Jim Henson Co. is launching development on a trio of literary properties — “The Boggart” by novelist Susan Cooper (“The Dark is Rising”), “The Doubtful Guest” by Edward Gorey and the fantasy adventure trilogy “Monster Blood Tattoo” by D.M. Cornish.
Variety says Henson’s Creature Shop, the company’s visual and f/x division, will bring work on the characters in each film using a blend of CGI and animatronics. Producing duties will be handled by co-CEOs Lisa Henson and Brian Henson along with senior VP Jason Lust.
“The Boggart,” originally published in 1993, centers on a family from Toronto inheriting a Scottish castle with a gleeful spirit who’s been playing tricks on residents for generations. It will be developed as a live action family feature with Brian Henson (Muppet Treasure Island, Muppet Christmas Carol) directing.
“The Doubtful Guest,” which debuted in 1957, revolves around acreature that shows up at a family-owned bed & breakfast. It’s the furthest along of the three projects with Brad Peyton (Evelyn: The Cutest Evil Dead Girl) directing and Matthew Huffman writing the screenplay.
“Monster Blood Tattoo” is a series of three books, “Foundling,” “Lamplighter” and a third untitled novel, set in the world of the Half Continent, a magical Victorian realm where an orphaned boy embarks on a perilous quest to become an apprentice to a line of monster bounty hunters. No writer or director is attached; Henson Co. hasn’t decided how many features it will adapt from the trilogy.
