Neil Gaiman is one of the most famous writers of contemporary fantasy literature. His stories mix fantasy and magical realism in plots that range from drama to adventure, with touches of dark humor.
Many of his works have already been adapted, such as Sandman and Coraline. However, some works from his catalog are still waiting to shine on the screen.
We therefore highlight some works that deserve to be transformed into films or series; and we explain why they would be successful!
Gaiman’s works that deserve adaptation
6 works by Neil Gaiman that deserve to be turned into a film or series
Magic books
The comic series follows Timothy Hunter, an ordinary British teenager who discovers he has the potential to become the greatest wizard in the world. Guided by four mysterious wizards (representing different aspects of magic in the DC/Vertigo universe), Tim embarks on a journey to discover the possibilities and dangers of magic.
With a narrative that explores personal growth and the discovery of powers, Books of Magic has the potential to be a great fantasy saga. Additionally, there are parallels to Harry Potter (released years later), which has already established itself as a major pop culture franchise.
. The complexity of the magical universe and Tim’s evolution over the course of the story arcs would be better explored in a series.
Non-existent place
Richard Mayhew, an ordinary Londoner, is drawn into “London Below”, a dark and magical world hidden beneath modern London. She teams up with Door, a young runaway, and a cast of eccentric characters as she tries to get back to her normal life.
The visual and narrative richness of the work makes it a great option for fantasy fans. The vibrant world of “Low London”, with its unique inhabitants, would make an extraordinary setting in a major film production.
. Despite being just one book, the story of an alternate London could have multiple arcs and plots, given the rich setting for the adventures.
The ocean at the end of the route
The story follows a man who, after leaving a trail, returns to his hometown. There, he recalls fantastical events from his childhood, involving friendship with the mysterious Hempstock family, the lake that is an ocean, and ancient forces.
With a melancholic and magical tone, this work has the potential to transform into a poetic film with great visual impact.
The narrative is concise and exciting, perfect for telling in a feature film.
The truth is a cave in the black mountains
A mysterious dwarf hires a guide to take him to a legendary cave that supposedly contains a wish-granting treasure. However, the journey turns out to be darker and more complex than imagined.
The story was originally a short story, but Gaiman turned it into a picture book, with Eddie Campbell working on the art.
The narrative combines elements of a dark fairy tale and psychological drama, providing dense material for a visually stunning work. As already illustrated, Campbell’s style could be adapted to animation.
Snow, glass and apples
A dark retelling of Snow White, told from the stepmother’s point of view. In this version the “princess” is a dangerous creature, while the stepmother fights to protect the kingdom.
With the success of revisionist adaptations like Maleficent, Snow, Glass and Apples would captivate audiences by exploring subversive and morally ambiguous narratives.
The story is not extensive, but it is impactful and has the potential to be visually interesting, with a gothic and magical tone.
The cemetery book
Nobody “Bod” Owens is a boy raised by ghosts in a cemetery after his parents were murdered. The story follows his journey as he grows up among the dead and learns lessons about life and death.
With a magical and dark style, but with a touch of lightness characteristic of Gaiman, as in Coraline, the work deals with maturity and acceptance, with touches of humor and melancholy.
An animated adaptation would capture the dark and magical tone of the story. Disney has the rights to adapt the work, but the project is on hold.
The post 6 Neil Gaiman Works That Deserve to Become a Film or Series appeared first on Olhar Digital.
Source: Olhar Digital
Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.
