Sci-Fi Fantasy Franchise Launches Major Adaptation to Challenge Game of Thrones
Brandon Sanderson’s expansive Cosmere universe is set to make its screen debut. AppleTV has secured rights to adapt Sanderson’s interconnected fantasy works for both film and television. This move comes after a competitive bidding process, with the author retaining a highly unusual amount of creative control over the adaptations.
Brandon Sanderson and His Cosmere Universe
Brandon Sanderson is an acclaimed author from Lincoln, Nebraska. He has published 71 novels, selling over 50 million copies globally since his first book, Elantris, released in 2005. Sanderson is known for crowdfunding his projects, raising over $100 million USD to support his literary endeavors.
His prominent role in the fantasy genre includes completing Robert Jordan’s iconic Wheel of Time series after the author’s passing, successfully concluding it with three best-selling novels. Sanderson’s vast Cosmere universe consists of various fantasy worlds, each governed by different magical rules.
Major Adaptations in Development
AppleTV has ambitious plans for Sanderson’s works, with a focus on two primary adaptations:
- Mistborn: A film adaptation of a series that features a group of heroes fighting against a tyrannical empire in a world filled with ash.
- The Stormlight Archive: A potential television series exploring a world plagued by magical storms.
Sanderson’s Unique Creative Control
What sets these adaptations apart is Sanderson’s unprecedented level of oversight. He will write, produce, and consult on the adaptations while maintaining final approval. Such authority is unusual and gives Sanderson a distinct edge compared to other successful fantasy creators, like George R.R. Martin and J.K. Rowling.
Apple’s Commitment to Fantasy Adaptations
This latest venture adds to AppleTV’s expanding catalog of notable science fiction and fantasy adaptations. The platform is already home to:
- Foundation: Based on Isaac Asimov’s works.
- Silo: An adaptation of Hugh Howey’s bestselling novel.
- Murderbot: Inspired by Martha Wells’ series.
- Neuromancer: A bold take on William Gibson’s cyberpunk classic.
With the Cosmere adaptations on the horizon, AppleTV aims to challenge other major fantasy franchises, including the global phenomenon Game of Thrones.
As development continues, fans of Sanderson’s works are eager to see how the unique narrative style of the Cosmere will translate to the screen. Filmogaz.com will provide updates as more information becomes available.