Disney Invests in ‘Impossible Creatures’ by Oxford Professor Katherine Rundell
Walt Disney Studios has successfully acquired the film rights to the fantasy series “Impossible Creatures,” penned by renowned British author Katherine Rundell. The deal, valued in the seven figures, positions Disney to adapt the first two books in the series into screenplays.
About “Impossible Creatures”
“Impossible Creatures” has quickly emerged as a best-selling phenomenon, rivaling iconic series like “Harry Potter” and “The Hunger Games.” It is set in the intriguing Gilmouria Archipelago and features a human boy named Christopher. During a holiday with his grandfather in the Scottish Highlands, Christopher discovers a hidden entry to a magical world inhabited by extraordinary creatures. He soon meets Mal, a girl from this realm, and together, they work to save these creatures from a decline in their magical essence.
Katherine Rundell’s Achievements
- First children’s author since J.K. Rowling to top both U.K. and U.S. children’s book charts.
- More than 4 million copies of her books sold globally.
- Awarded “Author of the Year” and “Children’s Book of the Year” at The British Book Awards in 2024.
- Signed two seven-figure publishing agreements with Bloomsbury and Knopf.
- Originally intended to write a trilogy, now expanded to a five-book saga.
The Disney Deal
Disney’s acquisition comes after a competitive auction that included contenders such as Warner Bros and Netflix. Key figures involved in the negotiation included David Greenbaum, President of Disney Live Action, alongside other executives like Daria Cercek and Clare Reeth. The collaboration includes a first-look deal for Rundell’s future literary projects.
Bob Iger, Disney’s CEO, expressed excitement about the potential of “Impossible Creatures,” stating that the vibrant world envisioned by Rundell aligns perfectly with Disney’s storytelling ethos. Disney executives emphasized Rundell’s capability in crafting immersive narratives, making this partnership essential for bringing the series to life.
Creative Team Behind the Adaption
Rundell will collaborate closely with her creative partner, Charles Collier, who runs Impossible Films based in London. The team boasts a strong background, including producers from notable films such as “Paddington 2” and “Wonka.” This collaboration indicates Disney’s shift toward original storytelling rather than merely adapting animated works.
Future Prospects
Rundell’s perspective on the partnership reflects her enthusiasm for creating a stunning cinematic universe. “It’s a privilege to write screenplays and develop these films together,” she stated. The ambition is to develop the Gilmouria world into a captivating series of films, aiming to entertain families around the globe.
This strategic move by Disney showcases their commitment to expanding their portfolio with original IPs. With the combination of Rundell’s imaginative storytelling and Disney’s extensive production capabilities, “Impossible Creatures” is set to become a significant new franchise in the entertainment landscape.
