Benedict Cumberbatch to Reunite With 'Patrick Melrose' Director for 'The 39 Steps' TV With Edward Berger serving behind the lens, the 'Doctor Strange' star will tackle an updated version of John Buchan's thriller novel in a limited series for Netflix. Apr 10, 2021 AceShowbiz - Actor Benedict Cumberbatch is reuniting with director Edward Berger for a TV adaptation of thriller novel "The Thirty-Nine Steps". The " Doctor Strange" star will tackle an updated version of the John Buchan book in a limited series for Netflix, with his " Patrick Melrose" director Berger behind the camera. The 44-year-old actor and the German helmer will also team up to executive produce the series. The two takes on the duty alongside the former's SunnyMarch partner Adam Ackland, Chapter One Pictures' Sophie Gardiner, Syndicate Entertainment's Cliff Roberts and Anonymous Content's Keith Redmon.