Eastern promise from ITV

We’re headed way out east for ITV’s newest drama, as they have announced an adaptation of JG Farrell’s novel, The Singapore Grip.

The storyline focuses on the Blackett family, whose life of luxury in Singapore during the Second World War is disrupted by decisions made by the father Walter. We’re told it’s an “epic” tale and has been adapted for the small screen by Oscarwinner Christopher Hampton, left, who wrote screenplays for Atonement and Dangerous Liaisons. Shooting starts in the Far East in autumn with the lead actors still to be announced. ITV head of Drama Polly Hill said: “The Singapore Grip is a portrait of a society in decline as they cling to a world that is slowly crumbling.”