Classic Comics Adapted for Animation by Underneath the Umbrella Productions

Underneath the Umbrella Productions, a new venture formed by Goodman Pictures and director Tim Johnson, has acquired the rights to adapt the iconic comic strips “B.C.” and “Wizard of Id,” along with the fantasy novel “The Book of the Dun Cow.” The adaptations will be animated projects, with Johnson set to co-write, produce, and direct the animated version of “Wizard of Id,” marking the inaugural film from this production company.

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“Wizard of Id,” created in 1964 by Johnny Hart and illustrator Brant Parker, follows a group of characters in a medieval kingdom and has been featured in over 1,000 newspapers worldwide, winning the National Cartoonists Society’s Best Humor Strip award five times. “B.C.,” launched in 1958, depicts the lives of cavemen and their interactions with anthropomorphic animals and dinosaurs in a prehistoric setting. Both comic strips have been managed by Hart's family, with Patti Hart overseeing her father's legacy. “The Book of the Dun Cow,” written by Walter Wangerin Jr. and published in 1978, presents a narrative set in a world devoid of humans, featuring an all-animal cast facing existential challenges.

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Tim Johnson, known for directing animated films such as “Antz” and “Over the Hedge,” expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “This is a dream project.” He emphasized the potential of “Wizard of Id” to resonate with multiple generations due to its rich characters and humor. Joe Goodman, CEO of Goodman Pictures, highlighted the cultural significance of these works, noting their enduring popularity and the goal to create films that families will cherish for years.

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In a statement, Johnson remarked on his personal connection to the comics, saying, “As a young boy, I learned to draw by tracing the original Johnny Hart and Brant Parker comic strip.” He believes that the humor and heart present in these stories make them a natural fit for animation. Patti Hart praised the adaptations, expressing excitement about introducing these timeless characters to new audiences while honoring their legacy.

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While the project has garnered enthusiasm, there are concerns regarding the adaptation of beloved classics. Critics may argue that translating such iconic works into animation could risk losing the essence that made them popular. However, no specific dissenting voices were noted in the sources.

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Underneath the Umbrella Productions plans to debut a live-action slate in the near future, expanding its portfolio beyond animated adaptations. The success of these projects could pave the way for further adaptations of classic literature and comics.

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• “This is a dream project,” — Tim Johnson, Director

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• “When something has been read daily by millions of people for decades across the world, that’s not just popularity, that’s cultural permanence. These properties have already proven their staying power. Our goal is to translate that into films that families return to for generations.” — Joe Goodman, CEO of Goodman Pictures

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• “It’s exciting to see them positioned in a way that can introduce these characters to new audiences while honoring what made them endure,” — Patti Hart, Legacy Overseer

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