AMC to start shooting new drama series

NEW YORK, May 3 (UPI) -- AMC says it plans to start production on its latest original series, "Hell on Wheels," this month in Canada.

The contemporary western, to be shot in Calgary, Alberta, is about former confederate soldier Cullen Bohannon, portrayed by Anson Mount, whose "quest for vengeance has led him to the Union Pacific Railroads westward construction of the first transcontinental railroad," the cable network said in a synopsis.

"Hell on Wheels" is created, written and executive produced by Joe and Tony Gayton. It is slated to premiere on AMC in late 2011.

"AMC's commitment to the western is long-standing, and the genre is an important part of our brand and history as a channel," Charlie Collier, president of AMC, said in a statement. "In 'Hell on Wheels,' AMC is creating another epic and enduring American story."

The cast also includes Common, Dominique McElligott, Colm Meaney, Ben Esler, Philip Burke and Eddie Spears.