James Patterson, the author of the Alex Cross novels being adapted into a new TV series, shared his thoughts on the show that offers fans a new story. Cross will be released in November on Prime Video.
Stars Crossed Aldis Hodge (Black Adam, Hidden Figures) as the titular character who uses forensic psychology to analyze the minds of killers, delving into the psyches of their victims to identify the killers and bring them to justice. Writer Ben Watkins (Burn warning) chose not to directly adapt any of Patterson's original books for the series, instead offering fans new material. Speaking to Entertainment Weekly, Watkins revealed, “I said I wasn't going to do any of the seasons based on the book. I thought it was really important to give the fans a new offering, that we honor the characters and the world so that they feel like they're getting what they signed up for, but also that we give them a new story. They'll get what those books give.”
Patterson was thrilled with Watkins' choice to provide new content with the Cross television series.It's something I say when someone is developing one of my books or characters: I much prefer the story to be completely new,” Patterson told EW. “I was hoping that the show would be a departure and not dependent on the book, and it was.” Patterson also praised Hodge's performance, saying, “He's great at portraying the issues of trying to be a detective and raise a family in this country at this time. And he has some of that charismaalso. What do the kids call him? Rizz?”
The TV series Cross explores racial tensions between the police and the black community
Aldis Hodge spoke to EW about how the Through The TV series will address the tensions between the police and the black community. The topic will be addressed in the first episode of the series.[Alex Cross] He understands what's done well, what's not done well. What defines him is his moral fiber,” Hodge said.Sometimes you find yourself between a rock and a hard place.. His life is not easy because he has to enforce the rules, but he also has to enforce them for his community because he understands that without that badge, he could find himself on the wrong side of the rules.”
Through creator Ben Watkins commented that the series will not “gloss over” the issue. “I thought it was really important not to avoid it. We're not here to preach, we're here to tell the truth from both sides. One of the rules of the [writers’] room was that both sides would have to present a winning argument. When you get a chance to watch all of Season 1, you’ll see how committed we were to honoring the truths of the complicated relationship between law enforcement and the Black community.”
Through debuts November 14 on Prime Video.
Source: Entertainment Weekly