Hot on the heels of Hunger Games mania, Warner Brothers has announced plans to pursue a dystopian-based franchise of their own with the Fourth Realm Trilogy. Deadline reports that the studio has acquired the rights to the elusive John Twelve Hawkes' novels with plans to begin development on the first, The Traveler right away. Known only by his curious pen name, the author has emerged from the shadows to release this statement about the project:
“I’m so pleased that the trilogy is at Warner Bros, a studio whose history of otherworldly storytelling is so indelible and whose vision for the Fourth Realm Trilogy is so inspiring.”
The bestselling Fourth Realm Trilogy books are set in a not-so-distant future in a parallel universe where much of human history has been manipulated by a secret organization known as the Tabula (or Brethren as they call themselves). Through intimidation of politicians and the threat of ever-present surveillance by a master web of cameras worldwide, the Tabula influences and manipulates the world at large. Humanity's only hope for salvation comes from two uniquely skilled groups who work together to topple the Tabula: The Travelers, who can cross over into alternate realities, and the Harlequins who protect them.
The Traveler centers on Maya, a vivacious young Harlequin whose left the life behind after killing two Yakuza members in a gruesome battle. But this Brit's attempt to live an ordinary life is abandoned when her father's dying wish demands she return to the fold she was groomed for. So, Maya joins with the last American Harlequin, Shepherd, to defend the last two living Travelers against the slippery forces of the Tabula.
It's a curious property. And with the novels being published in 25 languages, selling more than 1.5 million copies, there's clearly an eager fan base for the aspiring film franchise. From here, it'll be interesting to see what kind of money and talent Warner Brothers is willing to sink into the depths of the Fourth Realm. Weigh in with your hopes in comments.
