David Fincher’s films are so dark and unforgiving that it sometimes comes as a surprise when he reminds us all that he’s got a sense of humour. But today’s news that he’s agreed to produce a CG animated film of Eric Powell’s comic book, The Goon, should serve as definitive proof of his lighter side.
For the Dark Horse comic book, which features the titular thug acting as a Mob enforcer in a totally demented film-noirville crammed with zombies, ghosts, ape-men and mad scientists, is an off-the-wall delight. A movie version should certainly stand apart from the usual comic book movie crowd (much as Hellboy II – another Dark Horse character – is doing this summer).
The movie will see Fincher team up with Dark Horse Entertainment and the animation house, Blur Studios, while Powell will write the screenplay. It’s very early days yet, and there’s no studio or director attached yet. We’re not sure if Fincher is going to direct it himself, but we know that Frank Darabont, for example, is a huge fan of The Goon, so don’t be too surprised if Mr. Shawshank dips his toes into the waters of animation.
More as we get it.