What's Happening?
Genndy Tartakovsky's animated 'Conan' series is currently in development at Prime Video, with Cartoon Network Studios producing. This project, which will adapt Robert E. Howard's 'Queen of the Black Coast,' marks almost two decades since Tartakovsky first
pitched the idea in 2008. The series is expected to feature his signature brutal, near-wordless style, similar to his work on 'Primal.' In related news, Titan Comics is releasing 'Conan: Tides of the Tyrant-King,' a four-issue run that brings back the villain Thulsa Doom, known from the 1982 'Conan the Barbarian' film. This comic series, written by Jim Zub with art by Jesús Merino, is part of a broader effort to rebuild the Conan franchise across various media. The first issue is set to release on September 23rd, following a free preview issue released on Free Comic Book Day.
Why It's Important?
The development of Genndy Tartakovsky's 'Conan' animated series is significant for the animation industry and fans of the 'Conan' franchise. Tartakovsky's distinctive visual style and storytelling approach, previously seen in critically acclaimed works like 'Samurai Jack' and 'Primal,' could bring a fresh and impactful interpretation to the classic barbarian character. This project, alongside new comic book releases, indicates a concerted effort to revitalize the 'Conan' brand, potentially attracting new audiences while satisfying long-time fans. The long gestation period of the animated series highlights the challenges and persistence often required to bring ambitious creative visions to fruition in the entertainment industry. The simultaneous release of new comic content further diversifies the franchise's offerings, aiming to create a comprehensive and interconnected 'Howardverse' that expands beyond Conan himself.
What's Next?
While no release date has been announced for Genndy Tartakovsky's animated 'Conan' series, its development is ongoing. Fans can anticipate further updates on its production and potential release on Prime Video. In the interim, Titan Comics will continue to expand the 'Conan' universe with new publications. The 'Conan: Tides of the Tyrant-King' comic series will launch on September 23rd, with subsequent issues released monthly. A collected paperback edition will also be available for pre-order. Additionally, there are discussions about a live-action 'King Conan' project featuring Arnold Schwarzenegger, though it also lacks a release date. These multiple projects suggest a strategic, multi-platform approach to re-establish 'Conan' as a prominent figure in fantasy entertainment, with potential for further adaptations and expansions across different media.
Beyond the Headlines
The revival of the 'Conan' franchise through both animation and comics reflects a broader trend in the entertainment industry of re-imagining classic intellectual properties for contemporary audiences. Genndy Tartakovsky's involvement, known for his unique blend of action and minimalist dialogue, could push the boundaries of adult animation, offering a more mature and artistically driven take on the barbarian genre. The decision to incorporate Thulsa Doom, a character popularized by the 1982 film rather than Robert E. Howard's original Conan stories, highlights the influence of cinematic adaptations on source material and the ongoing effort to reconcile different iterations of a character. This multi-faceted approach to franchise building, encompassing various media, aims to create a cohesive narrative universe that appeals to diverse fan bases and ensures the longevity of the 'Conan' legacy.
