BBC turns to Life on Mars team for archaeological drama

by Staff, Brand Republic 29-Aug-07, 10:55

LONDON - The BBC has commissioned a six-part drama called 'Bone Kickers', which will tap into the 'Da Vinci Code' appetite for investigating history and will have a biblical puzzle at its heart.

The six part 'Bone Kickers' has been created by Matthew Graham and Ashley Pharoah of Monastic Productions, the writers and creators of 'Life On Mars' and the upcoming spin off 'Ashes To Ashes'.

Set in Bath, the drama follows Gillian and her team of archaeologists and forensic scientists who extract bodies, books, weapons and all manner of artefacts, which lead them into an investigation of the past that will unlock dangers and mysteries in the present.

From the excavation of murdered 18th century slaves to the possible discovery of the True Cross, each episode presents not only a window on history, but on the present as well.

Running through it all is an arc that is described simply as "greatest treasure in the history of man", which pits Gillian against her academic nemesis TV historian Daniel Mastif. The chase for the ultimate puzzle will culminate at the end of series one in a desperate and possibly destructive race for glory.

Polly Hill, BBC commissioning editor for independent drama, said: "'Bone Kickers' takes history and archaeology and makes it sexy, accessible and exciting."

'Bone Kickers' is being produced by Monastic Productions and Mammoth Screen and will air on BBC One in spring 2008.