ITV4 acquires web sci-fi show Sanctuary from Stargate creators

by Staff Brand Republic 08-Apr-08, 10:00

LONDON - ITV4 has acquired new sci-fi series 'Sanctuary' from the creators of 'Stargate: SG-1', which is the first high definition science fiction web series to transfer to TV.

The 13-part show, which stars 'Stargate: SG-1' actress Amanda Tapping, is the first television series to use live action filmed against mostly green-screen virtual sets using the same cutting-edge style seen in films such as '300' and 'Sin City'.

The result gives the show a graphic novel tone that blends detailed 3D backgrounds with live action and game-style cinematics.

The debut of the show on ITV4 also marks the start of a growing trend for programmes first shown on the internet to make the leap to TV.

In 'Sanctuary's' case that is partly possible as it was shot in high definition. When the show first launched online in May 2007 more than 500,000 people viewed the 20-minute series pilot within the first month.

Tapping stars as Dr. Helen Magnus, a 157-year old physician who studies monsters and is on a mission to finish her father's work and unlock the secrets behind human evolution using a unique combination of science, medicine and her own knowledge of the supernatural. She is supported by two sidekicks: psychiatrist and reluctant protege Will Zimmerman, played by Robin Dunne from 'Species 3' and 'Dawson’s Creek'; and her daughter Ashley played by Emilie Ullerup, who has appeared in 'Battlestar Galactica'

The deal to acquire 'Sanctuary' for ITV4 was brokered by Jay Kandola, ITV's director of acquisitions for Dave Fewings, channel editor for ITV4.

Fewings said: "Coming from the team behind Stargate and starring Amanda Tapping, 'Sanctuary' really couldn't have a better sci-fi pedigree. It already has a great online following and with over 90% of the series shot on green screen it's absolutely at the cutting edge of the genre. I'm looking forward to premiering it on ITV4 as a key title in our sci-fi portfolio."

'Sanctuary' is produced by Stage 3 Media in association with the Sci Fi Channel in the USA.