Neuromancer at a glance:
- Apple TV+ is currently in production with the Neuromancer series
- Estimated debut is expected next summer at the earliest
- The cast includes Callum Turner, Briana Middleton, and Mark Strong
After successful adaptations of sci-fi classics like Isaac Asimov’s Foundation and Martha Wells’ The Murderbot Diaries, it’s finally time for the influential cyberpunk novel Neuromancer by William Gibson to come to life on Apple TV+.
Despite being considered visionary and the inspiration behind The Matrix and Cyberpunk 2077, Neuromancer has never been filmed. The complex use of technology and settings in the book that create a dream-like or drug-induced atmosphere may have been a challenge for adaptation.
The creators face the task of translating Gibson’s ideas accurately while making the world accessible to a wide audience. They also need to ensure that their vision stands out from previous cyberpunk productions.
Here’s everything you need to know about the upcoming Apple TV+ sci-fi show.
Is the Neuromancer series based on a book?
Yes, the new Apple TV+ series is based on the Sprawl Trilogy by American author William Gibson. The trilogy includes the following novels:
- Neuromancer (1984)
- Count Zero (1986)
- Mona Lisa Overdrive (1988)
Set in a near-future world dominated by corporations and advanced technology, the trilogy explores themes of virtual reality, artificial intelligence, and genetic engineering and their societal impact.
The narrative spans 16 years, with each book telling a distinct story. The trilogy’s title refers to The Sprawl, a megalopolis along the East Coast of the United States.
When could the Neuromancer series be released?
Apple TV+ announced plans to adapt Gibson’s novel in February 2024, with production starting in 2025. While the filming schedule is unknown, we can estimate the series debut based on the storyline.
The plot takes characters from Chiba City, Japan, to a megalopolis on the US east coast, Istanbul, cyberspace, and two space stations orbiting Earth. Considering the various locations and special effects required, post-production may take a while.
Based on the production timeline of similar series, we predict the Neuromancer series may premiere on Apple TV+ in the summer or fall of 2026 at the earliest.
The first season will consist of ten episodes.
Who is the crew behind the Neuromancer series?
The series is created by Graham Roland and JD Dillard, with William Gibson as an executive producer. Other producers include David Ellison, Dana Goldberg, Matt Thunell, and more.
Roland will also serve as showrunner, while Dillard will direct the pilot episode.
What will the plot of the Neuromancer series be?
The first season is based on the novel of the same name, following a young hacker named Case who gets involved in a heist orchestrated by a cybernetically enhanced assassin named Molly. The story delves into espionage and virtual reality, showcasing the cyberpunk world of Gibson’s creation.
Considered a seminal work in the cyberpunk genre, Neuromancer’s themes have influenced modern technology and culture. The series is expected to bring a contemporary twist to the storyline.
If the first season is successful, Apple may adapt the remaining volumes of the Sprawl Trilogy.
Who is in the cast of the Neuromancer series?
The main characters, Case and Molly, are portrayed by Callum Turner and Briana Middleton respectively. The cast also includes Mark Strong, Joseph Lee, Clémence Poésy, Peter Sarsgaard, Dane DeHaan, Max Irons, André De Shields, Marc Menchaca, and Emma Laird.