works: “Memories of My Mother” (renamed Beautiful Dreamer) and “Real Artists” both became poignant, insightful sci-fi short films; “The Hidden Girl” and The Grace of Kings have both been optioned for film.
