Stephen King’s 2019 novelThe Instituteis the latest title from the author’s extensive library to be picked up for adaptation on TV, in this case as an 8-part mini-series for MGM+. The new series will join several other prominent King projects either in development, production, or due for release soon. Originally set to be adapted by Spyglass Media, this will be a completely new venture, with a new production team after the original version failed to materialize.
With elements of classic King storytelling,The Institutefeatures extraordinary children, a shady organization, and very subtle hints that the story could be linked toKing’s Dark Tower universe– even though there are no specific links in the story itself. As perDeadline, the series will begin production later this year, with filming set to take place in Nova Scotia, Canada under the direction of Jack Bender, who has previously had experience with King’s work through the successfulMr. Mercedesseries, as well as being executive producer on CBS’sUnder The Domeand HBO’sThe Outsider. The show has also enlisted Benjamin Cavell as writer, who worked on the TV adaptation of King’s dystopian epic,The Stand.
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King himself is thrilled to see Bender and Cavell teaming up to bringThe Instituteto screens, saying:
“I’m delighted and excited at the prospect of The Institute, with its high-intensity suspense, being filmed as a series. The combination of Jack Bender and Ben Cavell guarantees that the results will be terrific.”
When it comes to acting talent, Shadow and Bone starBen Barneswill lead the series as the former police officer Tim Jamieson, who becomes embroiled in the shadowy work of The Institute though Luke, a 12-year-old who is abducted from his home to be taken to the facility of the title to be observed and used for his supernatural abilities.Mary-Louise Parkerwill join Barnes on the show as The Institute’s chief, who believes that the work they do is for the greater good as she takes orders from a much higher power.
The Institute Can be the Next Big Stephen King Hit
For several decades, Stephen King adaptations were often full of hokum and dubious monster special effects, with the odd exception on the way. However, the last decade has produced some of thebiggest and most successful King adaptationsof his career.
From Andy Muschietti’s big-screen adaptation ofIT– which is soon expanding with a prequel TV show,Welcome to Derry– through TV shows based onThe OutsiderandThe Stand, to upcoming offerings such asThe Life of Chuck, The Running Man, Fairy Tale, and Mike Flanagan’s take onThe Dark Tower, there are very few times when a new King movie or show is not in production somewhere. MGM+ previously were responsible for King-inspired seriesChapelwaite, which starred Adrien Brody.
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Bender and Cavell offered their own statements on their appointment to the new series, sharing their excitement to be working together on the adaptation. Bender said:
“I’m thrilled that Stephen King has entrusted me with another of his brilliant novels and continuing the extraordinary creative relationship with Michael Wright and MGM+. Working alongside Ben Cavell and a team of exceptional writers, to tell the story of these uniquely gifted children, will ensure a suspenseful and engrossing series.”
Meanwhile, Cavell added:
“It is my great honor to have another chance to adapt Stephen King, who has been generous and collaborative beyond my wildest imaginings. Also, the opportunity to work with Jack Bender, who has directed some of my all-time favorite television, is truly a dream come true. I couldn’t be more grateful to Michael Wright and MGM for putting this team together.”
WhileThe Institutedoes not have an official premiere date, it is expected to arrive sometime in 2025.
