Netflix examines US Anthrax attack

Netflix has ordered a feature-length documentary about the 2001 anthrax attacks on the US that triggered one of the largest ever FBI investigations from BBC Studios.

The Anthrax Attacks is directed by Dan Krauss, who was nominated for Oscars for his documentaries Extremis, about a palliative care specialist, and The Death of Kevin Carter, about the suicide of a South African photojournalist.

The doc tells the story of what happened after five people were killed and 17 fell ill in a biological attack that took place just a week after the September 11 terrorist attacks.

Combining interviews and scripted scenes based on FBI documents, it reveals the stories of investigators, survivors and the families of those who were infected.

In scripted scenes and to-camera monologues, Clark Gregg (Avengers, Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D) stars as the suspected perpetrator of the attacks, Dr Bruce Ivins.

The Anthrax Attacks is exec produced by Andrew Cohen and Dan Krauss from BBCS’ Science Unit.

Krauss said: “This was a sprawling and massively complex story, one that required an adventurous approach in our filmmaking. The team at BBC Studios was fearless in meeting the challenge head-on, attacking every obstacle with impressive skill and care. I couldn’t have asked for more capable partners on this journey.”

Cohen added: “Delving into the biggest investigation in FBI history is no simple task, but with an incredibly talented team of filmmakers lead by Dan Krauss and Sweta Vohra we’ve been able to create a powerful and provocative film that blends drama and documentary to reopen our understanding of one of the most shocking terrorist acts in US history.”

BBCS’ science unit has previously created Netflix’s Bafta-winning doc series The Surgeon’s Cut.

The doc will stream from 8 September.