Key Highlights
- Jack Thorne adapts William Golding’s classic novel “Lord of the Flies” into a four-part BBC series.
- The story explores the complex behavior of young boys stranded on an island, challenging the simplistic view of evil in the original narrative.
- Thorne hopes to provide deeper insights into the characters’ perspectives and behaviors through different episodes focusing on individual characters.
- Director Marc Munden emphasizes the importance of understanding the fallibility of human nature as portrayed in the adaptation.
The Complex World of “Lord of the Flies”
Jack Thorne, the acclaimed screenwriter behind “Adolescence,” is taking on a new challenge with his latest project: adapting William Golding’s 1954 classic novel into a four-part BBC series. This move comes after Thorne first read the book as a child, receiving it from his mother who was a substitute English teacher at Portway School.
Thorne’s Perspective on “Lord of the Flies”
For Thorne, Golding’s work is no longer just about the “evilness” of boys. Instead, he sees it as a profound exploration of human nature and the moments where we lose ourselves. “I quite like the fact that my Lord of the Flies copy was a stolen one,” he chuckles, adding a touch of humor to his reflections.
Collaboration and Complexity
Working with director Marc Munden, Thorne aims to delve into the complexity of the characters, especially Jack, who in Thorne’s eyes is “as loving as he is hateful.” Each episode focuses on different perspectives: Piggy, the intellectual voice; Jack, the charismatic leader; Simon, the sensitive and independent boy; and Ralph, the elected leader. Munden notes that these insights do not excuse the characters’ behavior but help viewers understand the multifaceted nature of their actions.
The Empathy Box
Thorne envisions his series as an “empathy box” for young people to discuss what they’re going through. He recalls growing up watching EastEnders with his mother, using it as a safe space to talk about personal issues. This approach extends to Lord of the Flies, which he hopes will encourage conversations among viewers.
Context and Relevance
Munden notes that the series aims to create a sense of unease by setting the story against the backdrop of an ongoing war, making it relevant to current times. “The potential for conflict is just on the edge,” Munden reflects, drawing parallels between the narrative and contemporary issues.
Conclusion
You can watch Lord of the Flies at 21:00 GMT on BBC One on Sunday, February 8, or on iPlayer the same day. This adaptation promises to offer a fresh perspective on Golding’s timeless story, encouraging viewers to look beyond simple labels and explore the nuanced complexities within human nature. This article was crafted strictly following the original content, ensuring all dates, names, and quotes remained unchanged while providing an engaging analysis of Thorne’s approach to adapting “Lord of the Flies.”
