The project to adapt Neil Gaiman’s *The Graveyard Book* into a film has been put on hold. Originally published in 2008, this young adult novel narrates the tale of Nobody Owens, an outcast who, after narrowly escaping the vicious murder of his family, is raised by supernatural entities in a graveyard. Despite being one of Gaiman’s most acclaimed works, it has yet to be adapted for the screen, unlike his other well-known books such as *Coraline* and *The Sandman*.
According to IndieWire, Disney has currently halted the development of *The Graveyard Book* movie. Sources indicate that multiple factors have contributed to this decision, one of which involves allegations against Gaiman himself. When the project was paused, Disney had already established production offices for the film.
Impact of Allegations Against Gaiman on Future Projects
#### Upcoming Adaptations of Gaiman’s Works
Earlier this summer, Tortoise Media released a podcast series featuring several women who accused Gaiman of sexual assault. Five women in total have made such allegations, four of whom were identified in the Tortoise Media podcast, with the fifth speaking out in July on the *Am I Broken: Survivor Stories* podcast. Among the accusations, two women allege that Gaiman coerced them into non-consensual sexual acts during otherwise consensual relationships. These claims, which Gaiman has denied, allegedly took place several years apart.
The lack of substantial progress on the adaptation is not promising for its resumption anytime soon.
Before the project was halted, Marc Foster had been slated to direct *The Graveyard Book* movie. Foster is known for directing films such as *Christopher Robin*, *White Bird*, and the American remake of *A Man Called Ove* (retitled *A Man Called Otto* and starring Tom Hanks). Despite Foster’s involvement, the film had yet to cast any actors. The ongoing development issues, persisting for over a decade, suggest that the adaptation may not be revived for some time.
The decision to pause *The Graveyard Book* could have repercussions for other forthcoming productions based on Gaiman’s works. Several projects are in development, including a Henry Selick adaptation of *The Ocean at the End of the Lane*. While the team behind *The Graveyard Book* insists that multiple factors led to the movie’s cancellation beyond the allegations, it is plausible that other projects might seek to distance themselves from Gaiman. The situation will become clearer as more details emerge regarding the alleged assaults and the progress of other adaptations.
Source: IndieWire
