Iconic Comic Strips "B.C." and "Wizard of Id" Set for Animated Film Adaptation

Under the creative guidance of Goodman Pictures and director Tim Johnson, recently established production company, Underneath the Umbrella Productions, has secured the rights to turn the acclaimed comic strips "B.C." and "Wizard of Id", in addition to the revered fantasy novel "The Book of the Dun Cow", into animated movies. The directorial charge for the animated adaption of "Wizard of Id", the first film in this initiative, will be led by Johnson, who will also co-write and produce the project alongside Tom Astle.

"Wizard of Id", brought to life in 1964 by illustrator Johnny Hart, introduces us to an ensemble of characters residing in a fantastical medieval kingdom. This comic strip has graced over 1000 newspapers worldwide, earning the accolade of the National Cartoonists Society's best humor strip five times. "B.C.", another of Hart's creations, first appeared in 1958 as a daily comic strip, transporting readers to prehistoric times through the everyday lives of a group of cavemen and their anthropomorphic dinosaur companions. After nearly seven decades, Hart's family still oversees its production.

Continuing Johnny Hart's legacy is daughter Patti Hart of John Hart Studios, who relinquished the rights for "Wizard of Id" and "B.C." to Underneath the Umbrella. The rights to "The Book of the Dun Cow", a novel populated by a cast of animals in an alternative reality devoid of humanity, were acquired from Ruthanne M. Wangerin, trustee and widow of the author, Walter Wangerin Jr.

"This is a dream project," expressed an excited Johnson. "Similar to my experience directing 'Over The Hedge,' I believe the timeless humor and rich characters of 'Wizard' have the potential to resonate with audiences across generations and cultures. Collaborating with Tom Astle on this new venture is truly exhilarating.”

Joe Goodman, CEO of Goodman Pictures, reflected on the cultural longevity of these works, stating, "When something has been a daily part of millions of individuals' lives for decades worldwide, it’s more than just popularity; it’s a cultural institution. These stories have demonstrated their enduring appeal already. Our mission is to channel that into films that families will cherish for generations."