Starz has greenlit a series about the 13th century explorer Marco Polo written and created by John Fusco (Hidalgo), so says Starz, LLC, President and CEO Chris Albrecht, The Weinstein Company’s Co-Chairman, Harvey Weinstein, and Electus Chairman and Founder, Ben Silverman. “Marco Polo has captivated imaginations for centuries, and John’s script brings this fantastical story to life. In addition to a remarkable story, we share a joint creative vision with our partners at The Weinstein Company and Electus to deliver a larger than life cinematic adventure for audiences in the United States and around the world,” stated Albrecht.
“The stories and adventures of Marco Polo are timeless and we couldn’t be more excited to work with Starz and Electus on this project,” said Weinstein. “We look forward to beginning production next year on what is sure to be a fascinating, martial-arts filled telling of one of history’s greatest explorers.”
“We are thrilled to be able to work with an exceptional creative team to tell this amazing story in an updated and unique way,” said Ben Silverman, Chairman and Founder of Electus. “Starz has been a tremendous partner in allowing us maximum creative freedom to bring audiences a fresh perspective on history and John Fusco, who lives and breathes this material, is uniquely qualified to bring this story to life.”
The Story:
Marco Polo is Fusco’s fantastical martial arts epic, chronicling the famous adventurer’s early years in the court of Kublai Khan. Acting as the ruler’s spy, ambassador and explorer, Marco treks across the Far East and returns with tales of his journeys. In a court filled with political betrayal and forbidden relationships, Marco must use his martial arts training to survive, but it is his ability to enchant Khan with imaginative tales of his kingdom that is often his best tool to stay alive.
Source: Starz, January 13, 2012
Posted by Rebecca Murray
