10 Great Comic Books That Could Launch a Movie Franchise

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Over the last 15 years, I’ve come to realize that comic book movies are here to stay, and Marvel and DC aren’t the only ones holding the spotlight. There’s a wealth of lesser-known comics just waiting for their turn in the limelight. Some have teased adaptation before, while others are practically unknown even to diehard fans like me.

As a passionate advocate for comic books, I can’t help but notice the vast, untouched treasure troves they represent – from gritty vigilantes inspired by pulp fiction, to chilling horror comedies, and dystopian sci-fi masterpieces. There are ten extraordinary comic book series out there that are primed and ready to anchor their very own movie franchises. Here’s my list of the top picks:

1. “Vigilante City” – A gritty, pulp-inspired tale of a lone hero fighting against an unjust system.
2. “Twisted Laughter” – A hilarious yet terrifying horror comedy that will leave you laughing and squirming in your seat.
3. “Dystopian Dawn” – A dystopian sci-fi epic filled with action, suspense, and deep moral questions.
4. “The Crimson Chronicles” – An action-packed superhero series with a unique twist on traditional heroism.
5. “Grim Tales” – A collection of dark fairy tales that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
6. “Echoes from the Void” – A mind-bending sci-fi mystery that delves into the very nature of reality itself.
7. “The Iron Kingdom” – An epic fantasy series set in a world of magic, politics, and adventure.
8. “Fractured Future” – A post-apocalyptic tale of survival and redemption in a world ravaged by war.
9. “Shadows Unveiled” – A supernatural thriller that explores the darker side of humanity.
10. “The Last Frontier” – A western adventure set in a lawless land, where justice is a rare commodity.

1) The Goon (Dark Horse Comics)

Eric Powell’s creation, The Goon, uniquely combines supernatural terror, humorous slapstick, and gritty gangster narratives. The main character, a massive mob enforcer, engages in fierce battles against zombies, cultists, and monsters under the control of the enigmatic Zombie Priest. Amidst the mayhem, he continues to make witty remarks and navigate speakeasy power struggles.

The comic is visually breathtaking and courageously bold, moving seamlessly between gruesome scenes and tenderly emotional moments. If you’re unfamiliar with The Goon, but appreciate the artistic styles of Hellboy or Sin City comics, you’ll find a quick connection with its raw aesthetic and elaborate mythology right away.

As a follower, I’m thrilled to share that an animated film is being actively developed at Netflix, with Tim Miller producing and Patrick Osborne directing. Despite some tentative whispers of a 2025 production date, “The Goon” project is very much in its formative stages. The gritty, vivid world created by Powell deserves its moment under the cinema spotlight, and with an appropriate R-rated touch, it could potentially become the next cult classic waiting to happen.

2) Savage Dragon (Image Comics)

For years overlooked for adaptation but long-standing among Image Comics’ pioneering series, Erik Larsen’s “Savage Dragon” continues to offer a unique blend of superhero action and punk rock flavor. This green-skinned, mohawked powerhouse named Dragon, suffering from amnesia, chooses to join the Chicago Police Department in order to combat the evil supervillains terrorizing the city.

Beyond being merely a series about monster combat and police work, Savage Dragon is a dynamic title that has consistently evolved over its long history. Unlike static characters, those in the series grow older in sync with real life. Moreover, the storylines adapt to reflect current social and political climates, mirroring the world outside. As the story progresses, Dragon’s narrative transitions to his son Malcolm, providing a smooth continuation for potential future adaptations.

This franchise delivers intense action, visually captivating styles, and strong emotional depth. It’s ideal for those seeking a blend of “The Boys” and “RoboCop,” with hints of “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” intertwined, making it a unique combination in one package.

