In a significant move for comic adaptation enthusiasts and crime storytelling aficionados, Prime Video has recently announced its series order for the adaptation of the critically acclaimed graphic novel ‘Criminal’. This intricately woven universe of crime tales is the brainchild of the legendary comic book team Ed Brubaker and Sean Phillips. With a legacy of producing compelling narratives that have garnered a vault of Eisner Awards, their partnership now translates onto screens as both creators take on executive production roles for the forthcoming series.
The series ‘Criminal’ emerges from a cauldron of praise and anticipation, carrying the prestige of the proverbial golden duo, Brubaker and Phillips. This duo is not new to success, having collaborated for over two decades, weaving spellbinding narratives in titles such as ‘The Fade Out’, ‘Kill or be Killed’, ‘Reckless’, ‘Pulp’, among others—all hits in their own right, with ‘Criminal’ standing as a flagship representation of their storytelling prowess.
“The most iconic team in the history of comics has given life to ‘Criminal’, a graphic novel that has won the hearts of many,” declared Nick Pepper, head of U.S. SVOD wholly owned development at Amazon MGM Studios. His enthusiasm is palpable as he continued, “I am certain that audiences will be drawn to the richness of these stories, and I am thrilled to be collaborating with Ed, Jordan, and the entire creative team as we bring this project to fruition on the screen.”
Ed Brubaker’s experience is not restricted to his original works alone. His pen has graced the pages of mainstream comics for both Marvel and DC, leaving an indelible mark with key story arcs on Batman, Catwoman, The Immortal Iron Fist, and Captain America. Notably, Brubaker is responsible for creating the well-received character the Winter Soldier. Stepping into the show’s universe with a dual role, Brubaker is set to be the co-showrunner and provides the script for the pilot episode.
His showrunning partner in crime, Jordan Harper, brings his own weighty portfolio of small-screen and literary success. Harper’s skillful storytelling has earned him accolades including the Edgar Award for Best First Novel for ‘She Rides Shotgun’—a story currently in the adaptation pipeline as a feature film starring Taron Egerton. His recent crime novel, ‘Everybody Knows’, stamped its mark in the literary world as it was listed among the best crime novels of the year by the New York Times.
The world of ‘Criminal’ is characterized by its complex characters and morally challenging plots, exploring the depths of human nature and the grim realities of crime. Its translation to a series format by Prime Video promises to open new doors for immersion into this rich narrative landscape.
As Prime Video undertakes the ambitious endeavor of adapting this multi-layered graphic novel series, anticipation builds among the legions of ‘Criminal’ fans and curious newcomers alike. The project is a promising addition to the ever-expanding genre of comic-based shows—a recognition of the seminal work by Brubaker and Phillips, and a testimony to the continually evolving relationship between comic art and cinematic storytelling.
With the revered source material, the creative minds behind it, and the support of a platform like Prime Video, the ‘Criminal’ series is poised to etch its name alongside other distinguished adaptations, as it aims to capture the essence of the graphic novel’s complex narrative and character dynamics. Audiences can only wait with bated breath as the production gears up, promising a journey through the shadows of crime that is as compelling as its literary origins.
