Full Breakdown
Disney Acquires Rights to Katherine Rundell's "Impossible Creatures" Series
10/10/2025, 9:42:15 AM
Overview of the Acquisition
Walt Disney Studios has officially acquired the film rights to Katherine Rundell's "Impossible Creatures," a fantasy book series that has garnered comparisons to the "Harry Potter" franchise. The announcement was made on October 7, 2025, with Rundell set to adapt the first two books into screenplays. The series debuted in 2023 and quickly became a bestseller, making Rundell the first U.K. children's author since J.K. Rowling to achieve simultaneous No. 1 rankings on children's book charts in both the U.K. and the U.S.
Background on "Impossible Creatures"
The "Impossible Creatures" series is set in the fictional Glimouria Archipelago, where the story follows a young boy named Christopher who discovers a magical world while visiting his grandfather in the Scottish Highlands. The narrative introduces readers to a vibrant realm filled with fantastical creatures and a dark entity threatening its beauty. The series has sold over four million copies globally, with the first two books, "Impossible Creatures" and its sequel "The Poisoned King," selling over one million copies across 37 territories.
Key Figures in the Collaboration
Katherine Rundell, the author, expressed her excitement about collaborating with Disney, stating, “I’m absolutely thrilled to be linking arms with Disney. It’s a privilege to be writing these screenplays.” Disney CEO Bob Iger emphasized his immediate attraction to the story, noting, “When I read Impossible Creatures, I knew it belonged here at Disney.” Alan Bergman, Co-Chairman of Disney Entertainment, praised Rundell's creation as a “spectacular and immersive world” that aligns with Disney's storytelling tradition.
Future Development Plans
Disney's acquisition includes theatrical film and ancillary rights, and the studio is keen to develop a franchise around the series. Rundell is collaborating with her creative partner, Charles Collier, under her Impossible Films banner. While there is no director or cast attached yet, the studio is focused on allowing Rundell to complete her scripts before moving forward with production. The adaptation is expected to be a faithful representation of the books, with plans for a sprawling franchise that could include additional films and spin-offs.
Criticism & Opposition
While the excitement surrounding the adaptation is palpable, some industry observers note that Disney has struggled with fantasy adaptations in the past, citing the mixed success of "The Chronicles of Narnia" and the recent reboot of "Percy Jackson." Critics may question whether Disney can successfully launch a new fantasy franchise in a competitive market dominated by established series.
What's Next for "Impossible Creatures"
As Disney and Rundell navigate the early stages of development, fans can anticipate a theatrical release rather than a streaming debut. The timeline for the film's premiere remains uncertain, but the studio's commitment to a cinematic experience suggests a significant investment in bringing the world of Glimouria to life on the big screen. The success of the initial adaptations will likely influence the future direction of the franchise, which has the potential to become a major player in the fantasy film landscape.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I’m absolutely thrilled to be linking arms with Disney. It’s a privilege to be writing these screenplays and developing these first movies in the franchise together with Charles, my team at Impossible Films, and with the exceptional team at Disney,” — Katherine Rundell, Author
- “When I read Impossible Creatures, I knew it belonged here at Disney.” — Bob Iger, CEO of The Walt Disney Company
- “a perfect match for the Disney storytelling tradition.” — Alan Bergman, Co-Chairman, Disney Entertainment
