Originally a beast that haunted our nightmares, the werewolf nowadays is a horror media icon. We see it everywhere, from movies, television series, and cartoons to video games. It also appears in books like the bestselling Wereworld series by Curtis Jobling. The collective works follow a young, heroic werewolf attempting to topple a dictatorship. This tale now returns in the upcoming Wolf King animated series for Netflix. Shall we dive deeper into this show where lycanthropes rule the world?
Journey Into the Realms of Wereworld
Curtis Jobling, the renowned designer for Bob the Builder, wrote the Wereworld books. He also created two shows for BBC, Frankenstein’s Cat and Raa Raa the Noisy Lion. Despite his success in children’s media, Jobling’s true passion lies in horror and fantasy. This fascination drove him to write multiple young adult novels centered around the genres. Such titles include Haunt: Dead Scared and the Max Helsing: Monster Hunter series. Of course, Jobling’s roster of entertaining literature includes his award-winning werewolf-themed books.
Wereworld tells of a world inhabited by individuals able to transform into lycanthropic animals. Werelords led by the tyrannical King Leopold the Werelion oppress the people. However, the story follows Drew Ferran, a farmboy who discovers he’s a werewolf. He also learns he’s the rightful heir to the kingdom’s throne. King Leopold learns of Drew’s heritage and sends his followers after him. As he evades Leopold’s grasp, Drew gathers allies ready to topple the ruthless regime.
Netflix Brings New Adaptation, Wolf King
The Wereworld novels sold millions and captured the attention of countless readers. Fans of the Percy Jackson, Ranger’s Apprentice, and Redwall series especially were taken with them. Everyone loved the fast-paced storylines, captivating action, engaging hero, dark concepts, and coming-of-age themes. Their qualities led to reviewers labeling the collection as the tween-appropriate Game of Thrones. These aspects also helped the first book become shortlisted for the 2011 Waterstone Prize. With such fame, it was a matter of time until Wereworld received a visual adaptation.
Coming to Netflix is an animated series based on these renowned books titled Wolf King. Created by Lime Pictures, Jellyfish Pictures handles the show’s animation. Andrew Burrell and Celia Morgan are the writers, with Jobling as the lead writer. VFX artist Tom Brass, a title sequence and creative director with Jelly Pictures, will direct. Lastly, the cast includes actors like Ceallach Spellman, Nina Barker Francis, and Georgia Lock.
A trailer for Wolf King was released some time ago, giving everyone a sneak peek. It mainly showcased scenes of Drew facing various foes and transforming into his werewolf form. There was also a voiceover during the beginning to educate and captivate potential viewers. Nevertheless, this preview revealed the show will follow the basis of the books. And it appears the program will retell the entire book series within a single season. While concerning, Jobling’s involvement ensures the story shouldn’t suffer despite the possible compression.
Final Thoughts
I must admit that I’ve never heard of the Wereworld books until now. Yet, after learning about them, I’m intrigued by their story. I’m captivated by the idea of a werewolf being a hero and savior. That aspect is enough for me to check out this show once it premieres. Another thing that attracted me is the unique 3D animation style seen throughout the trailer. Wolf King makes a howling arrival on Netflix on March 20 this Thursday.
