BritBox’s First Drama Hits Isle of Wight – The Beast Must Die Begins Filming
BritBox UK is kicking off production on its very first original drama, The Beast Must Die, starting Monday on the scenic Isle of Wight. Filming will run for eleven weeks, marking a bold step for the streaming service’s scripted content.
Star-Studded Cast & Big Names Behind the Scenes
The five-part British revenge thriller is a collaboration between New Regency Television International and Ridley Scott’s Scott Free. Notable names involved include director Dome Karukoski (Tolkien), and screenwriter Gaby Chiappe (Their Finest, Vera). The cast features BAFTA winner Jared Harris (Chernobyl), Cush Jumbo OBE (The Good Wife), Geraldine James (Back to Life), Maeve Dermody (Carnival Row), and fresh faces Mia Tomlinson and Barney Sayburn.
Top industry pros join the team:
- Producer: Sarada McDermott (Bridgerton)
- Casting Director: Kate Rhodes James (Line of Duty)
- Director of Photography: Joel Devlin (His Dark Materials)
- Production Designers: Beck Rainford, Linda Wilson
- Costume Designer: Colleen Kelsall (Tolkien)
- Make Up & Hair: Jill Sweeney
- Editors: Mike Jones, Dan Roberts
- 1st Assistant Director: Tom Bassett (Bridgerton)
Covid-Safe Set with Strict Protocols
Filming is operating under strict Covid-19 safety protocols. Cast and crew must wear masks when not filming scenes. Regular testing, daily temperature checks, and health screenings are in place. The production uses small ‘pods’ to limit contact and keep everyone safe during the shoot.
Director & Writer Reveal What Drives the Drama
Dome Karukoski said, “Gaby tricked me. I never thought I’d get so hooked on a grieving mother’s vendetta, but I did. The story made me ask if the true beast is the target of revenge or the fury within ourselves.”
“The production’s safety measures allow us to tell this intense story with respect during tough times. I can’t wait to see stars like Cush, Jared, Billy, and the iconic Geraldine James pour their souls into these characters.”
Screenwriter Gaby Chiappe added, “This novel combines thriller excitement with complex characters and real emotion. I’ve tried to bring that to the screen, over 80 years since the book was published. Working through the lockdown, and now filming under restrictions, has made this project very special.”
The Beast Must Die will premiere exclusively on BritBox UK in 2021. Keep your eyes peeled for this gripping tale of revenge and inner demons.
