After departing from Game of Thrones and HBO, D.B. Weiss and David Benioff have moved on to create a new sci-fi series for Netflix titled 3 Body Problem. In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, the duo delved into the project and shared why the show is daunting to them.
Weiss expressed that what intrigued him and Benioff about Game of Thrones was how George R.R. Martin's books brought a new style of storytelling to TV. Although 3 Body Problem is a departure in terms of subject matter, Weiss noted that it shares a similar innovative approach to storytelling.
Weiss and Benioff completed the 3 Body Problem books on their flight back from Japan following their promotional tour for Game of Thrones. "Dan came over to me and asked, 'What do you think?'" Benioff recalled. "I replied, 'Well, that ending is incredible.' And Dan responded, 'We have to do this, right?'"
"It was the first time since Thrones that we had encountered something that truly frightened us. We knew this was going to be challenging," he continued.
The narrative of 3 Body Problem revolves around the arrival of aliens on Earth, who have given humans a 400-year warning. As expected, disagreement arises among the populace regarding the appropriate response to the impending arrival, leading to conflicts. The first season of the series will center on a group of physicists supported by a clandestine intelligence organization, while also delving into a separate plotline involving a cult aiming to ally with the extraterrestrial visitors.
Liam Cunningham, known for his role as Davos on Game of Thrones, portrays one of the intelligence operatives, while Jonathan Pryce, famous for his portrayal of the High Sparrow on Game of Thrones, takes on the role of the cult's leader.
Benioff emphasized that 3 Body Problem shifts its focus to humanity's reaction to a potential existential threat posed by alien arrival, rather than engaging in combat with stereotypical "tentacle monsters."
He further noted, "Unfortunately, recent events have shown that mankind struggles in responding effectively to existential threats. It's difficult to be optimistic and imagine a unified response in such a scenario." Benioff also highlighted that some individuals are drawn to the idea of aliens due to the belief in their superiority, particularly in terms of technology.
Weiss expressed experiencing immense pressure for 3 Body Problem to succeed, while Benioff emphasized the importance of continually proving oneself, regardless of past successes such as Game of Thrones winning numerous awards.
The first season of 3 Body Problem debuts on Netflix on March 21. Additionally, Weiss and Benioff delved into their unsuccessful Star Wars movie and shared insights into what went awry.
Editor's P/S
As a hard fan of Game of Thrones, I am thrilled to hear about the new sci-fi series, 3 Body Problem, created by the same masterminds, D.B. Weiss and David Benioff. The fact that they found the books so intriguing and frightening at the same time piques my curiosity even more. The concept of aliens arriving on Earth and the subsequent societal conflicts sound incredibly captivating. I can't wait to see how Weiss and Benioff bring this complex narrative to life.
The creators' genuine excitement and fear about this new project are palpable, and it's refreshing to see them acknowledge the challenges they face in surpassing the success of Game of Thrones. Their determination to prove themselves once again, despite their past accolades, demonstrates their dedication to their craft. I have full faith in their ability to deliver another groundbreaking series that will keep us on the edge of our seats. The countdown to March 21 begins!