In this drama set in 2002, Daniel Radcliffe plays Sam Houser, “the British genius behind one of the most lucractive video games ever”. Houser is one of the co-founders of Rockstar Games, the company which launched the Grand Theft Auto series – AKA “the fastest-selling entertainment title in history”. He’s pitched against Bill Paxton as Christian lawyer Jack Thompson, who lead the campaign against the controversial game and its graphic depictions of violence and sex.
In May, Rockstar was reported to be launching launching action against the BBC for trademark infringement. The BBC press release says: “This drama is for an adult audience and has not been authorised by the producers of Grand Theft Auto. Rather, it is based on court documents and interviews with many of those involved in the real events behind this compelling story.”
The drama is written by James Wood (Rev, Ambassadors), directed by Owen Harris (Kill Your Friends, Black Mirror, Holy Flying Circus) and produced by Jim Spencer (Pride, All Stars, Monsters).
The Gamechangers, BBC2, 9pm, 15 September
