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Writers' Spec Script Unlocks '12 Monkeys' TV Show
23 Apr
Summary
- Writers Matalas and Fickett had their spec script noticed by producers.
- Their spec script focused on a time-travel conspiracy approach.
- Producers were previously unable to adapt '12 Monkeys' for TV.
The writing duo responsible for the 2015 Syfy series '12 Monkeys,' Terry Matalas and Travis Fickett, found their way to the project through an unexpected route. While their past work included contributions to 'Star Trek: Enterprise' and 'Terra Nova,' it was a spec script that brought them to the attention of '12 Monkeys' producers.
Spec scripts are typically written to demonstrate a writer's talent, not necessarily for immediate production. However, Matalas and Fickett's time-travel script impressed producers who were already considering a television adaptation of the '12 Monkeys' film. "They had been working on turning '12 Monkeys' into a TV series for some time but were never able to crack it," Matalas explained.
This particular script highlighted their unique take on a time-travel conspiracy, a concept that resonated strongly with the production team. Their creative vision proved to be the missing element that allowed the '12 Monkeys' series to finally move forward.