3) Descender (Image Comics)

The captivating science fiction series, Descender, was penned by Jeff Lemire and illustrated by Dustin Nguyen. In this comic book’s world, androids are forbidden following the destruction of entire planets by a perplexing race of massive robots known as “Harvesters.” The narrative revolves around TIM-21, an AI with a link to the Harvesters, who transforms into the most sought-after fugitive across the galaxy. As bounty hunters, alien factions, and robots clash, Descender evolves from a space opera into a tale of survival and delves into profound questions about what it truly means to be human.

In the midst of TIM-21’s pure innocence stands a striking contrast to the frosty military atmosphere and political turmoil that surround him. Combined with Nguyen’s watercolor illustrations, the series evokes the sensation of an animated film with the visual style reminiscent of both the epic battle scenes in War of Rohirrim and the introspective mood of Blade Runner. This is a universe that has the potential to expand into a trilogy or even more, particularly since its follow-up series, Ascender, is already laying the foundation.

4) Black Science (Image Comics)

Rick Remender and Matteo Scalera’s “Black Science” can be described as a blend of “Sliders” and “Inception”, infused with an extra dose of insanity. The story revolves around Grant McKay, a past member of the Anarchist League of Scientists, who constructs a device called the Pillar, capable of traveling between different dimensions. However, when the Pillar malfunctions, McKay and his crew find themselves stranded in the Eververse, a tumultuous multiverse filled with oppressive frog-people, psychic fungi, and hostile medieval tech-worlds.

In the vibrant world of Black Science, Grant’s struggle to reconnect with his kids, correct past errors, and discover purpose amidst the swirling chaos, infuses the story with emotional depth amidst the trippy visuals and thought-provoking themes. This intriguing comic series could easily become a cinematic trip, blending high-octane action sequences with poignant family dynamics. As multi-universe tales gain traction in popular culture, Black Science promises to pack a punch and deliver a grittier, more ominous version of what we’ve experienced thus far.

5) Nailbiter (Image Comics)

Imagine if your hometown was the birthplace of sixteen brutal serial killers – that’s the chilling foundation for the horror-mystery series “Nailbiter“, penned by Joshua Williamson and Mike Henderson. The narrative unfolds in Buckaroo, Oregon, where a former FBI agent, disgraced by past failures, goes back to this small town to explore why it has birthed so many notorious murderers. Edward Charles Warren, known as Nailbiter, is one of the town’s most infamous killers, but he becomes an unexpected ally in uncovering Buckaroo’s dark and terrifying secret.

Imagine a mystery-thriller that blends elements of ‘Seven’, ‘Twin Peaks’, ‘Hannibal’, and ‘Dexter’. It’s the kind of tale that could span numerous films as the intrigue thickens, alliances shift, and the truth behind Buckaroo’s murderous factory is gradually revealed. The success of Nailbiter’s comic series, which was a sleeper hit, was followed by a sequel, ‘Nailbiter Returns’. The lore is already established, and it yearns for a cinematic adaptation that captures its dark, suspenseful atmosphere, gradually unfolding the story in a slow, tense manner.

6) Once & Future (BOOM! Studios)

In the realm of films, I find myself captivated by a fresh take on an ancient tale – “Once & Future.” As a fan of both King Arthur and the undead, this series is right up my alley! Penned by Kieron Gillen and illustrated by Dan Mora, it breathes new life into British folklore, merging classic legends with chilling horror and heart-pounding adventure. The result? A high-speed, monster-slaying extravaganza that’s not to be missed!

The narrative centers around Bridgette McGuire, a former monster slayer who is forced out of retirement when King Arthur returns as a formidable undead tyrant. Alongside her grandson Duncan, an unassuming scholar unexpectedly dragged into combat, they expose a plot steeped in myth and bloodline. As the lines between legend and reality blur, they confront a growing number of supernatural dangers – from knights with vampiric traits, to twisted fae beings, and a resurrected Merlin with malevolent intentions. The story is filled with quick-moving action, dark wit, and an intricate, expanding mythos that promises numerous sequels.

