BBC America is hoping to build on its successes with original programming like "Orphan Black" and "In the Flesh" with another show that taps into the "identity crisis" genre that's worked for it so far. "Intruders" is an hour-long drama set in contemporary America with a paranormal bent, and it looks to continue the network's recent run of hits.
Created by Glen Morgan (best known for his work on "The X-Files") and based on a 2007 novel by Michael Marshall Smith, "Intruders" tells the story of a conspiracy to achieve immortality by allowing a dying person to take over the body of another. The network has been intentionally vague about the show so far, but a new, full-length trailer has been released that takes viewers much deeper into this intriguing world. The trailer shows off a moody, atmospheric thriller with fascinating performances and a mind-bending premise, similar to the vibe of HBO's "The Leftovers" (only with less despair).
Set in the Pacific Northwest — Hollywood's traditional home for all things weird and moody — "Intruders" will slowly peel back the layers of its complex mystery across multiple episodes. The basic idea seems to be that of a secret society who possess the ability to transfer consciousness from a dying body to a living one, effectively stealing the life of another in order to live forever. The trailer shows off the complications that occur with such an endeavor, such as the host body's original consciousness fighting back to regain control, and long-running grudges that can last for multiple lifetimes.
"Intruders" stars John Simm (the original "Life on Mars," the Master on "Doctor Who") as Jack Whelan, a former LAPD officer turned writer with a dark, violent past. Academy Award winner Mira Sorvino stars as Jack's wife Amy Whelan, a lawyer who appears to be one of those whose body is stolen, if the trailer is any indication. The story kicks off when she goes missing. James Frain ("Grimm," "The White Queen") is Richard Shepherd, a murderer who claims to be an FBI agent on a mysterious, 20-year mission. Also starring are Tory Kittles, Millie Brown, and Robert Forster.
The show's first season consists of just eight episodes, but BBC America believes in the show enough to schedule it immediately after Doctor Who's upcoming eighth season. Both shows premiere on Saturday, Aug. 23, 2014. Attendees of San Diego Comic-Con later this week can see the debut episode early at a special screening and panel taking place at 8:00pm on Friday, July 25.
