Lena Dunham is returning to HBO, but not in the type of series you’d expect from the filmmaker. The “Girls” creator is veering from her typical, female-focused drama roots and venturing into the world of competitive international finance, in the new series “Industry.”
READ MORE: Lena Dunham To Write A Syrian Refugee Film For Producers Steven Spielberg & J.J. Abrams
According to Deadline, Dunham has signed on to executive produce and direct the first episode of “Industry.” The series is also being produced by Bad Wolf, the production company that is bringing the Philip Pullman novel series, “His Dark Materials,” to the premium network. “Industry” will be co-written by Mickey Down and Konrad Kay, who are best known for their work on the series “You, Me, The Apocalypse.”
“Industry” has been picked up for an eight-episode run and tells the story of a group of ambitious 20-somethings in London that want to secure their futures by entering the competitive world of international finance. As is seen in this sort of premise before, the group begins to fracture as some succeed and others don’t, in a company culture filled with sex, drugs, and ego. Down and Kay are uniquely qualified to help bring this story to life thanks to their experience on the trading floor.
“Mickey and Konrad’s talent, drive and commitment was obvious to us the moment we met them,” said Bad Wolf co-founder Jane Tranter. “The scripts for Industry have an energy and direction that comes from their first-hand experience of the trading floor and their ear for sharp dialogue immediately captured our attention. We’re excited to be making their first TV drama series with HBO – who are never afraid to make bold decisions and support new talent.”
No word on when we might see “Industry” hit HBO, but production is said to begin in Wales later this summer.
