So… it has been a while since I last posted any news because, at the moment there’s not a lot I can say about what I’m working on for contractual reasons. But that is a *good* thing. However, I’m going to try – without being too cryptic – to give you an update on stuff:
TV-wise I have been focussed on two projects at opposite ends of the age scale.
The first is my primetime crime drama Surface Tension which I have been developing with the fantastic people at Chrysalis Vision – especially Head of Development Adam Leatherland – for the past few months.
Working for and with a producer who not only shares your vision but can improve it while also believing in your capabilities is an incredibly positive, fruitful and rewarding experience.
(I have also been earmarked as a staff writer on a new live action show that will be going into production very soon. As with everything in this business, however, nothing is concrete until it’s actually happening!)
The second of my shows is an animation show for Cartoon Network. I can’t reveal much more but it was pitched back in January with some amazing visuals from my friend Howard Rushfirth (one of the two fab people behind Captain Extraordinary, for whom I wrote the pilot a few years back). Howard is a very intuitive designer and he and I are like peas in a pod fandoms-wise. We’re also both bald. Read into that what you will.
This is the second time that I have had the pleasure of doing what I refer to as a “George Lucas” in that I am steering, choosing and tweaking the design for my characters – just as I have been for Rob, my creator-owned IP graphic novel for Legendary Entertainment which continues to be written, drawn and inked ahead of its release later this year.
Also for Legendary, my Lost in Space comics have been coming out as beautiful hardback graphic novels.
The first entry from me was “Secrets” which was released in time for Christmas last year. As these stories goes along my excitement for them is greater than the last and the next instalment will be hitting the shelves later this month on the 22nd May. It’s a rip-roarer of an adventure for Will called “Quality Time” and I can’t say much more than that. But I am most excited about the third volume, which hits shelves around SDCC time. You’ll see why…
“What about Doctor Who?’ I hear you say!
Well… I have been working on some projects that might have a 13th Doctor connection. But even that is probably saying too much! And we’ll just have to see if any of them see the light of day. Sonics crossed for that.
I am also writing new IP for a comics publisher, and an announcement on that should be forthcoming relatively soon. It’s been an exciting ride thus far and there is more to come.
I am also working on my first game writing and developing other shows – one with a UK broadcaster; the other with a US production company. I am also moving forward with new spec TV scripts, comics and novels.
So, if it appears to be a bit silent over here it’s because I am like the proverbial swan (I know, I know: bear with me on this):
On the surface it might all seem quiet and serene but there’s tension and froth beneath as I paddle away like a loon! 😀
Richard Dinnick 