BBC Four to show Altman's satirical mini-series Tanner

by Sam Matthews,, Brand Republic 29-Sep-04, 14:30

LONDON – BBC Four has acquired the UK rights to Robert Altman's TV mini-series 'Tanner on Tanner', a sequel to the 'M*A*S*H' and 'The Player' director's critically acclaimed political 'Tanner 88'.

'Tanner on Tanner' was written by Pulitzer prize-winning Doonesbury cartoonist Garry Trudeau and directed by Altman, who was behind hit films including 'Nashville' and 'Gosford Park'. The UK rights for the mini-series were bought from Robert Redford's Sundance Channel.

The show stars 'Sex and the City' actress Cynthia Nixon as Alex Tanner, Michael Murphy as her father Jack, and Pamela Reed as TJ Cavanaugh.

'Tanner on Tanner', which resurrects many more of the original 'Tanner '88' cast, follows Alex's quest to discover what is inside the soul of a politician. With the help of her father, himself a former Presidential candidate from 16 years previously, they interview figures for her film.

The outcome is part political satire and part send up of film-makers.

Guest appearances on 'Tanner on Tanner' include actor Steve Buscemi, director Martin Scorsese and New York governor Mario Cuomo.

Janice Hadlow, controller of BBC Four, said: "I am thrilled we can bring 'Tanner on Tanner' to BBC Four audiences. The fantastic wit and style of this new series sits perfectly with the rest of BBC Four's output."

'Tanner on Tanner' and 'Tanner 88' will be broadcast on BBC Four in the run-up to the US Presidential elections in November.

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