The upcoming Westworld TV series is one of HBO’s most anticipated drama projects in years. But it may be another year before audiences finally get to see it.
According to a story in The Hollywood Reporter, Westworld’s production break in November was more than it initially appeared to be. THR contends that HBO and showrunner Jonathan Nolan clashed for creative control over Westworld. The report doesn’t exactly make Nolan look good as it states “Nolan is said to be every bit as controlling as his filmmaker brother Chris. Sources say cuts came in slowly, scripts started running behind, and it became apparent that episodes already shot needed tweaks requiring additional filming.”
The report also notes that the two sides may have come together after “HBO persuaded Nolan to ‘put aside his ego,’” and bring in additional producers and writers. But with production slated to resume in March, a summer debut for Westworld could be in doubt. Last night, JoBlo reported that HBO wants to use the season finale of Game of Thrones as a launching pad for Westworld, but it’s hard to see how that could happen if Westworld season 1 isn’t even finished yet.
Potentially, Westworld could still run in the fall or early winter, but THR seems to lean more towards a 2017 debut for the series. Westworld is a reboot of the 1973 film by Michael Crichton that takes place in a theme park populated by androids who are on the verge of self-awareness. The cast includes Anthony Hopkins, Evan Rachel Wood, Ed Harris, James Marsden, Jeffrey Wright, Thandie Newton, Ben Barnes, Shannon Woodward, and Rodrigo Santoro.
Should HBO release Westworld this year? Or should the creative team take the time to make any necessary changes? Share your opinions below!
