A new trailer for TBS’ upcoming Snowpiercer gave audiences their first look at the series reboot of the 2013 film of the same name.
The trailer for Snowpiercer debuted at the recent 2019 San Diego Comic-Con, giving fans their first look at the star-studded cast of the series, including Jennifer Connelly (Alita: Battle Angel, Spider-Man: Homecoming), Steven Ogg (The Walking Dead, Grand Theft Auto V) and Daveed Diggs (Velvet Buzzsaw, Hamilton), as well as a look at the environment inside the titular Snowpiercer train:
The series is intended as a reboot of the 2013 film of the same name, originally directed by Bong Joon-Ho and features numerous changes from the original film, including swapping the character of Minister Mason (formerly played by Tilda Swinton) to Jennifer Connelly’s Melanie Cavill, the introduction of new characters such as Pixi Aariak and Bess Till, and the swapping of the series’ protagonist’s race.
However, it is notable that Jong-Ho’s film also differed greatly from the original 1982 French “bande dessinée” (graphic novel) titled Le Transperceneige, notably by removing a biological virus from the plot and altering the ending, which saw the protagonist accepting his role as the new caretaker of the train’s engine. Other changes featured in the trailer, such as an emphasis on romance and intra-personal connections, are most likely done to fully utilize the extended, episodic format afforded to the series, as opposed to the tight, hour-and-a-half previously afforded to the story.
The series has also had it’s share of problems during the development process. Originally written by Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles and Emerald City creator Josh Friedman, Friedman left Snowpiercer due to alleged “creative differences” with the network. When Orphan Black co-creator Graeme Mason was brought on to replace Friedman, Doctor Strange and Snowpiercer pilot director Scott Derrickson refused to return for reshoots, noting that Friedman’s original script was “best I’ve ever read”.
Snowpiercer is set for a Spring 2020 release, though no specific date has yet to be provided. Although the series is yet to air, TBS has confirmed that the series has been renewed for a second season.