CBS Is Rebooting 'Twilight Zone' As An Interactive 'Choose-Your-Own-Adventure' Series
"The Twilight Zone" has always been known as a science fiction series that brought viewers to alternate dimensions and realities. In its upcoming reboot by the CBS network, it is getting an alternate treatment – it will be a cross a between a TV show and a video game, according to a report in The Wrap.
CBS is said to be working with a start-up company, Interlude, which is also known for the work it has done in interactive music videos. Among their first projects is a revival of Bob Dylan's "Like a Rolling Stone" music video which allowed viewers to choose among 16 channels with different actors and reality-TV stars, each lip-syncing Dylan's iconic song. Since then, the company has branched out to making interactive online videos for various entertainment clients.
According to another report in Wired, "Bioshock" director Ken Levine has been named as the writer and director of the pilot episode. The game director described what he called his next "side" project with the "Twilight Zone" as one that will "explore the spaces between movies and games." He also cited that he "grew up with" Twilight Zone as evidenced in the way he makes his games.
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It is yet unclear how the interactive element will play in the series, but CBS and Interlude have both described it as something where viewers can "step in and become part of the story." The Wrap cited that if one looks at Interlude's previous projects, this new project may incorporate "live-action storytelling with opportunities for the viewer to choose the direction of the narrative."
Additional details that were shared indicate that while the reboot will honor the original series' approach, the twist of letting the viewer "change and adapt the story based on what he or she feels" will also figure prominently. The good thing about the new approach also allows viewers to have a different viewing experience each time simply by watching it again.
