Essie Davis, Ann Dowd to star in Lambs of God.

Essie Davis and Ann Dowd (Handmaid’s Tale, The Leftovers) will star in Foxtel’s upcoming drama Lambs of God.

The 4 part drama, by Lingo Pictures & Endemol Shine, centres around three eccentric, secluded nuns living on a remote island, forgotten by time and the Church – until a priest unwittingly happens upon them.

The cast also includes UK actor Jessica Barden and Sam Reid.

Based on the novel by Sydney author, Marele Day, it will begin filming at FOX Studios this week.

Jeffrey Walker is director, Sarah Lambert is writer, and notably, Don McAlpine is director of photography.

Producers are Jason Stephens, Sarah Lambert & Elisa Argenzio with Helen Bowden, Penny Win, Mark Fennessy & Carl Fennessy as executive producers.

Foxtel Head of Drama Penny Win said: “Lambs of God is a lush, evocative drama that is both ancient and incredibly modern, with its timeless message of resilience, and the power of story- telling as a redemptive force.

Marele Day’s unique novel stayed with me long after I’d finished reading it, and screenwriter SarahLamberthastakenthestoryandenricheditinwaysthatarefreshandengaging.At every creative level, the talent attached to this project is world-class, and we are very proud to be working with Lingo Pictures to bring to life this truly unique series.”

Lingo Pictures Producer Jason Stephens said: “There are few stories as original as Lambs of God. Pitched to Foxtel as ‘Feral Nuns in a Monastery,’ this is a once in a lifetime opportunity to deliver something that is truly different to any other drama produced before in Australia. Lambs of God is already generating an enormous buzz thanks to its compelling script and the prestigious cast and crew that it has attracted. It’s a joy to work with Foxtel and have their unwavering support as we start to roll cameras on this moving, thrilling and often darkly humourous tale.”

Sky Vision Scripted Acquisition Manager Moreyba Bidessie said: “Lambs of God is such a unique and distinct story – and with Lingo Pictures and Foxtel at the helm, will be beautifully realised. And we are nothing but delighted to be representing the show internationally. We feel, that with the incredible line-up of international cast – alongside the top notch creative team – it will have huge appeal to many markets around the world.”

Updated.