Apple is further expanding its commitment to high-quality film and television productions. With a new deal, Apple has secured the rights to one of the largest, interconnected fantasy universes of our time: "Cosmere" by bestselling author Brandon Sanderson. This move clearly demonstrates Apple's long-term focus on major projects with franchise potential.
Brandon Sanderson has been a major figure in the international fantasy market for years. His books sell millions of copies, and his stories are considered complex, well-thought-out, yet accessible to a wide audience. The Cosmere universe connects numerous standalone novels and book series into a single, overarching world with shared rules, characters, and mythological backgrounds. For Apple, this deal means access to a vast amount of material that can be used for films and series for many years to come.
Apple acquires comprehensive Cosmere rights
As reported by The Hollywood Reporter, Apple has signed a comprehensive deal with Brandon Sanderson. The deal includes the film and television rights to several key works from the Cosmere universe. After discussions with various potential partners, Sanderson ultimately chose Apple. A decisive factor was the promise of exceptional creative control over all adaptations.
Apple is allowing Sanderson to actively participate in all Cosmere projects. He will be involved as a writer, producer, and consultant on all films and series based on his universe. This form of co-determination is unusual in Hollywood and is considered a key component of the agreement.
"Mistborn" as a planned film series
Among the most famous works in the Cosmere universe is the "Mistborn" book series. Current plans call for its adaptation into a film series. "Mistborn" is divided into several eras. The first three books are set in a dark, dystopian world ruled by a tyrannical empire. The story centers on a group of Allomancers – humans with the ability to consume metals and thereby wield magical powers. Together, they attempt to overthrow the existing regime.
The second installment of the Mistborn series significantly shifts in tone and setting. The story follows Wax and Wayne, two lawmen with magical abilities, in a technologically advanced world reminiscent of a blend of the Wild West and the industrial age. Magic, firearms, and detective work are all equally important elements.
A total of four eras are planned for "Mistborn." This would theoretically give Apple enough material for around a dozen films, making the project particularly attractive for building a long-term film franchise.
"The Stormlight Archive" as a series project
Besides "Mistborn," "The Stormlight Archive" also plays a central role in Apple's plans. This series is to be adapted for television. Currently, "The Stormlight Archive" comprises five extensive fantasy novels, each of which could provide enough material for several seasons of a series.
The story is a classic epic fantasy tale centered on the battle between good and evil. The Knights Radiant confront the Voidbringers, who threaten to conquer the world. Sanderson has planned a total of ten books for this series, which also provides Apple with long-term planning security.
A TV series based on "The Stormlight Archive" is already in an early stage of development.
Production by Blue Marble and close ties to Apple
Blue Marble will produce the planned Stormlight series. The studio is headed by Theresa Kang-Lowe, who previously produced the Apple series "Pachinko." Kang-Lowe has an exclusive contract with Apple, meaning Blue Marble will primarily develop content for the company.
This close connection between the studio and Apple suggests that Apple places great value on control, quality, and long-term collaboration.
Brandon Sanderson's economic background
Brandon Sanderson is not only a successful author, but also an entrepreneur. He has run some of the most successful Kickstarter campaigns of all time, raising nearly $100 million through direct sales of his books. This success underscores his strong connection with his readers and his independence from traditional publishing and production structures.
With Cosmere, Apple is laying the foundation for a long-term fantasy franchise
With the Cosmere deal, Apple secures one of the most extensive and popular fantasy universes of our time. The combination of a vast amount of material, clear long-term planning, and the active involvement of Brandon Sanderson himself creates ideal conditions for high-quality films and series with strong fan engagement. For Apple, Cosmere is not just a single project, but the foundation for a potential mega-franchise spanning many years. (Image: Apple)
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