Legendary author Neil Gaiman has been writing books for over 40 years, penning future classics like American Gods, The Ocean at the End of the Lane, and the comic book series The Sandman. Considering his lorded status in the bookish community, it is no surprise that Gaiman’s works have found their way to the big and small screen. Throughout his illustrious career, Gaiman has also found himself working on some major projects outside his own library of novels, including Princess Mononoke, Doctor Who, and Babylon 5.
As part of a new column, I will be looking at the best adaptations from classic science-fiction and fantasy authors, kicking things off with the modern gothic icon, Neil Gaiman.
American Gods
Gaiman’s works have always been filled with references to, and creatures from, myths and legends across various cultures, and none more so than American Gods. The original novel, published in 2001, won dozens of literary awards including the Bram Stoker Award, the Hugo Award, and a Nebula Award. Now a hit series for Starz and nominated for two Emmys, American Gods follows ex-con Shadow Moon whose plans for a new life are turned upside down when he is caught in the middle of a war between the new and old gods. American Gods stars Ricky Whittle (Hollyoaks) as Shadow, alongside Emily Browning (A Series of Unfortunate Events) as his deceased – not a spoiler – partner and Ian McShane (John Wick) as the ominous Mr Wednesday.
Coraline
Widely considered as one of the creepiest children’s films of all time, Coraline infuses Gaiman’s love for the gothic with a fantasy every child had – disappearing to another world with cooler parents. Directed by Henry Sellick (The Nightmare Before Christmas), Coraline was nominated for Best Animated Feature at the 2010 Academy Awards. Coraline stars Dakota Fanning (War of the Worlds) in the titular role, as well as Teri Hatcher (The New Adventures of Superman), John Hodgkins (Arthur) and Keith David (The Thing). As well as its numerous accolades, Coraline also produced a worldwide fear of buttons around its time of release, watch the movie to understand why.
Good Omens
One of Gaiman’s first novels, and co-written with the late great Terry Pratchett, Good Omens follows the unlikely friendship of the angel Aziraphale (Michael Sheen) and the demon Crowley (David Tennant) as they try and prevent armageddon after losing the antichrist. Good Omens contains Gaiman and Pratchett’s signature style of British humour and features as much comedy as it does introspective questions about morality and religion. Good Omens also features a star-studded supporting cast including Jon Hamm (Mad Men), Benedict Cumberbatch (Doctor Strange), Mark Gatiss (Sherlock) and Frances McDormand (Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri).
Stardust
Starring a much younger Charlie Cox (Daredevil), Stardust follows Cox’s Tristan Thorn as he sets out to retrieve a fallen star after promising one to his beloved. Like most of Gaiman’s projects, Stardust has become a cult comfort watch, both for its use of the classic hero’s journey and for the many famous cameos found throughout the movie. Stardust features an incredible cast, including Claire Danes (Homeland), Ian McKellen (The Lord of the Rings), Sienna Miller (American Sniper), Ben Barnes (The Chronicles of Narnia), Mark Strong (Kingsman), Amy Addams (Arrival), Henry Cavill (The Witcher), Ricky Gervais (The Office), Rupert Everett (My Best Friend’s Wedding), David Kelly (Charlie and the Chocolate Factory), Robert DeNiro (Raging Bull) and Peter O’Toole (Lawrence of Arabia), to name a few.
The Sandman
Widely considered to be one of the greatest comic book series of all time – along with Watchmen – The Sandman follows Morpheus, the Lord of Dreams, as he looks to rebuild his realm and adapt to the world around him after being imprisoned by a cult for 100 years. The Sandman blends Gaiman’s love of mythology with the world of DC Comics as several famous characters, like Hellblazer, appear throughout this long-running epic. With Tom Sturridge (On The Road) in the titular role, The Sandman broke Netflix streaming records upon its release in 2022 and will likely do the same when its much-awaited second season releases sometime in 2024.
The 20 Best Science Fiction Movies of All Time: Enter a World Beyond Your Imagination
Get ready to explore galaxies far, far away and other realms beyond your imagination! Whether you’re a sci-fi nerd or just a major cinephile, we know you’re going to love these 20 best science-fiction movies of all time. From space battles to time travel, this list has it all. Grab your popcorn, sit back, and enjoy the greatest sci-fi films in this universe or any other.
The 20 Best Fantasy Movies of All Time: Enter a World Beyond Your Imagination
Get ready to be enchanted as we explore the realm of fantasy films! Immerse yourself in captivating worlds and epic adventures with my handpicked selection of the 20 greatest fantasy movies ever made. From Middle Earth’s mystical landscapes to The Green Mile’s emotional depths, this list promises to transport you to extraordinary realms.
The 20 Best History Movies of All Time: Relive the Past Through the Magic of Film
Calling all history buffs and movie lovers! Get ready for a cinematic time travel experience with our top 20 history movies. From Schindler’s List’s powerful Holocaust narrative to the groundbreaking Hamilton musical, these films will immerse you in the most significant moments of human history. Prepare for a historical adventure like no other- and you won’t even need to leave your couch!
