Jack Thorne on Adapting “Lord of the Flies” as a Limited Series

Jack Thorne sat down with Jim Halterman for In Creative Company to discuss his vision as writer and showrunner for the new Netflix limited series adaptation of William Golding's Lord of the Flies. While utilizing television's own unique vocabulary, he sought to faithfully translate the book's four-act structure into a compelling episodic arc.

Bringing the story's four principal boys to life required meticulous casting and intensive preparation, including reviewing 7000 auditions with the assistance of casting partners Nina Gold and Marin Ware. Thorne sought an ensemble with the necessary chemistry to ensure an authentic dynamic. Additionally, navigating the show's demanding material required not only the skills to bring the text and subtext to life but the commitment to doing so on a harsh, isolated island set. Once on set, the ethical duty of care for the young cast backstage was provided by the director and acting coaches, who were there to guide the boys through the brutal scenes.

Reflecting on his creative process, Thorne spoke of his love for the promise and possibility of a blank page. He praised co-collaborators for this series who helped him through the process and inspired many elements of the show, including series director Marc Munden, whom he calls a "magician." Thorne also credits Golding's daughter Judy Carver for shaping decisions regarding changes that deepen emotional resonance without straying from Golding's core vision, including giving Piggy a name and framing Ralph as mixed-race.

The conversation wrapped up with a discussion of the project's reception, Thorne's relationship with the craft of writing, and many of Thorne's personal inspirations. A true love of stories enabled Jack Thorne to lead a cast that not only endured but blossomed under demanding conditions and a production team that, with reverence and fearless invention, brought the beloved text to life.

Watch the full conversation below!