Comic sites have been buzzing with speculation concerning the Most Excellent Neil Gaiman’s next project for Marvel. Neil has dropped little hints about the project, a re-working of the legendary Jack Kirby’s series, the Eternals, on his current US tour as he promotes his new novel Anansi Boys (his first humorous book since Good Omens with Terry Pratchett and, I can tell you, an utter delight to read). The details have been scant but Marvel has finally posted a statement on their web site. It doesn’t add a huge amount to the small bits already circulating on the web I think, but here it is:
“Fan favourite. Award-winner. Literary icon. Maker of gods? Neil Gaiman has known many titles in his illustrious career, and 2006 finds him back at the House of Ideas to explore a group of gods created by a King! Next year, Neil will be taking on the famous creations of Jack “the King” Kirby known as The Eternals! We sat down with editor Nick Lowe to find out more about the project. “Neil is just fascinated with the idea of immortals,” says Lowe. “What does it mean to be thousands of years old? What kind of life is that? It is going to be some heavy stuff.” And Nick should know, having worked with Gaiman on the wildly popular 1602 mini series, which won the Quills Award for Best Graphic Novel last night. The full awards show can be seen on October 22, 2005, on NBC.
A lover of Marvel’s rich history, Gaiman relishes the chance to take on characters near and dear to many fans. “When Joe Quesada and Neil finally decided on The Eternals, Neil immersed himself in Jack’s story,” explains Lowe. “Jack came up with some really amazing and imaginative stuff. When you see what Neil is bringing to the table and how it works with what Jack laid out, you will lose your socks.” But that’s not the only thing that will have fans excited, Lowe promises. “When you see who the artist is on The Eternals, you will scream with delight. This team is unbeatable.” Sounds like it!”
Thu, Oct 13, 2005
Comics and cartoons