Douglas Adams is best known for writing the Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, but another one of his cult classic novels, Dirk Gently’s Holistic Agency, is getting a TV adaptation. Now, the trailer that was screened for fans at a Comic-Con panel in San Diego earlier this year has arrived online, and with it, a first look at Lord of the Rings star Elijah Wood in action.
Described by Adams as a "thumping good detective-ghost-horror-who dunnit-time travel-romantic-musical-comedy-epic," Dirk Gently’s is a comedic detective novel that has its roots in Doctor Who serials that Adams wrote. It follows a peculiar detective, Dirk Gently, as he solves unusual crimes, along with the help of Wood's character, Todd. The stories use events from Adams’ time at college, which he exaggerates into situations that the characters often find themselves in.
The book relies on its absurdist comedy for the paranormal aspects to make sense, but most of it is satirical and ridiculous, not unlike Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, as Adams fans are sure to notice. The series, which is being adapted for BBC America, was created by Hollywood scribe Max Landis, who will act as an executive producer and lead writer on the show.
Following the success of Adams’ Hitchhiker series, BBC Radio ordered a six-part adaptation that was broadcast in 2007. Another six-part series based on the book’s sequel, The Long Dark Tea-Time of the Soul, was broadcast on BBC Radio in 2008. The BBC hasn’t said whether it’s interested in pursuing the lesser known sequel as another series at this time.
Dirk Gently’s Holistic Agency premieres on BBC America on Oct. 22 at 9 p.m. ET. For those outside of the United States, Netflix will also carry the series.
