As part of every studio’s attempt to maximize the profits of their existing properties, 20th Century Fox will make another attempt to turn the graphic novel series The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen into a film franchise.
The graphic novel by Alan Moore (Watchmen) and artist Kevin O’Neill (Marshal Law) brings together popular literary characters in victorian-era England who protect the realm. The team includes Mina Harker from Dracula, Captain Nemo from 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, Alan Quatermain from King Solomon’s Mines, and Doctor Jekyll from Doctor Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. The team is often referred to as “The Victorian Avengers.”
Fox previously attempted to adapt the series in 2003 with a film starring Sean Connery (The Hunt for the Red October), Shane West (A Walk to Remember), and Peta Wilson (Superman Returns). The film was a critical and financial failure and forced Fox to cancel their planned sequel. Connery retired from acting shortly after that movie. Fox also tried to develop the property into a TV series, though the pilot episode never made it to the screen.
Moore’s work has been adapted for a number of films including Watchmen, V for Vendetta, and From Hell; the latter of which was also made by Fox. It will be interesting to see if Fox consults with Moore on the project, as he has been outspoken about his disappointment with the film adaptations of his work.
No director or writer has been announced at this time. We’ll have more on the project as it develops.
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