Ellie Wood, the producer behind Netflix film The Dig, has struck a development deal with Banijay UK and is working on an adaptation of Barbara Pym’s ‘Excellent Women’ novels.

The contract is the continuation of a first-look agreement that began in 2019 between Clearwood Films and Banijay Rights, the distribution division of Banijay Entertainment. Clearwood projects will still be distributed by Banijay Rights. The initial development project is the purchase of the rights to Excellent Women by Barbara Pym, which is widely regarded as the author’s best-selling book. Additional Pym novels may be developed.

In addition to central Banijay U.K. capabilities including finance, legal, and business affairs, Clearwood Films will have access to financing to develop concepts and treatments. After receiving approval, Clearwood may choose to co-produce with Banijay U.K. businesses.

Patrick Holland, CEO of Banijay U.K., said: “Ellie is a brilliant producer with an established reputation for creating standout, high-quality drama. Banijay Rights have had a successful first look deal in place with Clearwood, working with Ellie on projects including Stonehouse, and we are delighted to be backing her vision.”

Wood added: “I’m thrilled to be working with Patrick and continuing Clearwood Films’ partnership with the wider Banijay family. I’m particularly excited to be developing the novels of one of my favourite authors, the inimitable Barbara Pym. Just as Jilly Cooper’s Rivals gave us a ‘Cooperverse’, I look forward to creating a ‘Pymverse’ and bringing this iconic author’s uniquely British tales of comic observation and unrequited love not only to her legions of fans but also to a wider TV audience.”

Wood is the executive producer of Film4’s adaptation of Deborah Levy’s novel Hot Milk, which starred Emma Mackey, Fiona Shaw, and Vicky Krieps and just debuted at the Berlinale. Other upcoming projects from Clearwood Films include an as-yet-unannounced single scripted project for a linear broadcaster.