The plug has been pulled on the ‘Book of Enchantment’ series that was in development for the Disney+ streaming service. Creative reasons regarding a dark tone and direction lead to this decision, as well as a cost of nine figures on the first season alone.
The series was an adaptation of Serena Valentino’s ‘Villains’ book series, which features some of Disney’s most popular villains. The plan was to craft an epic universe that weaves classic Disney tales told in a brand new way.
Michael Seitzman (‘Code Black,’ ‘Quantico’) had been developing the project since 2018. He wrote the pilot and the series bible, and was going to serve as showrunner. The writers room was open for 13 weeks until the cancellation was made.
Filming was looking to begin May 2020, at Ardmore Studios in Dublin, Ireland. Producers also went about scouting locations, and creating expensive pay-or-play staffing deals.
However, ABC Studios continues to own the IP, while Disney+ still has interest in the property. Thus, there could be a new take on the IP in the future. Perhaps animation would be a better medium?
Meanwhile, Disney+ will launch on November 12th, with shows including ‘The Mandalorian,’ ‘High School Musical: The Musical: The Series,’ and ‘The World According to Jeff Goldblum.’
Source: Deadline