Fantasy Drama Sinbad for Sky 1

Earlier today Sky revealed details of its new epic fantasy drama Sinbad, to air on Sky 1. The drama follows the iconic mythological character, which is currently filming in Malta for transmission in 2012.

Sinbad is promised to be ‘a 21st century take on the classic 8th century iconic hero, reinvigorating the hero’s adventures for a contemporary audience.‘ Leading the cast in the title role, of what Sky describe as an ‘high-octane adventure’, is newcomer Elliot Knight, 20, who will be graduating from drama school this summer.

Commenting on his casting, Elliot Knight says:

“I was thrilled when I heard I’d got the role of Sinbad. This is exactly what I have wanted to do since I was big enough to run around the garden waving a toy sword! Sinbad is a great character for any actor to be able to play: impulsive, adventurous, passionate, loyal and brave; a true hero. His story is packed with action, adventure and fantasy and I am looking forward to the exciting challenge of bringing him to life for a new generation.”

Alongside Knight, will be a host of well-known faces, including LOST’s Naveen Andrews as Sinbad’s nemesis, Lord Akbari, who will stop at nothing to destroy the young hero. Also, guest starring in the series are Sophie Okonedo who plays Razia, Queen of the Water-Thieves, and Timothy Spall as Anicetus, The Old Man of the Sea. Completing the ship’s complement is the Cook, an odd-ball and eccentric character and the ship’s cerebral doctor Anwar.

The storyline follows Sinbad and his fellow ship-mates as they are forced to band together following a violent and magical storm which leads them to both face their inner demons, hopes, loves and fears. Sky’s flawed hero embarks on an epic and emotional quest to rid himself of the curse and embrace his destiny. When mystical meets muscle anything can happen…

Huw Kennair-Jones, Sky’s Drama Commissioning Editor, commented:

“As our biggest original drama commission to date Sidbad is a hugely exciting project for Sky 1 HD, and the casting of the lead role was always going to be crucial. But from the first moment we saw Elliot we knew that we’d found someone really special who sums up everything that our Sinbad should be – contemporary, spirited, full of life, wit and charm – he’s a truly exciting new talent for the channel.”