WEBTOON to Adapt "Something is Killing the Children" into Vertical Scroll Format

WEBTOON, a popular comic platform, is set to debut the adaptation of the acclaimed horror series "Something is Killing the Children," created by James Tynion IV and illustrated by Werther Dell’Edera. Originally launched in 2019, the series has garnered significant acclaim, winning three Eisner Awards and selling over five million copies. The adaptation will officially launch on April 20, 2024, in a vertical scroll format, which is characteristic of WEBTOON's presentation style.

Newsweek

"Something is Killing the Children" follows the story of Erica Slaughter, a monster hunter who travels to various towns to confront and eliminate monsters that prey on children. The narrative explores themes of disbelief, as the children’s accounts of the monsters are often dismissed by adults. The series has expanded into a broader universe known as the "Slaughterverse," which includes a spinoff titled "House of Slaughter" and a one-shot comic, "Enter the House of Slaughter."

Newsweek

In addition to the WEBTOON adaptation, "Something is Killing the Children" is set to receive both animation and live-action adaptations from Blumhouse, a studio known for its horror productions. Furthermore, Tynion has collaborated with horror novelist Kiersten White to create a prequel novel, scheduled for release in October 2026, which aims to delve deeper into the lore of the "Slaughterverse."

Newsweek

The adaptation of "Something is Killing the Children" into WEBTOON's format signifies a growing trend of integrating popular comic narratives into digital platforms, potentially reaching a wider audience. The success of the original series and its expansions into other media formats highlight the increasing intersection of comics and mainstream entertainment.

Newsweek

James Tynion IV, the creator of the series, expressed enthusiasm about the adaptation, stating that it allows for a new way to experience the story. The transition to WEBTOON's format is expected to attract both existing fans and new readers, expanding the series' reach.

Newsweek

While the adaptation has been largely welcomed, some critics have raised concerns about the challenges of translating the horror elements of the comic into a format that appeals to a broader audience. The effectiveness of the vertical scroll format in conveying the series' intense themes remains to be seen.

Newsweek

The adaptation of "Something is Killing the Children" into WEBTOON's vertical scroll format marks a significant development in the series' journey, promising to expand its narrative reach while maintaining its core themes of horror and resilience.

Newsweek