This Paramount+ series is an adaptation of the best-selling novel of the same name by Elizabeth Macneal. The novel was a top best-seller in The Times of London, and has been translated into 30 languages. The author is also an EP on the show.
This streaming production is set in London in 1850 and tells the story of Iris, who paints dolls for a living alongside her twin sister, Rose, and those in their orbit, such as taxidermist Silas, who dreams of finding an item so unique he will be catapulted to fame, and painter Louis, who is searching for his next muse.
When Iris meets Silas, and then Louis, she is offered an opportunity to escape and start a new life. To do so, she must abandon her sister, sacrifice her reputation and launch herself into the unknown. But as Iris’ world expands, a story of dark obsession begins to unfold.
This project has been adapted by British screenwriter Charley Miles for the small screen. Sacha Polak (“Hanna”, “Dirty God”) is directing the series, with Cathy Brady (“Wildfire”) directing episodes four and five.
Cineflix Rights will be distributing the series internationally and public broadcasters SBS in Australia, and New Zealand’s TVNZ have already pre-bought the historic thriller.
Filming for “The Doll Factory” has started on location in and around Dublin, Ireland, and will continue through to 2023.
The series was ordered for Paramount+ by Sebastian Cardwell, deputy chief content officer for the U.K. at Paramount. “The Doll Factory” is among the 150 international original commissions planned for Paramount+ by 2025.