A prequel series to the film The Book of Eli is in development, with Star Wars sequel trilogy star John Boyega set to lead the show.
Deadline has reported that Boyega will play the lead role of Eli — a character that was originally played by Denzel Washington in the 2010 post-apocalyptic movie. Boyega will also executive produce the series, which also has Gary Whitta — the writer of the movie — on board as creator, writer, and executive producer. The directors of the original film, Albert Hughes and Allen Hughes, will executive produce as well.
The series will reportedly be set approximately 30 years before the film, around the same time as the nuclear event that destroyed the world. Produced by Alcon Entertainment, the outlet notes that the show is likely “about to be taken out to select premium buyers”
The Book of Eli was first released on January 15, 2010 and starred Denzel Washington, Gary Oldman, Mila Kunis, Ray Stevenson, Jennifer Beals, Frances de la Tour, and Michael Gambon. It received a mixed reception critically and made $157.1 million at the box office.
What is The Book of Eli about?
“Thirty years after war turned the world into a wasteland, a lone warrior named Eli (Denzel Washington) marches across the ruined landscape, carrying hope for humanity’s redemption,” reads the film’s synopsis. “Only one other man (Gary Oldman) understands the power of what Eli carries, and he is determined to take it for himself. Though Eli prefers peace, he will risk death to protect his precious cargo, for he must fulfill his destiny to help restore mankind.”
