Harlan Coben’s ‘The Woods’ Receives Exciting New UK Adaptation

Netflix is set to adapt another gripping tale from Harlan Coben, this time with a fresh UK version of ‘The Woods’. As reported by Tudum, the eight-episode limited series is currently in production in Manchester and throughout the North West of England.

Based on Coben’s 2007 novel, the story centers on Paul “Cope” Copeland, a man still affected by his sister’s mysterious disappearance during a summer camp trip two decades ago. When a body is discovered that ties back to the old case, Cope begins to suspect that his sister might still be alive. His quest for the truth uncovers long-buried secrets.

The adaptation is penned by Danny Brocklehurst, known for his work on various successful Coben adaptations for Netflix, including ‘Fool Me Once’, ‘Run Away’, and ‘Stay Close’. Netflix is collaborating with Quay Street Productions, a division of ITV Studios, to produce the series.

Tom Bateman stars as Paul Copeland, with Michelle Keegan portraying Lucy Silverfield. The ensemble cast also features Mandeep Dhillon, Pearce Quigley, James Buckley, Tracy-Ann Oberman, Rade Sherbedgia, among others.

In a conversation with Tudum, Coben shared the personal significance of ‘The Woods’ to him after nearly twenty years. “It’s one of my most personal novels,” he remarked. “Like the story’s hero, Paul Copeland, I worked as a counselor at a sleepaway camp when I was too young for the job.”

Bateman expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “Harlan Coben’s shows are always such gripping events, so the opportunity to be part of his world is really exciting,” adding that the narratives are rich and intriguing, often involving ghosts and secrets that lead characters to unexpected places.

Keegan described her character Lucy as emotionally layered and distinct from her role in ‘Fool Me Once’. “Lucy is a totally different character to Maya,” she noted. “She’s a little damaged and never found true peace.”

Brocklehurst highlighted the emotional bonds between characters as a key attraction to the story. He aims to emphasize sibling relationships while maintaining the mystery and suspense that Coben’s works are celebrated for.

Coben also commended the cast, particularly Bateman and Keegan, stating, “Tom is such a huge talent and the perfect leading man,” and added, “You can’t take your eyes off either one of them. They are the ideal Paul and Lucy.”

While Netflix has yet to announce a release date, filming is actively taking place in the UK. The series will be directed by Andy De Emmony and Claire Tailyour.

‘The Woods’ adds to Netflix’s expanding roster of Harlan Coben adaptations, which now includes productions in various languages. According to Tudum, another adaptation titled ‘I Will Find You’ is also anticipated to premiere on Netflix later this year.

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