Apple TV‘s upcoming fantasy movie is a long-awaited addition to the genre, and it also functions as a heist thriller — giving it a broad appeal compared to other offerings. Some of the best fantasy movies are packed with action, and that’s likely to be the case for Apple’s current undertaking. Given that it’s based on books with cinematic fight sequences and masterfully crafted magic systems, there’s little doubt it will be a visual spectacle throughout.
The plot itself also sets viewers up for a thrilling ride, as it centers on a heist-like narrative that involves overthrowing a tyrannical ruler. If that sounds exciting, it’s a project to keep on your radar. Paired with Sanderson’s world-building and lore, the genre mash-up could result in Apple TV’s strongest fantasy title to date. It might also produce one of the most distinct upcoming fantasy movies overall.
Apple TV’s ‘Mistborn’ Movie Is Part Epic Fantasy, Part Heist Thriller
Apple TV acquired the rights to adapt Brandon Sanderson’s Cosmere, and it’s starting with the long-awaited Mistborn movie. Given Sanderson’s involvement — he’s penning the screenplay — and the usual quality of Apple’s projects, it’s probable the film will be as epic as the Mistborn books. For those unfamiliar, they follow a young girl with the ability to consume metals and turn them into extraordinary powers. Because of this, she gets wrapped up in the antics of a thieving crew that’s attempting to overthrow a corrupt and oppressive empire.
Their plan to take down Mistborn‘s villain makes the story as much of a heist as a fantasy adventure. It features the staples of the former category, with its characters getting the gang together, taking on individual roles based on their skills, and planning recon missions and break-ins. These elements give the first Mistborn novel a strong pace and numerous hooks. Done well on-screen, they’ll ensure its adaptation is one of the most unique in years.
‘Mistborn’ Is Poised to Be One of the Most Distinct New Additions to the Genre
Apple TV’s Mistborn movie has all the ingredients to be a standout in the fantasy category, as there are few projects like it currently available on-screen. Although there are numerous fantasy heist books — not enough, if you’re asking me — that blend hasn’t really made the jump to film. Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves is one of the recent examples that comes to mind, but the lack of prominence is surprising given the popularity of more grounded heist thrillers.
Of course, the gap does give the Mistborn movie an advantage, setting it apart from competitors. Its metal-based power system, which is one of the strongest examples of hard magic, also lends itself to that endeavor. With such strengths, it’s easy to imagine Sanderson’s adaptation getting enough traction to spawn takes on its two sequels. And it bodes well for the Cosmere overall, as Apple TV has so much untapped potential in the interconnected fantasy universe.
- Producers
-
Brandon Sanderson
- Franchise(s)
-
Mistborn
