With the ongoing head to head clash that is Marvel vs DC, it’s easy to forget that there are more than two comic book companies. Of course, with the massive resources of Disney and Warner Bros. behind them, it’s not surprising that all their iconic characters are getting the big screen treatment. But we shouldn’t forget the many awesome comics by smaller companies and lesser known artists. There are plenty of them that are worth their own big screen adaption. And one of them is; say hi, ‘Battling Boy’.
Anyone who’s heard of Battling Boy, please raise your hand…
The titular Battling Boy is a twelve year old demigod who travels the city of Arcopolis to undergo his rite of passage. Arcopolis, sadly, is not the hottest real estate right now. This is due to a minor infestation of horrific monsters that steal children away. Worse still, the only person able to stand up to the monsters, the Batmanesque hero Haggard West has just died.
Fortunately for Arcopolis, Battling Boy is eager to jump into action and save the day. He may only be twelve, but he’s also a demigod and those guys are handy to have on your side.
Battling Boy is written by Paul Pope, whose other work includes the mini-series, Batman Year: 100. The film adaption of Battling Boy will be directed by Patrick Osborne. This will be his Feature directorial debut, having been an animator on Tangled, Wreck-It Ralph and Big Hero 6.
However, Osborne is not entirely new to the directing gig. If his name strikes you as slightly familiar, then you probably watched the animated short Feast, before Big Hero 6.
And before you ask, I didn’t cry one tear when I watched Feast (shut up, I’m not crying, you’re crying).
