The newAlan Mooreadaptation has got Moore’s seal of approval already, which is huge news, as he has hated nearly all adaptations of his work for 35 years. Alan Moore is one of the comic book world’s greatest titans, rivaling the likes of Stan Lee for influence. Moore wrote some ofthe world’s best comic books, but often distanced himself from the movies and TV shows made from them. However, one new adaptation seems surprisingly satisfactory by Moore’s standards. On closer inspection, this reveals how Moore adaptations should have been made in the first place.

Much ofAlan Moore’s best workhas been adapted for the screen in the past, fromWatchmentoV For Vendetta. While Moore proclaimed himself proud of the lasting impact ofV For Vendetta, referring to the widely used V masks in protest movements, he derided the movie. He toldThe New York Times, “I’ve read the screenplay… it’s rubbish.” Moore also claimed theWatchmenTV show was “embarrassing.“Moore is a tough crowd, making the upcomingThe Great When: A Long London Noveladaptation unique and tantalizing, in that Moore has actually expressed his support.

ALAN MOORE THE GREAT WHEN

The Great When Is The First Adaptation Alan Moore Actually Approves Of (& That’s Huge)

Alan Moore Is Excited About The Great When Adaptation

British period drama specialistPlayground is set to adapt Alan Moore’sThe Great Whennovel, and Alan Moore is uncharacteristically excited about it. Moore released the firstLong Londonnovel in October 2024, which is the first of a quintet. This prose release is to be adapted into a multi-season TV series, and AlanMoore said “I have little doubt that this will be anything short of spectacular”(Deadline). This uncommon approval from Moore marks a turning point in his career and a big step forward. Fans could soon enjoy an Alan Moore adaptation that meets Moore’s standards.

Why Alan Moore Is Positive About The Great When After Disowning Past Adaptations

Moore Feels He May Be Able To Input Into The Great When Adaptation

Alan Moore criticized former adaptations for diverging from his work too much, but it looks likeThe Great Whenis positioned well to avoid this issue.Moore criticized theWatchmenTV show for having “nothing to do with [his] work.” (GQ).Moore is notoriously unfavorable toward unfaithful adaptationsof his publications, which is fair enough. Moore hasn’t felt that his work was fairly represented. However, Moore commented that he has managed to establish a positive working relationship with Playground, which seems to have been missing between Moore and studios with former adaptations.

Moore struggled to keep a hold of rights to his work throughout his career, resulting in his deep critiques of the industry.

Moore’s key comment on his relationship with Playground was, “I’ve connected with people who respect… me and the narrative and are receptive to such input as I can offer” (Deadline). This goes to show thatMoore has never felt like he has been given due rights or input regarding adaptationsof his work. Indeed, he hasn’t - Moore struggled to keep a hold of rights to his work throughout his career, resulting in his deep critiques of the industry. But Moore trusts that Playground will honor his opinion. Finally,Alan Moorefans can look forward to a Moore-approved adaptation.