UK looks to Isolation Stories

UK networks are drawing inspiration from the current lockdown situation.

ITV has announced Isolation Stories, four drama shorts from writer and producer Jeff Pope (Philomena, Stan & Ollie, A Confession, Little Boy Blue).

15 minute episodes will reflect what families are going through after weeks of lockdown, featuring moments that are funny, sad, heartwarming and poignant.

Each will also be filmed in conditions that production teams has never faced before.

Executive Producer Jeff Pope said, “Like everybody else I have been isolating at home, and in my case watching my wife suffering badly with the virus. I wanted to do something to catch the mood. I knew it would be very difficult to try and shoot dramas in these circumstances, but I felt the public would understand if things were a little rough and ready, if we at least had a go.”

Executive Producer Tom Dunbar said, “Exceptional circumstances require us to think in a brand new way about creating drama. Our priorities are the safety of all involved in the production and finding a way to work within all the restrictions to create something relevant and resonant.”

ITV’s Head of Drama, Polly Hill, said, “It’s amazing that Jeff has managed to make these short films so quickly, to reflect the times we are living in. These are moving and funny tales of isolation with an incredibly talented team on and off screen. They are stories told from isolation to an audience in isolation. It’s not often drama can be made this quickly so huge thanks to everyone involved in making this happen and I hope they bring some joy to the audience, in what we know are difficult times.”

No Australian broadcaster has been confirmed as yet.