Warner Bros. is delving into the world of space operas with its new acquisition of the rights to Alien Legion, a popular sci-fi comic originally published by Marvel Comics. With plans to develop a homegrown franchise in the galaxy far, far away, the studio has enlisted Tim Miller, known for directing Deadpool and Terminator: Dark Fate, to take the helm.
The comic series, co-created by Carl Potts, debuted in 1983 as part of Marvel’s creator-owned imprint, Epic Comics. Alien Legion is known as the longest-running title under the line and continued its success even after being moved to other publishers in the 21st century. Alongside Potts, Allan Zelenetz and Frank Cirocco contributed to the co-creation of this intergalactic saga.
Described as a “French Foreign Legion in space,” Alien Legion follows the stories of an intergalactic peace-keeping force operating within the Galactic Union, a government system striving to be a democratic melting pot. The series explores themes of prejudice, bad intentions, and the struggles of well-intentioned idealists. The diverse array of characters includes Sarigar, a captain from a serpent-like species; Juger Grimrod, a brutish and hostile figure; Meico, a gentle four-armed medic; and Torie Montroc, a human enlisted in the Legion to receive his inheritance.
Although Hollywood has expressed interest in adapting the comics for over two decades, the project has faced numerous challenges in finding the right platform and budget for realization. Previous attempts at adaptation include setups at Dimension Films and Disney, with well-known writers like David Benioff and Derek Haas and Michael Brandt attached to the scripts. However, the rights eventually reverted to Potts, who continued to seek the ideal home for his beloved creation.
For Warner Bros. Pictures Group co-chair and CEO Michael De Luca, the acquisition of the Alien Legion rights was a long-time pursuit, stemming from his genuine appreciation for the comic series. Collaborating with co-chair and CEO Tim Miller, who had also long admired Alien Legion, the studio is finally bringing the space opera to life on the big screen.
Tim Miller, represented by WME and Johnson Shapiro, is currently focusing on his upcoming project, the revenge flick Best Served Cold starring Rebecca Ferguson. Meanwhile, producers Don Murphy and Susan Montford have expanded their portfolio with multi-medium adaptations such as a new take on the classic sci-fi title Buck Rogers and a reboot of the cult horror movie Faces of Death.
With the stage set for the development of the Alien Legion franchise, the future of space operas in cinema looks promising. The team behind this ambitious endeavor is determined to bring the beloved characters and captivating narratives of Alien Legion to audiences in a grand, spectacular fashion. As the production progresses, fans can anticipate an epic space adventure that will transport them to a universe filled with captivating intergalactic tales.