James Wan may direct adaptation of his own graphic novel, Malignant Man

Last Updated on August 2, 2021

After taking over FAST AND FURIOUS 7 following the departure of Justin Lin, James Wan made a statement that he wanted to branch out of horror movies and direct other genres. But, with his strength in supernatural stories, why not play to that strength for a comic book movie. And, better yet, why not make one based on a series you are already very familiar with?

Deadline reports that 20th Century Fox has purchased the rights to comic book MALIGNANT MAN, created by Wan, and is looking at him to potential direct the film as well. MALIGNANT MAN was published as a graphic novel three years ago by Boom Comics.

Malignant Man focuses on Alan Gates, a cancer patient with a terminal diagnosis who is resigned to his fate until he discovers that his tumor is actually a mysterious parasite. Granted a second lease on life and incredible, otherworldly powers, Alan must fight against an evil army buried beneath society’s skin, all the while unlocking the secrets of his forgotten past.

As far as comic book premises go, this one is unique compared to a lot of adaptations we have seen in recent years. Reading that synopsis immediately made me think of WOLVERINE crossed with SPAWN which in all honesty sounds pretty badass. There doesn’t seem to be a timetable for MALIGNANT MAN to come to the big screen, but I would anticipate that Fox will want to make it sooner rather than later while superhero movies are all the rage.

James Wan has built a pretty solid filmography in recent years. After being pigeonholed with the SAW franchise, Wan went on to helm the INSIDIOUS movies and the acclaimed THE CONJURING. FAST AND FURIOUS 7 will be his first non-genre test and there is little chance that movie will fail. Here’s hoping he proves up to the challenge.