Few mythologies in the comic universe have been as revered, or untouched, as Watchmen (written by Alan Moore and illustrated by Dave Gibbons). The 1986 graphic novel, which continues to stand as the best-selling graphic novel of all time, helped inspire what many have called a ‘watershed moment’ in the history of the comic industry.
Since that time, DC has left the universe of Watchmen alone; the fans have always set it apart, and Moore himself has insisted on its singularity.
However, just this week, The Hollywood Reporter spoke with Babylon 5 creator J. Michael Straczynski about his involvement in DC’s comic book mini-series, Before Watchmen, which will serve as a prequel to the original work.
“Anyone who sets foot into the Watchmen universe and isn’t just a little nervous should be given a few days of electroshock therapy,” Straczynski told The Hollywood Reporter. “I’ve always considered Watchmen to be one of the best graphic novels ever written, and when it came out back in 1986 I was as blown away as everyone else. Just masterful.”
He continued, “The thing is, though, writers are always being asked to play in amazing universes created by other people, and you can’t let that scare you. If Darren Aronofsky can plan for a Noah’s Ark movie, Steven Spielberg can consider tackling the story of Moses, and Mel Gibson can do another Bible movie, I think it’s safe to say that the Watchmen universe is fair game, provided that you approach the work with clean hands and good intent.”
Before Watchmen is slated to begin telling brand new backstories about its well-known characters, such as Night-Owl and Doctor Manhattan, this summer.
Photograph courtesy of DC Comics
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