Damon Lindelof Adapts Kidnap Thriller ‘The Chain’ for HBO Series
Damon Lindelof is returning to the role of showrunner with an adaptation of the kidnap thriller, *The Chain*, for HBO. The Warner Bros. Discovery-owned network has granted a straight-to-series order for this anticipated limited series.
The Chain: A Gripping Synopsis
*The Chain*, based on Adrian McKinty’s 2019 novel, tells a harrowing story. It follows Rachel Klein, a mother confronted with an unimaginable situation when she receives a call from an unknown woman. This caller reveals that Rachel’s daughter, Kylie, has been kidnapped. To save her, Rachel must pay a ransom and abduct another child.
The suspense builds as Rachel learns that the kidnapper is also a mother, deeply influencing her choices. If Rachel fails to follow the caller’s demands, not only will she lose her daughter, but the life of another child will hang in the balance. This story encapsulates the concept of *The Chain*, as each action perpetuates a cycle of fear and desperation.
Damon Lindelof’s Vision
With *The Chain*, Lindelof steps back into the spotlight as a showrunner for the first time since HBO’s *Watchmen*, which aired in 2019. Lindelof, who signed a two-year overall deal with HBO last year, remains an influential figure in contemporary television. He has previously produced projects like Peacock’s *Mrs. Davis* and HBO’s forthcoming superhero series, *Lanterns*.
Production and Creative Team
- Production Companies: Media Res, known for *The Morning Show*, co-produces the series.
- Pilot Story Creators: Lindelof, Carly Wray, and Breannah Gibson are responsible for the pilot story.
- Script Writers: Lindelof and Wray wrote the pilot script.
- Executive Production Team:
- Damon Lindelof
- Michael Ellenberg
- Lindsey Springer
- Shane Salerno
- Adrian McKinty (Co-Executive Producer)
The Journey of the Novel
Adrian McKinty, originally a writer, faced difficulties that led him to quit in 2017. To support his family, he took on jobs as a bartender and Uber driver. His fortunes changed when author Don Winslow encouraged him to return to writing.
In 2020, Universal Pictures opted for a film adaptation with Edgar Wright attached to direct. However, this project did not materialize, leading Media Res to acquire the rights in 2024 to develop *The Chain* into a television series.
A Testament to Collaboration
Lindelof expressed his excitement about adapting McKinty’s story, stating, “From the moment I heard the wild and original premise, I was shocked and intrigued.” He also shared his enthusiasm about reuniting with key collaborators from the HBO team, emphasizing the potential of creating a powerful narrative.
Francesca Orsi, HBO’s executive vice president, praised the partnership with Lindelof, highlighting the series’ promise to deliver an emotionally intense experience. Together, they aim to explore the depths of human psychology through *The Chain*, establishing it as a memorable contribution to HBO’s legacy.
