Starz is preparing to air its first original drama series, “Crash,” based on the Academy Award-winning film of the same name.

The 13-episode, one-hour series is being produced with Lionsgate. Key staffers from the film, including Paul Haggis, Bobby Moresco, Bob Yari, Don Cheadle, Mark R. Harris and Tom Nunan, are on board for the TV production.

“‘Crash’ introduced a whole range of fascinating characters and engrossing, intertwined stories that are ideally suited for developing into a TV series,” said Stephan Shelanski, executive VP of programming for Starz. “Starz is the premium channel for movies, so it’s appropriate that this best picture winner is providing the basis for our first dramatic series. The fact that key members of the film’s production team are involved will ensure that our series maintains the high level of talent and creativity captured in the film.”

Starz last week launched its first two original half-hour sitcoms, “Head Case” and “Hollywood Residential.”

Starz will have domestic distribution rights to the series, while Lionsgate retains international rights.