The Stage

More4 line-up features Bush assasination drama

Published Thursday 31 August 2006 at 12:45 by Liz Thomas

More4 is set to court more controversy more political dramas about the British and US governments, including one which sees George W Bush assassinated.

Death of a President is a retrospective docu-drama which starts with the fictional assassination of Bush and mixes CGI graphics and archive footage with ‘interviews’ with those involved in the aftermath.

Peter Dale, head of More4, admitted the piece might offend some people but the aim was to explore the effect such an event might have on America and global foreign policies. Sources at Channel 4 told The Stage that while a number of different agencies are under suspicion for the murder, the programme ends with a twist.

Robert Lindsay reprises his role as Tony Blair in another new drama commissioned by the digital channel, in a humorous take on what the fate of the prime minister may be once he leaves office. The Trial of Tony Blair has been penned by Alistair Beaton, who wrote A Very Social Secretary.

He said: “I gather Mr Blair is very concerned about his place in history. This film is my idea of where that place might be. Whether it’s fiction or prediction remains to be seen.”

Dale said that the broadcaster was investing more in fewer, high impact dramas that would help define the channel and attract audiences.

Harold Pinter’s play Celebration has been adapted for television and stars James Bolam, Colin Firth, Sophie Okenedo and Penelope Wilton. It has been directed by the award-winning John Crowley.

Documentary maker Nick Broomfield has also created a new drama, Ghosts, inspired by the tragedy of the Chiens cockle-pickers who drowned in Morecambe Bay in 2004.

After the success of Sven: The Coach, His Cash and His Lovers, Alison Jackson’s new project for More4 is her spoof Review of the Year. Expect send-ups of John Prescott, Paul and Heather McCartney and World Cup WAGS.

Michael Howard and Charles Kennedy are also on screens fronting a new list show - 30 Greatest Political Comedies - an exclusive poll of MPs.