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The true crime genre is firmly embedded in our cultural zeitgeist, and now it’s time for Canada’s addition to the vastly growing scene, with Netflix and CBC partnership for a television adaptation of Margaret Atwood’s 1996 Giller Prize-winning historical novel, Alias Grace.

The six-episode miniseries will feature the true story of Grace Marks, who was convicted of murdering employer Thomas Kinnear in 1843.

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To do Atwood’s writing justice, the production team will feature some major Canadian talent. All six episodes will be written and produced by Canuck wunderkind Sarah Polley, who was tapped to write a film adaptation of Little Women last year. Mary Harron, best known for directing American Psycho, will direct.

Said Polley, “Grace Marks, as captured by Margaret Atwood, is the most complex, riveting character I have ever read. I’m thrilled that Mary Harron has taken the project on. I know that her ability to create suspense, tension, and delve into the dark, unknowable aspects of her characters will bring this piece alive.”





“Sarah Polley has done a brilliant adaptation of Margaret Atwood’s classic novel, which combines the richness of period drama with the tension and mystery of a modern day ‘Serial,’” remarked Harron. “It is an honour to be chosen to take this captivating story to the screen and to give new audiences the thrill of watching it unfold.”

Production is scheduled to begin in August. Alias Grace will air on CBC, and stream globally on Netflix.