Salman Rusdie's famous novel Midnight's Children, will have a second life, this time on the streaming screens of the giant Netflix. More than 35 years after its publication, the fiction will be adapted into a series.
A serial adaptation of one of the "greatest novels in the world"
According to the Hollywood Reporter's sources, the world's largest streaming platform has just ordered a serial adaptation of Midnight's Children, the book that won the Booker Prize, one of Britain's most prestigious literary awards. If the story had already inspired a film of the same name directed by Deepa Mehta released in 2012, as well as a mini-series broadcast on the BBC, Netflix intends to seize in turn the work known worldwide.
The series would present Saleem, a child born at midnight, the night of India's independence (August 15, 1947), who will see his destiny linked to that of his country. Like him, 1001 children are born that same night, all endowed with supernatural powers. However, born at precisely midnight, it is Saleem who is endowed with the most important power: that of reuniting all these children by telepathy. This gift will get him into a number of troubles.
Erik Barmack, Netflix's global vice president of productions, said Midnight Children remains "one of the greatest novels in the world, and its themes are still relevant to today's India." He adds by certifying that this story continues to "fascinate readers for decades", and admits his impatience at the idea of "adapting this fiction, parallel to the birth of modern India, for an international audience". "The rich experience and talent of Indian creators combined with Netflix's global reach have the potential to bring this story to millions of people around the world," he enthused.
It should be noted that Salman Rushdie, the writer, also delivered his satisfaction on the networks: "I am absolutely delighted that Midnight'sChildren has a new life on Netflix, and I look forward to working with them to help them create."
With its new acquisition, Netflix can probably hope to anchor itself more in the Indian market, and conquer its large billion inhabitants. For now, rediscover the trailer of the adaptation dating from 2012.Â
Midnight Children trailer:
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