AMC has greenlitNational Anthem, an eight-episode musical anthology series created by Contagion writerScott Z. Burns, and executive produced byMark Johnson, who won an Oscar forRain Manand a pair of Emmys forBreaking Bad, the network announced Tuesday.
National Anthemis described as a tragically funny musical dramedy about a middle class midwestern family tumbling down the ladder of American society who periodically burst into song as they struggle to catch themselves.
Oscar winnerT Bone Burnett(Crazy Heart) is attached as the series' music producer, with words and music byCraig Finnof the rock band The Hold Steady.
National Anthemis the first series greenlit under Johnson’s multi-year overall deal with AMC Studios, through which he will continue to develop new series for the company, as well as potential third-party buyers. Johnson’s overall deal expands his existing relationship with AMC Networks and AMC Studios, as he currently serves as an executive producer on AMC’s critically-acclaimed dramaBetter Call Saul. He previously executive produced its Emmy-winning dramaBreaking Bad, as well asHalt and Catch Fire, not to mention SundanceTV’sRectify.
“National Anthemis a family drama with deep resonant things to say about the fragility of our country, our world and our planet. Plus… it’s a musical! In Scott’s genius hands, this results in a hugely original, intense, funny and moving piece of writing,” saidSarah Barnett, president of AMC Networks’ Entertainment Group and AMC Studios. “We’re so happy to work with Scott as he brings this unique story to life and absolutely delighted to continue our creative partnership with Mark, who we have been so lucky to work with on some of the most critically acclaimed series over the last decade.”
“Craig, T Bone and I are thrilled to be working with Mark and AMC. We are so grateful for the chance to write about this moment in time and surround our characters with songs,” said Burns. “Sarah and Susie and everyone at AMC should be celebrated for their vision in saying ‘yes’ to this.”
“I still can’t believe that AMC and I have been able to assemble this dream team of storytellers,” said Johnson. “We are poised to create something both singular and entertaining, told with moments, dialogue and song.”
Burns has been in the news of recent weeks thanks to his prophetic 2011 dramaContagion, which has become one of America’s most popular films in recent weeks as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. He has written several otherSteven Soderberghfilms, such asThe Informant!,Side EffectsandThe Laundromat. Burns also wroteThe Bourne UltimatumforPaul Greengrass, and he recently directed theAdam DriverdramaThe Reportfor Amazon.
Johnson recently producedVince Gilligan’sBreaking BadmovieEl CaminostarringAaron Paul, and his upcoming movies include the serial killer thrillerThe Little Thingsstarring Oscar winnersDenzel Washington,Rami MalekandJared Leto.
Burnett has endless experience as a musician, and his TV credits include HBO’sTrue Detectiveand the first season of ABC’sNashville. Meanwhile, Finn launched The Hold Steady in 2003 and released his first book – a collection of his lyrics titledI Can’t Keep Saying Thank You– last year.
To listen to the Collider.com podcast aboutContagionin relation to the current coronavirus pandemic,click here.
