The adaptation is an attempt to "weave global threads into the tapestry" of Indian culture.
Yes Studios’ crime drama Magpie will soon be adapted for Sony LIV. This will be the third of its scripted titles to be taken up by Sony LIV, following the resounding success of the Studios’ previous Indian adaptations of Your Honor and Fauda (Tanaav) on its platform. The new series will be titled Kan Khajura which means centipede.
Magpie has been produced by Yes TV and Dana Eden and Shula Spiegel at Donna & Shula Productions (Tehran). The series won Best Screenplay at the Berlin TV Series Festival in 2019 and was nominated for Best International Series and Best Performance at the same event.
It tells the story of Asa Katz, a man serving 17 years in prison for murder who gets released early on the condition that he cooperates with the police as their informant – a role (known as a magpie) that he also had in jail. Asa returns to his old neighbourhood but finds himself torn between his life of crime and his work with the police, while skilfully navigating both worlds to his advantage.
Speaking on the adaptation, Sharon Levi, managing director of Yes Studios, commented: “We are honoured that this new format deal for Magpie means Sony LIV will soon become home to a third of our drama series. With its key themes of sibling conflict and a desire for a fresh start while constantly being pulled back into an old life, Magpie’s characters and storylines are instantly recognisable – and ripe for adaptation. We look forward to working with the Sony LIV team as it develops the series for its audience and cannot wait to view the final programme once it has been completed.”
Saugata Mukherjee, head of content of Sony LIV, said: “With the Indian adaptation of Magpie, we are aiming to weave global threads into the tapestry of our culture. The character is complex and piques the viewers’ interest with a compelling storyline. We are happy to collaborate with yes Studios once again to bring forth this highly acclaimed thriller.”
