Even though we're still technically under the cloud of a pandemic currently, it's not stopped TV and movie productions from using it as a creative launchpad.
While some movies have shifted their production around it - like Netflix's upcoming drama, 'Malcolm & Marie', or the laughably bad 'Songbird' - some seem to be actively taking it on as a topic, with the first production on the UK government's response already in the works.
'This Sceptred Isle' will take place in the early days of the pandemic and according to a synopsis seen by Deadline will be "based on the first-hand testimony of people including those from Number 10 Downing Street, the Department of Health, The Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE), and from hospitals and care homes across the country."
The title, as well, comes from 'Richard II' where John Gaunt describes England as 'this royal throne of kings, this sceptred isle, this earth of majesty, this seat of Mars'. With that Shakesperean influence, it's no wonder then that director Michael Winterbottom has lined up none other than Kenneth Branagh to play UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson.
The five-part series will go to Sky Drama, with no air date currently set. However, in the statement announcing the series, Winterbottom explained his reasons behind the show. "The first wave of the Covid-19 pandemic will be remembered forever. A time when the country came together to battle an invisible enemy. A time when people were more aware than ever of the importance of community. Our series weaves together countless true stories – from Boris Johnson in Number 10 to front line workers around the country – chronicling the efforts of scientists, doctors, care home workers and policymakers to protect us from the virus."
Winterbottom's previous directing credits include 'The Trip' with Steve Coogan and Rob Brydon, 2019's 'Greed', '24-Hour Party People', '9 Songs', and 'A Cock and Bull Story'.
