Mammals - What We Know So Far
Amazon is bringing another U.K. TV show to life with "Mammals," a six-episode series set to feature the host of "The Late Late Show With James Corden" and Sally Hawkins, the star of the Academy Award winning "The Shape of Water."
News of the program came from a press release obtained by Deadline, through which fans learned a few more details about what to expect from the series when it arrives. The show was created by Jez Butterworth, an experienced writer and filmmaker who penned the scripts for the James Bond film "Spectre," as well as the upcoming "Indiana Jones 5."
While a lot about "Mammals" remains up in the air, some important clues are hidden in the press release itself. Beyond that, some rumors about the project might help cast some light on what viewers will see when the show premiers. Here is everything we know about the release date, cast, and plot of "Mammals."
When will Mammals release?
Considering "Mammals" was only just announced, it will likely be a while before you have a chance to check it out. However, there has been some forward momentum on the project. If everything falls into place, fans will hopefully be able to enjoy the show sooner rather than later.
Deadline confirmed the endeavor had lined up three contributing production companies: Fulwell 73, owned by James Corden, Street Hassle, which is run by the show's creator and screenwriter, Jez Butterworth, and Vertigo Films, the studio operated by other "Mammals" creator, James Richardson.
In addition, Georgia Brown, who heads the European Originals division of Amazon Studios, said, "This fantastic cast will bring Jez's compelling scripts to life, and we are delighted to be sharing Mammals with Prime Video audiences globally." If Brown is implying that the scripts are ready to go, then there may be few obstacles in the way to begin filming. If that is the case, "Mammals" could start streaming as soon as Spring or Summer 2022.
Who makes up the cast of Mammals?
When "Mammals" was announced via Deadline, Amazon provided a rather generous list of actors set to appear in the series.
At the top of the list are Sally Hawkins, a star of the stage and screen who was nominated for an Oscar for Best Actress in "The Shape of Water," and James Corden, host of "The Late Late Show With James Corden." The "Mammals" press release paid particular attention to the chemistry between Hawkins and Corden, and writer Jez Butterworth encouraged viewers to check out a skit available on YouTube starring the two actors.
"Mammals" will also feature Colin Morgan of "Merlin" and "Humans" fame and Melia Kreiling, who appeared briefly in "Guardians of the Galaxy." Henry Lloyd Hughes, who popped up in "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire," and Samuel Anderson (Danny Pink for 11 episodes of "Doctor Who") round out the cast.
What is the plot of Mammals?
Amazon Studios has kept the premise of "Mammals" a bit under wraps. However, screenwriter Jez Butterworth did provide a broad outline to Deadline that indicates the show may revolve around the challenges faced by married couples.
Butterworth said, "A good marriage is the most magical thing. In a world of eight billion, you've found the one who gets you, ignites your body and soul. Who allows you to grow and flourish. Who gives you the spark, the confidence to become you." While further details of how the show will investigate matrimony have not been provided, a report from The Sun stated that the series was about a troubled marriage and will be set in Cornwall and London.
Beyond that, there isn't much to go on as to what problems the marriage in question might face or how James Corden and Sally Hawkins' characters will try and resolve them. Fans will just have to hold tight until the show's production makes it a bit further along.