Starz just announced they’re adapting Miranda July’s novel “All Fours,” and my immediate reaction is a potent cocktail of intrigue and slight terror. If you’re unfamiliar with Miranda July, she’s… well, she’s Miranda July. She’s an artist, a filmmaker, a writer, a performer, a general purveyor of the wonderfully weird. Her work is quirky, unsettling, deeply personal, and often profoundly moving. It’s also not exactly what you’d call “mainstream.” Which makes Starz, a network known for, let’s say, bold programming choices, a surprisingly fitting home for this project.
The press release describes “All Fours” as “propulsive, sexy, and irreverent.” It’s about a woman having a mid-life… let’s call it an awakening. She goes on a journey of “self-discovery and sexual awakening.” Now, knowing Miranda July, this isn’t going to be your typical “Eat, Pray, Love” journey of self-discovery. This is going to be a journey that involves, I don’t know, talking to inanimate objects, unconventional relationships, and probably at least one scene that makes you squirm in your seat while simultaneously pondering the nature of existence.
The press release is, predictably, full of glowing praise. July herself says she had an “electric feeling” meeting with Starz. Kathryn Busby, President of Original Programming at Starz, calls the novel “magnificent” and promises “boundary-pushing programming.” Which, from Starz, is basically a guarantee. They’re not afraid of sex, violence, or general weirdness. They’re the network that gave us “Outlander,” “American Gods,” and “Spartacus,” after all. They’re not exactly known for their subtle, understated dramas.
The release also throws in a bunch of impressive accolades: “instant New York Times bestseller,” “Indie Bestseller List for 38 weeks,” “National Book Award Finalist,” “global phenomenon.” It’s the literary equivalent of name-dropping, designed to impress upon us the importance and prestige of this project. And, okay, I’ll admit it, I’m impressed. July’s work is critically acclaimed, and “All Fours” has clearly struck a chord with readers.
I’m cautiously optimistic. I’m a fan of July’s work. I appreciate her willingness to push boundaries, to explore the uncomfortable, to challenge conventional narratives. And I think Starz is a network that’s willing to take risks. They’re not afraid to let creators be… creative. Which, in this increasingly homogenized media landscape, is a rare and valuable thing.