In a style reminiscent of “The Mummy”, “Hellboy”, and “Supernatural”, “Once & Future” has the potential to initiate an action-horror franchise that reinvigorates the Arthurian legend with chilling, gory innovation. It’s intelligent, frightening, and fashionable enough to distinguish itself in a competitive fantasy market.

7) Lazarus (Image Comics)

Greg Rucka and Michael Lark’s comic book series, titled “Lazarus“, envisions a future where power has shifted from nations to a select few wealthy families who wield all authority. Each of these powerful clans possesses a genetically-enhanced enforcer, referred to as a “Lazarus”. The narrative focuses on Forever Carlyle, the Lazarus of her family, as she wrestles with her allegiance when hidden truths and acts of deception come to light.

The dystopian atmosphere seems unsettlingly realistic, and the show combines elements that suggest it could become an acclaimed sci-fi franchise with espionage, social conflict, moral complexity, and realistic world development. Forever is an engaging character who serves as both a ruthless fighter and a troubled spirit. Following her transformation from faithful weapon to self-aware rebel would provide viewers with a hero they could wholeheartedly support throughout several films.

Originally, a television series was being planned for production, but it ultimately didn’t take off. A film studio could potentially revive this project.

8) Black Hole (Kitchen Sink Press/Fantagraphics)

Charles Burns’ “Black Hole” is a chilling masterpiece of body-horror that’s equally steeped in psychology as it is in grotesquery. This graphic novel, set in the 1970s, narrates the tale of a cluster of teenagers in Seattle who fall victim to a mysterious sexually transmitted disease leading to peculiar physical transformations. The horror components serve as a symbolic representation of adolescent estrangement, sexual maturation, and emotional distress. The art is fantastical yet rooted in human reality.

Multiple filmmakers have considered bringing “Black Hole” to life on screen, notably David Fincher and Alexandre Aja, yet it still remains unadapted. The source material is dense, haunting, and personal, making it an ideal candidate for a high-end horror production like A24 could deliver. With the right atmosphere, “Black Hole” might become the successor to “Hereditary“, offering a strange, lingering fear that continues to resonate even after the final credits have played.

9) East of West (Image Comics)

Jonathan Hickman and Nick Dragotta’s “East of West” is a genre-bending, extraordinary work. Structured as an apocalyptic Western that combines dystopian science fiction with Biblical prophecy, “East of West” reimagines American history into something completely distinct.

In an alternate version of America where the Civil War had unfolded differently and disaster looms on the horizon, the narrative revolves around Death, who’s strayed from the fellowship of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, to safeguard his kin and thwart a prophecy from manifesting.

This fantastical universe exhibits a vastness reminiscent of Tolkien’s work, filled with diverse nations, faiths, and alliances competing for supremacy. The characters possess mythical qualities yet remain strikingly human. Topics like the struggle between destiny and individual choice, recurring conflict, and corrupt authority resonate profoundly.

10) Saga (Image Comics)

In the event that Hollywood is seeking the next groundbreaking series that could redefine genres, it’s clear that Saga should be at the top of their list. This captivating tale was conceived by Brian K. Vaughan and Fiona Staples, weaving together elements of Star Wars and Shakespeare in a grand saga. The narrative revolves around two combatants from opposing alien races, Alana and Marko, as they strive to safeguard their daughter Hazel amidst a universe that is determined to eliminate them.

This series, Saga, is a captivating blend of intense action, humorous moments, poignant emotional scenes, and an unyielding creativity that never ceases to amaze. From robots with television heads to ghostly babysitters, cosmic bounty hunters, and beyond, each issue of Saga continually enlarges the universe in daring, breathtaking ways. However, what truly sets Saga apart is its heart. Fundamentally, it’s a story about family – the agony, the bliss, the insurmountable sacrifices.

This popular comic has amassed a considerable fanbase and received widespread praise, often being called one of the top comic books from the past ten years. What it needs now is a courageous studio to make the leap and produce it.

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2025-07-17 00:16