A fantasy novel by Alan Moore is getting a television adaptation. An influential author, known for his seminal comic book work, Moore is behind titles such as Watchmen, V for Vendetta, Batman: The Killing Joke, From Hell, and Swamp Thing. However, he has been known to have a somewhat oppositional view of adaptations, including his own, and has argued that his aim is to illuminate what comic books are capable of as a storytelling medium rather than translating it into a different format. But he is significantly more positive about an adaptation that’s just been announced.
Deadline confirms that The Great When, a new fantasy novel by Moore, is getting a TV adaptation. The production company Playground landed the rights to The Great When, a fantasy graphic novel that was published by Bloomsbury on October 1. It’s the first in Moore’s planned five-volume Long London series of epic fantasy novels, which Playground plans to adapt into a series that spans several seasons. Moore reacted to the news in the statement below:
For the first time in my career, I’m genuinely excited and enthusiastic about a work of mine…one that I own, and believe could work marvelously in a different medium…being adapted for the screen. In Playground, I feel that I’ve connected with people who respect both me and the narrative and are receptive to such input as I can offer. And, given Playground’s track record, I have little doubt that this will be anything short of spectacular. It’s taken me some time, but I think at last I’m ready for my closeup.
David Stern, the Joint Joint Managing Director of Playground, who played a big role in securing the rights, also shared a statement:
Alan Moore’s The Great When is an extraordinary work of imagination, combining elements of history, fantasy, and mystery to create a world that is both epic and intimate, strange yet deeply human. This project represents the type of storytelling we at Playground are passionate about, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to be working with Alan, one of the most influential writers of our time, to bring this remarkable work to television.
What An Adaptation Of Great When Would Mean
It Follows A Young Clerk
The Great When unfolds in post-WWII London following a character named Dennis Knuckleyard. A young clerk, employed by a second-hand bookshop, Dennis comes across a novel that simply does not exist. It is a fictitious book from The Great When, which is described as a hellish and imaginary realm that is essentially the supernatural counterpart to Dennis’ city. The young clerk soon faces the choice of returning the book or getting killed, putting him through various events that could endanger both cities forever.
Related 10 Essential Works To Read By Alan Moore, Ranked British comics writer Alan Moore is a household name thanks to the many cinematic adaptions of his comics and graphic novels. Here are his best works.
The adaptation represents a pivot for Playground, which is notable for its focus on British period dramas. The production company is behind Wolf Hall, which is back for season 2. Colin Callender‘s production outfit will now shift its focus to a potential franchise, with the rare advantage of having Moore’s blessing to move forward with an adaptation.
Our Take On The Great When
It’s A Notable Change In Tone
Close
Alan Moore doesn’t mince words when it comes to adaptations of his work, as well as notable criticisms of the current state of the comic book industry and superhero movies. It is understandable, considering his conflict with DC Comics and the long disagreements between the two sides. Perhaps the most significant part of The Great When adaptation, coming from an author who has not always given his stamp of approval, is that he’s embraced it.
Source: Deadline