‘Game of Thrones’ Author Sells Superhero Movie to SyFy Films

From The Wrap

George R.R. Martin, the author behind HBO’s “Game of Thrones,” has sold another one of his projects to Hollywood.

SyFy Films, a theatrical division run under the auspices of NBC Universal, has purchased the movie rights to “Wild Cards,” a superhero anthology edited by Martin.

The anthology of 22 books dates back to 1987 and depicts a world in which an alien virus has been unleashed in New York, killing almost everyone put in contact with it.

Of the survivors, most have been rendered deformed while a few have gained superpowers.

This is the first acquisition for SyFy Films, which launched in December 2010.

“Wild Cards presents a terrific franchise opportunity given the volume of material from this compelling fantasy series,” Gregory Noveck, VP of Production at SyFy Film, said in a statement. “We’re thrilled to have the opportunity to develop a film based on the anthology’s supernatural heroes, and to be working with such talented and visionary writers as George R.R. Martin and Melissa Snodgrass.”

“Wild Cards” was created by a group of science fiction authors, but Martin took a leadership role in editing it and contributing. Melinda Snodgrass, who will write the script, has also been a contributor to the series, which is still producing new volumes thanks to the efforts of a bevy of writers.

The Hollywood Reporter first reported the deal.